When the idea of prom is brought to mind, we typically think of expensive ball gowns and tuxedos, a fancy venue filled with teenagers, and a night to remember. Just as promposals and corsages are now a part of iconic prom tradition, prom royalty is also a well-known phenomenon that many look forward to as well. 

For generations, prom court has been a very honored practice and cornerstone of Judson and prom culture itself. Weaving together aspects of friendly competition, celebration, and association; when court nominees were announced, students around campus buzzed with curiosity, wondering who would be crowned royalty

Judson High School’s prom queen nominations include Anne Johnson, Ireana Kelly, and Soraya Martinez, while the prom king nominations include: John Maurer, Brydon Montgomery, and Zhakius Thomas.

As the prom nominees start to enter the end of their high school experience, each one carries a unique aspiration. For some, running for royalty has always been something on the forefront of their mind, while for others, running will help them live their dream “high school experience”. 

“Growing up, I’ve always wanted to be a prom king or some type of royalty to the school. I would always have dreams of being in the spotlight or being up on a stage,” said Brydon Montgomery. 

As some share their motivations for seeking a place on the prom court, it became apparent that behind each aspiration lies a deeply personal connection to the nomination. Beyond the spotlight and accolades, this nomination holds a symbolic need for validation, relationship, and one of the most important parts of their high school journey. 

“Honestly, this nomination [just being nominated] means that I’ve already won. Even if I don’t win, I feel like I’ve already won because I got so many votes, that I am now running for prom queen. And even if I don’t win, it’ll still be great because I even got considered for prom queen,” said Ireana Kelly. 

Reflecting on the deeply personal significance of their prom court nominations, nominees also shed light on their involvement in school clubs and organizations. From taking leadership roles in student government to actively participating in health care initiatives, these individuals show an example of leadership and community through various outlets of their high school experience.

“I’m involved in many clubs around the school such as student council, FFA (Future Farmers of America), and PCT (Patient-Care Technician),” said Soraya Martinez. 

The tradition of prom court takes center stage once more, beckoning students to participate in shaping its future. Nominees explain their take on why they should be voted for the 2023-2034 prom king and queen. 

“I feel like the student body should vote for me because I know how to have a good time and I’m a very outgoing person. I love to make new friends and I’m always willing to give people a chance, even if others don’t,” explained Ireana Kelly. 

“The student body should vote for me because I am a great student, I do great things within the community, and I try to be a kind person to everyone,” said Brydon Montgomery. 

So while prom is an inclusive event now, it has indeed evolved a lot from its perspective origins.

For years, prom kings and queens were a symbol of an individual who fit the “beauty standard,” but have advanced into something that showcases a strong sense of community, leadership, prosperity, and dependence. 

According to History.com, in the late 19th century, prom, originally known as “promenade”, was a popular college event that had ties to debutante balls. Debutante balls introduced young women into society and acceptable men, which was also known as a “coming out party”. In the 1920s, high schools started to introduce prom as a learning experience that fit along with the correct behavior of men and women, following the proper gender and racial norms, though they excluded Black students. 

With the previous intentional undermining of the Brown V. Board of Education ruling, the forming of separate proms for designated races, and the pushing back of original practices of prom, the event has gradually evolved into something that all can enjoy, regardless of sex, race, and sexual orientation. 

To see who will be crowned 2023-2024 prom royalty, be sure to buy your ticket, and come out to the Rosenberg Sky Room on April 20, 2024, for a night of “Magical Enchantment”.

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*Certain nominees weren’t interviewed for this article because of scheduling conflicts*