NC Central sophomore crowned Miss North Carolina 2024

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — A North Carolina Central University student will represent North Carolina at this Miss America Pageant.

Carrie Everett says she will spend the next year pushing more girls to compete for the title despite obstacles they may face to win the crown.  

“I was so shocked, and you could tell it on my face,” said Everett, her eyes sparkling with joy and surprise at the opportunity.  

The rising sophomore at N.C. Central, Everett is on the brink of realizing her dream. She will represent North Carolina on the Miss America stage in a few months, a dream she has nurtured and is now ready to turn into reality.  

She will spend the next year promoting her community service initiative, We Need Equity to Build Communities. 

“We are advocating for recruiting more girls from different backgrounds into this organization. I am advocating for wardrobe classes funding for accessibility in this organization,” said Everett.

Everett said she only had $40 in her pocket when she signed up to compete.

“You have to pay for gowns and the miscellaneous purchases, but my community surrounded me and backed me,” said Everett.

Everett is looking to pay it forward and encourage more girls to learn the game of competing on a budget with the goal of earning scholarship money. 

“Regardless of what you have in your pocket, you belong here, and your presence is necessary; therefore, I say ‘come on, and let’s do this’,” she said.

In addition to her scholarship, Everett won a car to travel the state this year. She was also awarded another $3,500 for winning preliminary talent, evening gown, vocal talent award, and rookie scholarship.

Everett is the fourth African American female crowned Miss North Carolina in the pageant’s 87-year history.