Russellville High School graduate Silvie Miller, a freshman at Northwest Shoals Community College, has been crowned Miss Northwest Shoals.

The competition, an official preliminary for the Miss Alabama/Miss America system, took place Saturday evening in the Lou B. Bevill Center on the college’s Phil Campbell campus. Miller’s achievement marks the first time since 1995 that a NWSCC student has won the title.

Seven women vied for the title of Miss Northwest Shoals, showcasing their talents and grace through five stages of competition, including private interview, on-stage question, health and fitness, talent and evening gown.

Autumn Curry, of Tuscumbia, was named first alternate. Curry, along with Faith Cook, of Phil Campbell, tied for Miss Congeniality. Macie Welborn, of Tuscumbia, was named second alternate.

Besides winning the title of Miss Northwest Shoals, Miller won in the talent category. In addition to the prestige of the title, Miller receives a bundle of prizes, including a One-Year Tuition Scholarship, Official Custom Necklace by Creative Jewelers, a year of facials from NWSCC Salon & Spa, wardrobe discounts from Cherry Tree Lane, a bookstore scholarship, an official portrait by Lauren Archer and alterations for the Miss Alabama competition from Savannah Liles. She also receives the Miss America Local Crown, Miss America Crown Box, Miss America Crown Pin and a Silver Plate from Florence Trophy Company.

“There were so many talented and qualified girls on that stage, and I am forever grateful to be chosen as Miss Northwest Shoals Community College,” said Miller. “It is an amazing and once in a lifetime scholarship opportunity to represent NWSCC at Miss Alabama. Not only did this pageant bring me new friendships, but it taught me perseverance, poise and confidence. I am looking forward to a year full of events and opportunities to share my community service initiative, ‘Gotta Have Sole.’”

Miller, an ambassador at NWSCC, served as a volunteer cheer coach at Belgreen High School and noticed the need for shoes. “There was a girl on the squad, and her sole fell off her shoe,” she explained. “I took it upon myself and bought her a new pair of shoes. Whenever I went to her to give her the pair of shoes, she lit up with joy. This is when I discovered the “Gotta Have Sole” initiative. I never realized how much of an impact a simple pair of shoes could have on someone’s life until I discovered this amazing organization.”

By winning the title of Miss Northwest Shoals, Miller is poised to represent her college and community at the upcoming Miss Alabama competition later this year. After completing her coursework at NWSCC, she plans to continue her academic journey at the University of North Alabama in Secondary Education in math.

“Silvie’s win is not just a victory for her, but also a testament to her dedication, talent and commitment to excellence,” said Miss Northwest Shoals program director, Savannah Liles. “We are immensely proud of all the women that competed. They are all amazing people, and we are so glad they are a part of our Northwest Shoals family.”