Alexandra Curtis ’14, a graduate of Syracuse University’s College of Arts and Sciences, has received a $2,500 academic tuition scholarship from the Miss Rhode Island Scholarship Program, as a result of being named first runner-up in that state’s pageant. She also has received the $1,000 State Community Service Award, the $250 Women’s Mental Health Award, and the $150 Poise and Presence Award.

The scholarship money will come in handy to Curtis, a dual major in political science and public relations, who will return to Syracuse University to pursue a master’s degree in Information Management, after completing a fellowship with Running Start, a non-profit, non-partisan organization working to advance opportunities for women in politics, a cause close to Curtis’ heart. Until then, she will compete against other first runners-up in the Miss National Sweetheart Pageant in August, representing her home state of Rhode Island.

Curtis is no stranger to the spotlight. Along with her eight years of participation in pageants, including two years with the Miss America Organization, she has served as president and vice president of the Syracuse University Student Association. She was also a Remembrance Scholar, one of Syracuse University's most prestigious awards, given to senior students who demonstrate exceptional scholarship, citizenship, and service. Curtis also served as a student representative on the Board of Trustees, a member of the Traditions Commission’s Class Council, and a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma collegiate women’s fraternity.

Curtis hopes to someday run for office and feels that her experiences in and out of the classroom have given her the confidence and toughness that she needs.

“I am grateful for all of the opportunities I have had, because of Syracuse University and the Miss America Organization,” she says. “I have gained confidence, poise, and leadership skills that I know will help me throughout my professional and personal life. I am extremely excited to return to Syracuse University and to continue being a part of this incredible community.”

The Miss Rhode Island Scholarship Program is not the first group to acknowledge Curtis’s talents. During her four years at Syracuse University, Curtis stood out as a remarkable student and person. “I admire Allie as a student, mentee, and friend,” says Georgia Popoff, a longtime instructor in The Renée Crown University Honors Program. “She is a gracious and talented young woman who deserves every bit of success that she receives. We are fortunate that she will remain a part of the campus community.”