Meet Miss Native ENMU 2018-19
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Vivian Lueras
PORTALES, NM (12/19/2018) Vivian Lueras, a student pursuing a master's degree in business administration at Eastern New Mexico University, was recently named Miss Native ENMU 2018-19.
Vivian, who plans to graduate in December 2019, shares what being named Miss Native ENMU means to her:
Why did you decide to run for Miss Native ENMU?
Being a young Native American woman, I wanted to take this opportunity to represent my Tribe and my family.
What was the process of becoming Miss Native ENMU?
In order to become Miss Native ENMU, I had to apply with the Native American Office. You must be single, have at least one-quarter of Native American blood, and provide a CIB (Certificate of Indian Blood). You can be an undergraduate or graduate Student; however, Miss Native must be able to hold the title for an entire academic year November to November. For the Miss Native Pageant, I had to represent my culture/tribe through public speaking, traditional attire and traditional talent. I also participated in the Miss Photogenic portion of the competition.
What does it mean to you to be named Miss Native ENMU?
It is a great honor to be Miss Native ENMU and not only to represent my University and Tribe, but all Native Americans. This title has helped me to celebrate my culture and become a role model for young Native American women and my people. I hope to encourage everyone to achieve their goals, pursue their education and embrace their culture. This title allows me to be an ambassador for not only my tribe, but all of the unique and diverse ethnic groups we have here on our campus and around the world. I also enjoy being involved in Multicultural Affairs and getting to experience and learn about cultures different from my own.
What are your responsibilities as Miss Native ENMU?
Some of my duties and responsibilities as Miss Native ENMU include volunteering in the Native American Affairs Office, participating in all activities that the office sponsors, participating in any other events I may be asked to attend or present at and coordinating next year's Miss Native ENMU Pageant.
What part of being Miss Native ENMU do you look forward to the most?
My favorite part about being Miss Native ENMU is the opportunity I am receiving to represent so many people. This title allows me to be an ambassador for not only MY tribe, but ALL of the unique and diverse ethnic groups we have here on our campus and around the world. I also enjoy being involved with Multicultural Affairs and getting to experience and learn about cultures different from my own.
What advice do you have for students who may be interested in running for Miss Native ENMU?
Some advice for any of the young women who may be interested in running for Miss Native ENMU is to first be prepared for taking on this important role. This title holds much responsibility and students should be prepared to attend events, participate in the Native American/Multicultural Community. Anyone running for Miss Native should have good time management, good public speaking skills, a good GPA and should be very knowledgeable of their culture. As Miss Native ENMU you are a role model for not only young Native American people but young people of all cultures.
