UA Little Rock Student Competes for Miss Arkansas State Fair

A University of Arkansas at Little Rock mass communication student recently took the stage at the Miss Arkansas State Fair Pageant representing the community that helped shape her and hoping to inspire the next generation of young women.

Avana Ashley, a junior from Sheridan, competed after being crowned Miss Grant County, a title that means more to her than wearing a crown.

As a child, Ashley showed goats at the Grant County livestock show and remembers admiring the Miss Grant County titleholder as she presented awards to contestants. Now, Ashley hopes to be that same source of inspiration for young girls in her community.

“When my name was announced for it to be my turn to start my reign as Miss Grant County, the first thing that flowed through my mind were all of the young girls in my community now that were in the same shoes I was in 10 years ago,” Ashley said.

The Grant County pageant was Ashley’s first, making the state fair competition another opportunity to step outside her comfort zone. The Oct. 17 competition, held at Barton Coliseum in Little Rock, included a private interview, evening gown portion, onstage conversation, and onstage questions.

Ashley said the support she received from fellow contestants helped make the experience memorable.

“What stood out to me the most was how supportive and encouraging everyone was throughout the whole pageant,” Ashley said. “I was definitely nervous going into it since this was only my second pageant, but being surrounded by such sweet and uplifting girls made the experience so much better.”

Ashley is studying mass communication with an emphasis in mass media and a minor in digital marketing. Her interest in communications began during her senior year of high school, when she interned with Sheridan School District Communications Director Andy Mayberry. The experience sparked her passion for the field and inspired her to pursue a degree that allows her to explore her creativity.

Beyond the stage, Ashley said participating in pageants has also helped her build confidence on social media. For example, answering questions for the state fair pageant’s social media encouraged her to share more of her personality online.

She also credits her involvement at UA Little Rock with helping her develop the leadership and communication skills she brings to opportunities like pageantry.

Through organizations such as the Student Government Association, Student Activities Board, Chancellor’s Leadership Corps (CLC) Ambassadors, and Student Orientation Leaders, Ashley has gained experience serving as a mentor, leader and role model. She credits several university mentors with supporting her personal and professional growth. They include Leah Ford, communications, customer service and events manager; Dukeithius Paskel, communications, customer service and events assistant manager; Dr. Jeremy Ecke, dean of the College of Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences, and Education; Corrigan Revels, assistant director for student leadership and development and CLC coordinator; and Teresa Esparaza, CLC student success coach. She also recognizes her peers in the Student Government Association for their encouragement and support.

Paskel said her willingness to embrace new challenges reflects the qualities of a strong leader.

“Avana is a great example of what it means to be a leader. I believe leadership is about more than the positions you hold; it’s about the confidence you build, the way you carry yourself, and the positive impact you have on others,” Paskel said. “I’m excited to see the positive impact Avana will continue to make!” 

Ashley said her leadership experiences on campus have made a lasting impact on her confidence and personal growth.

“Being able to be a mentor, leader, and role model for others has granted so much growth within my communication skills and has strengthened my confidence on an extraordinary level,” Ashley said.

Outside of pageantry, Ashley has represented Grant County at fair events, attended the rodeo and presented awards to livestock show contestants. She is also passionate about supporting individuals and families impacted by cancer.

Through her initiative, Fuel the Fight, Ashley collected snacks, protein shakes and other nutritional items for patients receiving treatment at CARTI Cancer Center. She hopes her efforts encourage other young people to get involved in their communities and support those in need.

Balancing classes, campus organizations, pageant preparation, and community events has taught Ashley the importance of time management and giving herself grace when things become overwhelming.

For other young women interested in pageants or pursuing new opportunities, Ashley’s advice is simple: take the chance.

“Don’t let the fear of failing or worrying about what other people think stop you from trying something new,” Ashley said. “I know stepping outside of your comfort zone can be scary, but some of the best opportunities come from taking that first step.”