Miss CSU Breanne Lovelace named 2nd runner-up at HBCU Pageant 

By Alissa Paolella, Communications Manager

Breanne “Bree” Lovelace, the 77th Miss Central State University and a graduating senior majoring in educational studies, has made history by securing the position of second  runner-up at the prestigious Mister & Miss HBCU Pageant in North Carolina in January.

Competing against representatives from top Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the nation, Lovelace’s achievement stands as a testament to her dedication, passion and commitment to impact. 

Hailing from Columbus, Ohio, Lovelace was raised by a single mother alongside her twin brother. With a deeply rooted support system, she has always been encouraged to pursue her aspirations. Her passion for education stems from her desire to create lasting change, particularly by inspiring future educators.  

“I’ve always wanted to be a teacher. I’m big on impact, and I think one big way to do so is to be in a classroom, hands-on, every single day pouring into these individuals,” Lovelace said. 

Her journey at Central State University began with three years on the cheerleading team, an experience that shaped her identity on campus.

However, she saw a need for change and a broader representation of Central State beyond Ohio. Determined to be a voice for her peers and to advocate for progress, she embraced the challenge of leadership, leading to her election as Miss Central State University. 

Lovelace’s reign as Miss CSU has been defined by her platform: “Reform — Focus on the Journey, Not the Destination: Culture, class, and commitment will define your reformation.”  

She emphasizes building upon traditions rather than changing them, ensuring that Marauders are engaged through innovative programming, community service and advocacy.

A key component of her service includes her involvement with Caterpillars to Butterflies, an organization founded by her aunt in Huber Heights, Ohio, dedicated to working with autistic individuals. 

The journey to the Mister & Miss HBCU Pageant was rigorous, requiring months of preparation following her coronation in October. Lovelace worked tirelessly on her oratory skills, talent performance and stage presence while receiving mentorship from past Miss CSU titleholders, Raven Golliday and Teeyah Skipper. 

Golliday remains on campus while studying in the Master of Business Administration program, while Skipper serves as a residence hall coordinator in the Office of Residence Life at Central State. “Just having them physically here means the world,” Lovelace said. 

For her talent performance, she delivered a powerful act by singing Jasmine Sullivan’s “Masterpiece,” symbolizing self-acceptance and empowerment. 

“I did this illusion that I was painting (while singing on stage),” Lovelace explained. “The audience thought I was painting the whole time. At the end, I turned the easel around, and it was a mirror. The message was that I am the masterpiece. 

“I turned it around and it was a reflection of myself.” 

Her oratory presentation was equally impactful, shedding light on the challenges Black women face in society. Using a dramatic prop — a ticking bomb attached to her — she highlighted the unjust stereotypes imposed on Black women, challenging perceptions and advocating for change. 

Lovelace’s primary goal was to make it into the top five, knowing she was competing against larger HBCUs with more resources than CSU. When she was announced as a finalist, she was overwhelmed with gratitude. Placing in the top three was an even greater honor.  

“I just kept saying, ‘Thank you, God.’ Typically, when you think of Mister and Miss HBCU, you don’t think of Central State,  but I stood alongside them, and that was huge,” she reflected. 

Miss North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University finished in first place, while Miss Morgan State was first runner-up. 

Beyond her pageant success, Lovelace is deeply invested in community service, mentoring youth, and promoting mental health awareness. Through coaching cheerleading, volunteering with the Eastland Vikings in Columbus and engaging with organizations that uplift young women, she continues to pour into the next generation. She is particularly passionate about addressing the mental health struggles of women and student-athletes, emphasizing the importance of balance and self-care. 

As she prepares for graduation in May, Lovelace envisions a future in higher education. She plans to pursue a master’s degree in the field and gain hands-on experience in classrooms and leadership roles before ultimately obtaining her Ph.D. and becoming Dr. Lovelace. Inspired by her mother’s resilience and success — she earned two degrees while raising twins.

For those aspiring to leadership positions, Lovelace’s message is clear: “Go for it and chase whatever dream God has placed in your heart. There is no dream too big. It just takes work and a journey. Focus on the journey, not the destination.”