After more than three decades in the business of preparing young girls for womanhood through pageantry, Jean Bryant, founder and organizer of the Miss Black Teenage Pageant said she’s ready to hang up her crown.

“It’s been 36 years—three decades—and the program has achieved so much in that time span. I feel as though it is now time for others to step to the plate and I have no doubt that others will do so.” she wrote in an e-mail message.

JEAN BRYANT

Sunday’s 36th annual Miss Black Teenage Pageant will be the final event organized by Bryant, but she says the show will definitely go on without her. Although there is currently no replacement to take over her responsibilities, Bryant said several Miss Black Teenage Pageant committee members have expressed an interest in the role.

As Bryant steps down, she acknowledges the many ways the pageant has positively affected the lives of the young women who take part in it. Since its inception, the program has awarded more than $400,000 in scholarships and donations, including full four-year scholarships to Clarion University and guidance to 1,830 young ladies so far.   

Noting well-known pageant alums such as “Law & Order SUV’s” Tamara Tunie (who co-produced August Wilson’s final installment of the Pittsburgh cycle, “Radio Golf” on Broadway) and Broadway actress Rema Webb, Bryant also pointed out that scores of contestants went on to become doctors, teachers, attorneys and ministers.

“I believe the program has left a legacy of young women armed with confidence, awareness, and pride,” she said.

“Did we give them the talent? No, we just helped them discover it and gave them the stage, a springboard from which most launched successful careers.”

One of those successful participants is recording artist Kendra Ross, who returns home for a show at the Shadow Lounge on Saturday, and will be a special guest at Sunday’s pageant; J’Aira Pryor will also take the stage.

The 36th annual Miss Black Teenage Pageant takes place May 11 at 5 p.m. at Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall in Oakland. Contestants ages 10-12 will compete in the Miss Princess segment of the pageant and girls 13-17 compete for Miss Black Teenage.

The Miss Princess winner will receive $500 and the Miss Black Teenage winner will win a $1,000 scholarship cash prize.      

(For more information, call 412-361-6591.)