In a historic moment for Porter-Gaud School in #Charleston, #SouthCarolina, 17-year-old senior Amber Wilsondebriano shattered barriers by becoming the first Black #homecoming queen in the school's 156-year history. A proud co-founder of the school's Black Excellence Society, Wilsondebriano recognizes the importance of her achievement. "Being the first African American homecoming queen means that children get to look at me and see themselves in me," Wilsondebriano told ABC News. "It's so important that they see that representation and know that anything is attainable for them."
Founded as the Holy Communion #Church Institute in 1867, Porter-Gaud School transitioned to co-education in 1972, with the first homecoming queen crowned in the 1976-1977 school year. Nominees for the homecoming court are chosen by their peers based on character, leadership, and role modeling. The Head of School, DuBose Egleston, praised Wilsondebriano for embodying the school's mission and welcomed her positive influence in the community.
While Porter-Gaud remains predominantly white, Wilsondebriano emphasized that the institution provides equal opportunities for all students. In addition to her homecoming queen victory, she has actively contributed to the school's community by co-founding the Black Excellence Society, a platform for Black students to share their culture and identity.
With aspirations of writing children's books, modeling, acting, and a passion for painting, Wilsondebriano plans to attend the Savannah College of Art and Design in the fall of 2024. Looking back, she would tell her younger self, "Your Blackness is your pride."
Congratulations to Amber Wilsondebriano, as we wish her much success!
Link: ABC 7
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