Amber Wilsondebriano, a 17-year-old senior at Porter-Gaud School in Charleston, South Carolina, recently made history by becoming the first Black homecoming queen in the private school’s 155-year history. Wilsondebriano, an honors student who maintains a 4.66 GPA, was elected by her fellow students in the homecoming court.
“When I was nominated, I didn’t feel confident I would win,” Wilsondebriano said. “However, throughout the week, many students told me they were voting for me. When the day came and my name was called, I was relieved and honored because I knew I was a part of history.”
Wilsondebriano Co-Founded Black Excellence Society
In addition to her academic achievements, Wilsondebriano is a leader at Porter-Gaud. She co-founded several school clubs, including the Black Excellence Society. This club provides a space for Black students to come together, embrace their identity and culture, and promote diversity at the predominantly white school.
“There are less than 10 Black people in my senior class,” Wilsondebriano said. “When we have our meetings, every Black student in the school can fit in one classroom.”
When Wilsondebriano pitched the idea for the club last year, the school directors immediately accepted the program and have provided funding and classroom space. “I can’t say enough how supportive the school has been of the club,” Wilsondebriano said.
Aspiring Author Hopes To Inspire Other Students
The aspiring artist and author, who will attend Savannah College of Art and Design next year, said she hopes her achievement as homecoming queen will inspire other students.
“I knew that being able to show up as a role model would inspire so many young children, and I’m so proud I get the title of the first Black homecoming queen,” she said. “I hope that young girls and young children can look up to me and hope anything is possible.”
Her mother, Monique Wilsondebriano, said it comes as no surprise that Amber was elected homecoming queen. “She is such a blessing. It’s not surprising to me that the kids voted for her to become queen. She is a good friend and is very loyal.”
Porter-Gaud Celebrates Milestone
Porter-Gaud Head of School DuBose Egleston celebrated Amber’s election in a statement: “We celebrate Amber’s election as she joins the many noteworthy homecoming queens we’ve had since our school became co-educational in 1972. We are fortunate to have Amber as a member of our community.”
He added that Amber and her family “have had such a positive and meaningful experience during their 12 years here on our campus.”
The election of Amber Wilsondebriano signifies a milestone in the history of Porter-Gaud. As the school’s first Black homecoming queen, she will serve as an inspiration for current and future students of all backgrounds.
