Tide Women's Hoops Star Among Five UA Homecoming Queen Candidates

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The University of Alabama on Sunday announced five candidates for Homecoming Queen who will appear on the student ballot Tuesday, Oct. 18.

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UA Homecoming is set for Oct. 22 for the Crimson Tide's matchup with SEC foe Mississippi State.

Here's a look at each candidate, along with the Statement of Intent they provided to the university.

Megan Abrams

Major: Business Administration

Classification: Graduate Student

Statement of Intent

“For me, Tuscaloosa has become a home away from home. When I was offered the opportunity to come back and play basketball for a 5th year, the decision was a no-brainer. Being able to wear the script A is not something that I take lightly, which is why I pride myself on contributing to our university and community in thoughtful ways. I often contribute by sharing my journey at UA with others and offering unique perspectives on my experiences here. I believe that diverse representation in a positive, influential role such as Homecoming Queen is crucial. As an athlete and black woman, I would be honored to provide representation that may inspire students like me to take on similar leadership roles. I have loved every moment that I have attended this university, and it hurts to say that I only have a few months left as a student. With the time that I have left, I want to continue making meaningful impacts on the community that provided me with the love and support that I needed to be where I am today. There’s no place in the country I’d rather be.”

Olivia Bruno

Major: Biology

Minor: Social Innovation & Leadership, General Business, and Psychology

Classification: Senior

Statement of Intent

“The University of Alabama facilitates not only great leaders on campus but in the community. Whether that be the community of Tuscaloosa or a student’s hometown, as members of this university we are charged to give back and seek ways to help and improve the world around us. This institution encourages its students to achieve great feats academically, personally, and philanthropically through its programs to further education, advocacy of inclusive groups and clubs on campus, and effort to make this campus a home to all who come here. I have always admired the opportunities the university has offered to help students achieve their goals and pursue their own personal interests. As a member of many organizations on campus, I intend to highlight the numerous opportunities that The University of Alabama provides for all students with diverse backgrounds and interests to get involved and grow in their scholarship, service, and leadership. This includes sharing ways that students can give back to the community of Tuscaloosa by serving with local organizations. I have been involved with several service organizations around the community that I plan to promote as places where students can give back to the community that gives so much to them.”

Olivia Burleson

Major: Elementary Education

Classification: Junior

Statement of Intent

“I am seeking candidacy as the UA Homecoming Queen because this is a respectful and reputable platform. To represent The University of Alabama as Homecoming Queen would truly be an honor. I could use this platform to spread awareness of Invisible Disabilities in young children and adults. This is extremely important in today’s educational system. I want to use this opportunity to utilize my voice and advocate for those individuals who are silently struggling. My passion for children has led me to pursue this position so that I can share my vision. If I were to serve as the 2022 UA Homecoming Queen, I would travel to local schools and speak on those students’ behalf. I hope that my love and belief in the University of Alabama’s education program would shine through this opportunity.”

Ellery Hill

Major: Finance

Minor: Women’s Studies

Classification: Senior

Statement of Intent

“My hometown is exactly what you would picture when listening to a country song. Cornfields line my dirt road, I spent my childhood camping in my backyard, and I graduated high school with only sixty other students. While I have since moved and established my independence here at The University of Alabama, growing up in my hometown taught me that love and support are the foundation of community. I am overwhelmed with gratitude as I look back on the love and support that this community has brought me. Through service opportunities here at UA, I have learned to be intentional in all that I do, ensuring that each role I take on is well suited to my strengths and that my efforts will result in an impact. Leadership opportunities granted to me in the last three years have encouraged responsibility and connection with mentees and other leaders across campus. The diverse perspectives and students that I have worked alongside have made my empathy more robust and well-suited to work with others. Finally, the educational and experiential opportunities at The University of Alabama have consistently fed – and fueled – my intellectual curiosity. It is through these four pillars that I will serve as homecoming queen.”

Bayley St. Clair

Major: English

Minor: Philosophy and Political Science

Classification: Senior

Statement of Intent

“Hi, my name is Bayley St. Clair and I am running for UA Homecoming Queen. I am passionate about The University of Alabama and the wider Tuscaloosa Community as I engage through organizations on campus and communities off campus. I intend to continue working with Deacon’s Deli food pantry at Canterbury Chapel that feeds families in Tuscaloosa. I am thankful to be a part of this ministry as it helps the Tuscaloosa community, our neighbors, and friends. I believe Homecoming is to recognize the familial bond we all share through this University we call home. Understanding this aspect of our community makes me proud to be a part of a legendary campus with extremally talented and passionate individuals. I want to continue to represent this spirit throughout my candidacy. I am thankful for this opportunity to represent my friends and loved ones.”

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