Kentucky State University is an HBCU which lies next to my heart. My sister, who just finished medical school, spent her undergraduate career there, so I was kept in the loop when the world seemed to flip on its head regarding who the students chose to hold the title of Miss Kentucky State University. As you can see, she's not exactly what one would expect an HBCU Homecoming Queen to look like, but Elisabeth Martin's skin color likely reflects one of the many faces that define Historically Black colleges in the new millennium. So, while I was personally dismayed that Kentucky State University (along with many HBCUs around the nation) seems to be forgetting about the importance of having African American faculty, the truth is that we are in an era in which one needs to determine what it means to be an HBCU.

Personally, I love the fact that the students at Kentucky State chose Elisabeth Martin as their homecoming queen. Martin, a 21-year old International Studies major, won the crown by a landslide, dominating the competition. It has been her race, however, that has sent shock waves through the Kentucky State University community. But Martin takes the heat in stride and carries herself with a grace and class that should make the campus proud. The fact that the students love her so much is verified by her love for the campus and commitment to school spirit. She has also handled the national media attention like a true queen should.

AOL Black Voices had the chance to catch up with Elisabeth Martin:

1) Since winning the crown of Miss Kentucky State University, what has been the reaction from students? Have the alumni reacted in the same way or differently?

The student reaction after being elected as Miss Kentucky State University has been overall very positive and supportive. I have received very little negative feedback. The alumni have also been very positive. I have received numerous e-mail, messages on Face Book and phone calls congratulating me on my new position, wishing me success and offering support.

2) For those who have a problem with your being the first white winner of this title, why do you think they are responding negatively?

Change is not traditional. Negativity is a result of being unwilling to embrace or see the positive side to change; therefore, the negativity received because I am the first white female to hold the title of Miss Kentucky State University can be because it breaks from the traditional African-American queen-ship that is seen at 110 Historically Black Colleges/Universities around the United States.

3) What is it about your personality (in your opinion) that made the students support you so strongly?

I am REAL (relational, encouraging, authentic and loving). Being relational is a key aspect of being a queen, and it is important to reach out and relate with every student no matter the differences. Encouraging fellow peers is also vital, for it shows the importance and worth that is given to another individual. Without authenticity, we as humans become fake and put on masks that hide the pains, struggles and failures that could be used to bond us together. Loving can be a hard trait to find, but true love is picking someone up and standing beside them to advocate for them as well as being honest, telling what is needed, not what someone wants to hear. I am REAL, but I have to admit that I too can hide behind the masks, not relate, discourage and not care to love when I become self-centered. I pray that I can be REAL even when it is easier to take the smooth and easy path.

4) What were your reservations about running for the crown and what made you eventually decide to do it?

Thorobred Passion inspired me to run for Miss KSU. I did not have many reservations to run for this position because of my desire to serve KSU and to be a model student leader. My only reservation was facing my fears, so I put my faith in the student body to pick who they thought was best for the position-and they chose me. I am honored to be in this position, and I look forward to the next year of excitements and challenges.

5) What made you decide to attend an HBCU?

I decided to attend an HBCU because of the family atmosphere and small class sizes. I recognize and appreciate the opportunities for personal and leadership development that have been afforded me here at KSU.

6) What are your plans and dreams for the future?

I plan to go to graduate school to seek a master's degree in International Communications. The world is constantly getting smaller and having the ability to work in the international arena is my plan. Eventually, I would like to start a school/institute that caters to students who do not have the financial resources for intensive personal and leadership growth at the high school level, but who want to become leaders and are willing to strive for excellence to achieve their goals.

7) Is there anything else you would like to share with our Black Voices audience?

Diversity is beautiful when I look at the mosaic that God has created on this earth with the breathtaking cultures, languages and traditions. My goal is to bring unity not division, and to continue to see the value in difference while embracing the similarities among all people groups and cultures.

This interview was conducted by Dr Boyce Watkins, Finance Professor at Syracuse University. For more information, please visit www.BoyceWatkins.com. To have Dr Boyce commentary delivered directy to your email box, please click here.