On November 7, 2025, DeForest Chapel transformed into a royal palace as students, alumni, families, and community members filled the pews for one of Talladega College’s most treasured traditions: the Royal Court Coronation and Founders’ Week Convocation. The chapel glowed beneath warm lighting, the stage adorned with thrones, black-and-gold draping, elegant balloons, and tall vases brimming with red roses. The energy in the room was unmistakable—anticipation, pride, elegance, and HBCU tradition all woven together.
The program opened with stirring musical selections and electrifying dance performances, including a tribute from the beloved Dega Diamonds, who honored A Different World, this year’s overarching Homecoming theme. As the audience clapped, cheered, and swayed along, one moment loomed above all: the official coronation of the 90th Royal Court.
That night, Talladega celebrated its full court:
- Miss Freshman Avanna Clark & Mister Freshman Antonio Mason
- Miss Sophomore Gabrielle King & Mister Sophomore Lamahl Grant
- Miss Junior Shakayla Walkes & Mister Junior Don Jones
- Miss Senior Dhaenia Pinnock & Mister Senior Tre Simmons
- The 90th Mr. Talladega College, Malachi Reddick-Gwinn
- The 90th Miss Talladega College, Meadow Gillespie
This coronation stood apart—not just for its elevated production, emotional energy, or stunning décor, but because it marked a historic milestone for the institution: the crowning of the 90th Miss Talladega College, a legacy nearly a century in the making.
A Moment Meadow Had Been Preparing For
While coronations in the past carried hectic energy, Meadow approached her moment differently.
“This was the easiest event to prepare for,” she reflected. “This time, I told myself, ‘Meadow, soak this in.’ I wanted to be fully present.”
Even with her calm mindset, the perfectionist in her felt the weight of the evening. Her biggest challenge was stepping out of her own head—letting go of overthinking and allowing herself to enjoy the moment she had worked so hard to reach.
Emotions That Couldn’t Be Contained
As she stood behind the chapel doors, waiting for her cue, the emotions hit her all at once.
“I’ll never forget how nervous I felt before walking out,” Meadow shared. “The wave of emotion that passed over me walking down the chapel—I wanted to cry. It was overwhelming in the most beautiful way.”
In these moments, she leaned on the three people who centered her spirit:
Monét, her friend who has walked with her through every step;
Saffron, her sister;
and Kendraih, who soothed her nerves with affirmations while fixing her hair just minutes before go-time.
Their presence reminded her that she was not stepping into royalty alone—she was carrying her community with her.
What the Crown Means
For Meadow, Miss Talladega is far more than a title.
“Being crowned Miss Talladega symbolized resilience for me,” she said. “This position pulled me out of my comfort zone and brought negativity I didn’t expect. But even through all of that, I grew. I learned to show up—nervous, scared, voice shaking—but still show up.”
She carries the crown not as a mark of perfection, but as a testament to strength, growth, and unwavering authenticity.
Eyes Always Watching
One of the biggest surprises came after the coronation: the visibility.
“It shocked me how many people already knew who I was,” Meadow said. “Parents, alumni, community members… someone is always watching, even when you don’t realize it.”
With increased visibility comes increased responsibility—but also deeper connection.
Family, Community, and the People Who Hold Her Up
With her family living far away, having them present for such a monumental milestone meant the world.
“Community is everything to me,” she said. “Not everybody gets this experience, and to share it with them was a blessing.”
Her favorite moment of the entire ceremony?
Her speech.
“My emotions are how I connect,” Meadow shared. “Without the friends and family who hold me up, I wouldn’t be the Meadow standing here today.”
Beyond Glamour: The Real Work of Miss Talladega
Meadow is clear: the role is deeper than crowns, gowns, and photo ops.
“There’s so much behind the scenes,” she explained. “Dropping what you’re doing to help a student, showing up when you’re tired, extending yourself in ways people don’t always see. The crown and sash are beautiful, but the responsibility behind them is what matters.”
Miss Talladega is a servant-leader first—a heart for the student body, a voice for those who need one, and a bridge between community and campus.
Becoming the Woman She Was Meant to Be
Through the campaign, the challenges, the coronation, and the months leading up to the moment, Meadow evolved.
“It taught me not to take everything so personally,” she said. “I learned to walk with more intention, with confidence and poise. I know who I am now—and the power I carry.”
Meadow steps into her reign fully aware of the impact she will make—and the legacy she now represents.
Conclusion: A New Era of Royalty at Talladega College
As the 90th Miss Talladega College, Meadow Gillespie joins a lineage of trailblazing women who have shaped nearly a century of Talladega history. Her coronation was more than an event—it was a celebration of grace, resilience, and the spirit of an HBCU community that continues to uplift and inspire.
Talladega College now looks ahead with pride and anticipation, embracing a new chapter led by a queen whose authenticity, heart, and strength will undoubtedly leave a permanent mark. Meadow’s reign is not simply a continuation of tradition—it is the beginning of a new era defined by purpose, connection, and undeniable excellence.
