Jenny Russell, a senior interior design major from Natchitoches, claimed first runner-up last time she competed for the title of Miss Louisiana Tech, but this year she took home the crown.

Russell, who also won Best Interview, will compete in the Miss Louisiana pageant later in June. In addition to her title, she received a full tuition scholarship, a wardrobe budget and other various gifts and discounts to local businesses.

Eleven women competed for the event, which was held Jan. 7 in Howard Auditorium, Center for the Performing Arts. Other finalists are as follows:

• Heather Broadwell, a sophomore biological sciences major from Bossier City — first runner-up;

• Nicole Fairburn, a senior finance major from Abita Springs — second runner-up;

• Lexie McKenzie, a junior accounting major from Minden — third runner-up; and

• Tori Close, a sophomore speech education major from Alexandria — fourth runner-up.

Written by Judith Roberts