By DON FLETCHER
News Staff Writer
Emily Fayard, a first-generation Poarch Band of Creek Indians descendant, was recently selected by a panel of judges from the Alabama Indian Affairs Commission and Alabama Intertribal Council as Miss Indian Alabama 2019.
The young beauty, chosen from among numerous entries by members of state or federally recognized Native American tribes in Alabama, is the daughter of Bryan and Candice Fayard of Flomaton.
“We are incredibly proud of Miss Emily Fayard, a first-generation descendant of the Poarch Creek Indians, on being crowned the new Miss Indian Alabama,” Stephanie A. Bryan, PCI’s Tribal Chair and CEO, said of the honor bestowed on the tribal member.
Each entrant in the annual competition, which was started in 2006, must be between the ages of 17-23 years and a high school senior or college student. She must be single with no children and must be a member of an Indian tribe that is recognized by either the state or federal government.
Each hopeful must also be a resident of Alabama and must maintain a GPA of at least 3.0 while attending an Alabama school.
Contestants are judged on Intro (their appearance in an evening gown), on Native Regalia (must be original), on talent and must answer one question from the judging panel. An essay of 500 to 1,000 words must also be submitted by each young woman seeking the title, to be used as a tiebreaker, if necessary.
Fayard became the fourth PCI tribal member to win the statewide honor.
Megan Young, who held the distinction from November 2006 until March 2007, was the first. She was followed by Megan Rolin, who reigned from April 2007 through October 2007, and Cortney Morris, who was Miss Indian Alabama of 2011.
Bryan pointed out that Fayard would serve an important role in helping spread awareness of the Poarch tribe and its history.
“This is an important role which helps raise awareness about Alabama’s first people, and Miss Fayard will be an amazing ambassador,” the PCI leader said. “We look forward to seeing the wonderful things she accomplishes during her year.”