For Sunlake High School senior Briana Mcgregor, being crowned Homecoming Queen was the fulfillment of a dream years in the making. Throughout high school, Briana always admired the tradition of Homecoming Court and the excitement surrounding it. She had watched other students’ campaign, walk the field, and celebrate with friends, and she knew she wanted to experience it herself before graduating. When her senior year arrived, Briana decided it was finally her time to step up, make memories, and give the opportunity her best shot. The process, however, wasn’t easy. Briana had to go through two rounds of voting to secure her spot on the Senior Court. To be crowned queen, she would need to earn the most votes in the final round. Determined to give herself the best chance, Briana decided to run with one of her friends Steven Gilmore, and together they launched their campaign. They posted consistently on social media, encouraging classmates in the Class of 2026 to vote for them, while also spreading the word in person to all their friends. Their energy, consistency, and enthusiasm paid off when Briana received the message she had been waiting for—she and Steven had officially made court. Briana said “It was sort of a mix of shock and happiness knowing that a lot of people believed in me and supported me,” Briana reflected.

 Once she made court, the real fun began. Briana prepared for the events leading up to Homecoming, including the much-anticipated football game. On the day of the game, she carefully picked out her outfit, styled her hair and makeup, and gave herself a pep talk before stepping in front of the crowd. “Just take in and enjoy this moment instead of stressing,” she reminded herself. That night, Briana and the rest of the court were driven around the track in jeeps before walking down the field as the announcer introduced each candidate. Excitement filled the stadium as it came time to announce the winners. When Briana’s name was called as Sunlake’s 2025 Homecoming Queen, she lit up. With a bright smile, she walked forward to receive her crown and sash. “I was shocked in the best way!” she said. “I felt honored, and so thankful for all the support.”

The celebration didn’t end there. At the Homecoming dance, Briana got ready with her closest friends, took plenty of pictures to remember the night, and danced with endless energy. For her, the evening was less about the title and more about cherishing her final Homecoming as a senior. Looking back, Briana is filled with gratitude for the entire experience. “It felt like a once-in-a-lifetime moment that I will always remember—how supported and celebrated I felt by my school.” Her Homecoming journey was not just about a crown, but about the memories, and the confidence she gained along the way—memories she’ll carry long after graduation.