Beeville, Texas — Coastal Bend College (CBC) reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to student success and community tradition during this year’s Miss Western Week, increasing its scholarship support and deepening its involvement throughout the festivities. At Sunday’s 2025 Miss Western Week Pageant, CBC awarded scholarships of $2,500 to the winner, $1,500 to the first runner-up, and $1,000 to the second runner-up, reflecting the college’s investment in future leaders and its pride in celebrating local achievement.
The scholarship award was presented on stage by Susie Gaitan, Director of Dual Credit, and Mary Suarez, wife of CBC President Dr. Zachary Z. Suarez, on behalf of the college.
“The Miss Western Week Scholarship program is truly life-changing, offering young ladies in our community a chance to gain access to education, learn leadership skills, be productive members of society through service, and forever be part of a group that empowers young women,” said Susie Gaitan.
The pageant followed the annual Miss Western Week Leadership Forum, held Saturday, September 13. Contestants gathered for an inspiring morning of lessons on leadership, service, and educational opportunities. Speakers from Coastal Bend College — Dr. Kayla Devora-Jones, Dean of Student Services & Accessibility; Christi Morgan, Dean of Academic Support; and Susie Gaitan, Director of Dual Credit — shared insight on academic pathways, transfer scholarships, and the first-generation student experience.
“Being first-generation wasn’t a limitation — it was my superpower. It meant I could create new paths, not just for myself, but for my family and community,” said Dr. Kayla Devora-Jones, encouraging the contestants to view their backgrounds as a source of strength and leadership.
Coastal Bend College extends heartfelt thanks to Anna Marie Silvas and the entire Miss Western Week Committee for welcoming the college into this year’s events and providing meaningful opportunities to celebrate achievement, tradition, and educational advancement.
As Western Week festivities continue, CBC invites the community to join in upcoming events — including the parade — and to wrap up the week with the CBC Foundation’s Barnhart Entertainment Arts and Music Series featuring the Queen of Tejano, Cristina Amaro with the CTS Band, performing one set as Selena on Sunday, October 5, at 6 p.m. in the Gertrude R. Jones Auditorium. Learn more here: coastalbend.edu/events/the-queen-of-tejano-tribute.html