By STACI PARKS

slp025@latech.edu

 

Shilah Phillips, who currently holds the title of Miss Texas, was named first runner up for the 2007 Miss America pageant Monday Jan. 29.

Although she did not walk away with the prestigious title of Miss America, Phillips managed to make history as the first black woman to ever hold the title of Miss Texas.

According to www.misstexas.org Phillips, who also briefly appeared on season three of “American Idol,” has previously attended the Denver School of Performing Arts.

She also has studied jazz music at Howard University in Washington, D.C.

The Web site stated that Phillips has been accepted to the University of North Texas’ jazz studies and voice program.

Cara Peterson, a senior merchandising and consumer studies major from Dallas, said Phillips’ achievement is a great stride for   Texas.

“I think Shilah’s accomplishment is important,” Peterson said.

“She’s going to be a wonderful role model for younger girls.”

Peterson said she was excited when she first heard about Phillip’s success in the pageant.

“I was very excited to hear about Shilah placing first runner up in the Miss America pageant. Especially since she’s Texas’ first African-American woman to hold the title,” She said.

“America is a very diverse country,” Peterson said.

“It’s now time to notice positive role models from different cultures and ethnic backgrounds.”

She said Phillips’ title of Miss Texas was a great achievement.

“Texas is a very multi-cultural state,” Peterson said.

“Shilah Phillips serves as a great representative and role model for Texas in that aspect.”