Issue date: 1/22/09 Section: Features

Media Credit: Scott Johnsgard Freshman business administration major Callie Thompson was selected Nov. 16 as Miss Houston and will compete at the Miss Texas pageant in July in Fort Worth. [Click to enlarge]

Beauty pageants have received plenty of guilt from those who believe they're only about appearances. The truth, however, is that judges are looking for a double threat these days: beauty and good character.

On Nov. 15, freshman business major Callie Thompson was crowned Miss Houston 2009.

The idea to participate in the competition came from her longtime dance director Sheila Milner, the Miss Houston Pageant organizer.

With the encouragement of Milner and the incentive of receiving scholarship money, Callie jumped on board and began dieting and exercising to prepare herself for the competition.

"Pageants are known as the largest provider of scholarships for women in the world," Callie said.

The competition consisted of five categories, beginning with a 10-minute private interview with the judges. Swimsuit, evening gown, talent and on-stage questions followed the interview.

An entrance fee is covered by sponsors, but each contestant must pay for her wardrobe. Luckily for Callie, her boyfriend's older sister, Molly Hazlett, was crowned Miss Texas in 2007 and graciously aided in providing the perfect evening gown, swimsuit and interview ensemble. However, the previously-crowned clothes were not what won Callie the title.

Callie keeps herself busy as a member of the Sigma Phi Lambda sorority and a teacher at the Bryan-College Station dance studio.

"Callie is a very driven and determined person," said Lisa Thompson, Callie's mom. "She made her dreams come true."

Callie began her career as Miss Houston with a platform based on preventing school violence through character education.

Callie now travels to schools and functions speaking to kids about the importance of respect. As the new year begins, Callie's reign as Miss Houston begins to take shape. She said she expects many speaking trips across Texas throughout the semester.

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