Chelan welcomes return of Miss Lake Chelan Pageant

CHELAN — The Miss Lake Chelan pageant, a hallmark of community tradition and youth empowerment, is set to make its return on Saturday, March 9, at 6 p.m., hosted at the Chelan High School Performing Arts Center. After a brief interlude, the event will once again spotlight local talent and aspiration, with Chloe Desgroseillier, Eva Marron, and Mae Otom vying for the coveted title.

The competition, deeply rooted in Chelan's culture since the crowning of the first Princess Chelan, Henrietta Kelsey, in 1926, offers a platform for young women to showcase leadership, public speaking skills, and community service, while serving as ambassadors of their hometown. The inclusion of scholarship awards in the 1970s further cemented the program's appeal, attracting some of the most promising students in the area.

This year's candidates bring a rich diversity of interests and commitments to the table:

Chloe Desgroseillier

Chloe Desgroseillier, a junior at Chelan High School, stands out for her extensive involvement in extracurriculars ranging from athletics to the arts. As a cross-country team captain, vice-president of the Drama Club, and an active member of various clubs and community projects, Chloe aims to use the Miss Lake Chelan platform to be a force of positive change and inspiration.

“I am a junior at Chelan High School. I am involved in many different clubs and activities at the school. I am a team captain on the cross country team, an athlete in track and field, president of Hope Squad, and vice-president of the Drama Club. I am also involved with the Art Club, Chelan Project, and various band activities and events. Outside of school, I am regularly involved in my church and youth group. I want to be Miss Lake Chelan because it is an amazing opportunity to impact my community and gain skills that will help me my entire life. I believe that I can be a positive role model to the younger generations and make a difference in the lives of others.”

Eva Marron

Eva Marron, a senior, also embodies the spirit of leadership and community engagement. Serving as the Cheer Captain and holding positions in multiple clubs, Eva's aspiration for the title is driven by a desire to be a role model and to contribute positively to her community.

“I am a senior at Chelan High School. Some of my extracurriculars include being Chelan High School Cheer Captain, secretary for the Todos United Club, member of the Chelan Project Club and participating in band performances. During my free time, I enjoy listening to music and reading. I want to be Miss Lake Chelan because I would like to be someone other people can look up to, as well as contribute to the community.”

Mae Otom

Mae Otom, another junior contender, participates in a broad spectrum of school activities, including the Drill Team and Drama Club, and has a passion for singing and painting. Mae's motivation to become Miss Lake Chelan stems from a desire to empower young girls in the community to aim high and believe in their potential.

“I am a junior at Chelan High School. I participate in a variety of clubs and activities at school, such as Drill Team, Drama Club, Hope Squad, and tennis. Outside of school activities, I love to sing and paint. I recently was given the chance to sing the National Anthem at a Wenatchee Wild game. I want to be Miss Lake Chelan because I believe that I can influence the minds of young girls in our community. I want to encourage them to expand their mindsets, persevere, and give everything their best shot, even if others doubt them. Greatness can not be achieved without a mind to think it.”

The Miss Lake Chelan pageant remains a critical platform for fostering leadership, volunteerism, and the pursuit of excellence among young women in Chelan. As the community gathers to support these young contenders, the pageant promises not only to crown a new Miss Lake Chelan but to celebrate the vibrant potential and aspirations of the youth it represents.