FARMINGTON — Six contestants stood on the stage Thursday, each hoping to earn the crown naming her the new Ms. Indian San Juan College.

Cheerful supporters watched as Alanna Yazzie was crowned after the two-hour pageant held in the college's Little Theatre.

Each contestant competing in several categories as judges scored them. After a brief introduction from Master of Ceremonies Gerald Allen, the pageant began.

Traditional talent was the first competition and featured displays of native drawings, paintings and a cradle board as well as a performance of a jingle dance and the reciting of a native alphabet.

Highlights of the contemporary talent category were two piano performances, a how-to demonstration for decorating a cake and a rehearsed stage fight.

The interview portion of the event ended the competition as each contestant answered a question from a member of the judging panel.

Reigning Ms. Indian San Juan College DeAnna Yazzie performed a final traditional dance in her crown, accompanied by a drum circle. She then thanked her family and supporters for her year-long journey.

"You mean the world to me," DeAnna said. "It is bittersweet to me. I thought I would be happy to give this title away, but it is a little sad. I hope this year's recipient will do her best in this role."

Cori Mapp, administrative assistant of the Native American Center at the college, reiterated the sentimentality of the day.

"We are gonna miss DeAnna," Mapp said. "She has been such a wonderful promoter for education at San Juan College. If the new princess does half the job DeAnna did then she will be well appreciated."

The audience was entertained by a native drum circle throughout the intermissions and were treated to cake and punch following the pageant's conclusion.

After receiving her crown, Alanna stood on stage as the drum circle performed an Honor Song.

"I want to thank my family who stayed up all night to help me get ready," Alanna said. "Thank you also to the girls, who were all so funny, and I am so glad I got to meet you."

Alanna said she plans to promote the importance of academics to younger students and to tell them the significance of going to school, especially college. Alanna also hopes winning this title will allow her to become involved in activities at the college and participate in more clubs.

Darrell Morris, director of the college's Native American Center, sat in the audience and watched the contest. He said he was pleased with this year's pageant and the winner.

"I want to see her promote San Juan College by being a role model," Morris said. "Not only her family, community and her school, but primarily for herself. I want her to get her name out there and let people know that higher education is important and should not be wasted."

Fifth runner-up was Amber Renae Benally. Fourth runner-up was Kelcie Franklin. Third runner-up was Alissa Joe. Second runner-up was Ashley Julian. First runner-up was Audrianna Yazzie.