The contestants for the Miss University of South Alabama Scholarship Program will compete for more than $4,000 in scholarship money.

“Luck be a Lady” is the theme for this year’s event, which will be held at 7 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 28 at the USA Mitchell Center. Admission is $3 for students and general admission is $5. Keepsake programs for the event will cost $5.

“This money will help the scholarship winners pay for their educational expenses at USA”, said Dr. J. David Stearns, associate vice president for enrollment services. “This program provides an opportunity for these women to showcase their talent, evening gown, swimsuit and interview skills.”

The Miss USA Pageant is a preliminary scholarship program, which leads to the 2006 Miss Alabama and Miss America Pageants. Pervious winners have received additional awards. Myra Barginear, Miss USA 1996, placed second runner up in the 1997 Miss America Pageant.

Miss USA Contestants are:

Sociology sophomore Melissa Hadiye Engin of Mobile, daughter of Ali and Isin Engin will give a martial arts performance.		Biomedical science freshman Teresa Le’Anna Johnson of Hattiesburg, Miss., daughter of Clarence and Kim Johnson will perform a vocal selection.
Biomedical sciences senior Grace Destin Landers of Leighton, Ala., daughter of Macon and Karen Landers will perform a jazz dance.		Radiology technology junior Jessica Duon Merritt of Mobile, daughter of Charlotte Turner and Richard Merritt will perform a vocal selection.
Communication sophomore Holly Samantha Peek of Niceville, Fla., daughter of Sam and Paige Peek will give a steel drum performance.		Drama junior Camille Nicole Perillo of Cantonment, Fla., daughter of Louis and Evelyn Perillo will perform a vocal selection.
Theatre junior Tiffany D. Williams of Montgomery, Ala., daughter of Clarence and Lillie Williams will perform a vocal selection.