Here she is?Miss Valerie Johnson. Aside from being a full-time Liberal Studies major and a Sigma Delta Pi member at Sacramento State, Johnson just won the “Miss Sacramento Valley USA 2001” title in February, and is on her way to become “Miss California.”

“My immediate and realistic goal is to become Miss California, but ultimately, my fantasy is to become Miss Universe,” Johnson said.

Johnson wants to make it clear that the type of pageants she competes in are not in conjuction with the “Miss America” competition.

“The type of pageants I’m in are more modern and it’s all about poise, personality and presence. We also don’t have a talent competition,” Johnson said.

Johnson, a Gold River resident for the past 15 years, admitted upon reflection that she entered the world of pageantry on a fluke. Her parents were against the idea from day one.

“My father, as he said it, didn’t want his daughter parading around on a stage as a piece of meat?but my best friend’s mother was putting on the pageant in Carmichael and she needed more contestants so we signed up,” Johnson said.

Johnson and her friend placed in the top three in that Carmichael competition, but it was Johnson who became addicted to pageants and has been investing her time and money into them ever since. Her efforts paid off; she has won many titles since 1996, including Miss Sacramento Valley Teen USA-1997 and Miss California Teen USA-1998.

Apart from winning titles in her “hobby” as a pageant queen, Johnson’s true ambition in life is to help others and become an educator.

“I’m scheduled to graduate next spring and after that I plan on getting my teaching credentials. My dream would be to teach fifth graders,” Johnson said.

In the little time that Johnson has to spare, she insists that she loves volunteering at Camilla Basic Elementary School twice a week and has helped children who are not as advanced as others in an after-school reading program.

“I enjoy helping people and being involved in pageants has given me more opportunities to do that. By being a title holder, I’ve been granted a chance to work with amazing organizations such as the Make-A-Wish Foundation,” Johnson said.

Despite the negative stereotype associated with pageants, Johnson explains that competing requires more from a contestant than coifing and posing.

“I consider competing in pageants like a sport. This is my sport and unlike other sports, I’m not competing with a team, I’m competing with my best self.”

For Johnson to arrive at her best self, she needs and would appreciate support whether through monetary donations or sponsorships.

“I’m desperate? it’s expensive to represent Sacramento the best way I can. Savvy Gym Fitness in Folsom sponsors me by giving me a free membership, and as a thank you, I bought them a plaque. Any business that shows they sponsor a title holder, boosts their image,” Johnson said.

Johnson was quick to point out that a reputable way for businesses to get some real exposure is by sponsoring her.

“The advertisements are displayed for a lot of people to see at pageant events?so any contribution would help them out as well,” Johnson said.

Johnson will compete for Miss California USA 2001 in August. If anyone or any business would like to support Johnson with the Miss California USA pageant, please e-mail her at [email protected].