Recently appointed Miss K-State 2025, Ashlynn Brady represents Sigma Kappa sorority. (Photo courtesy | Ashlynn Brady)
The Delta Upsilon Fraternity hosted its 12th annual Miss K-State contest on April 8. The competition was created by Delta Upsilon alumnus Russel Harp to help celebrate the women of Kansas State and all organizations to which they belong. Nineteen organizations had candidates this year, including all of Greek life as well as On the Spot Improv, Women in Business and Sales Ambassadors. Grant Moffitt, vice president of philanthropy for DU, said Miss K-State reaches out to organizations beyond Greek life.
“I emailed 67 organizations this year,” Harp said. “We don’t want to discriminate at all, because we want to celebrate every woman and not exclude anybody.”
Each woman is nominated by her organization to compete for the 2025 Miss K-State title and a monetary prize.
“Upon winning, they receive a $500 scholarship as well as a blank $200 check that they can send to any nonprofit that they want to,” Harp said.
Each contestant participated in three rounds of competition: Wildcat Pride, Talent and Career. The first round showcased each girl’s passion for K-State and her organization. Every contestant dressed in K-State pride and ignited the room with excitement as each group cheered on its representative. The talent round quickly followed and showcased various unique skills ranging from singing to juggling. The final round focused on career aspirations and how contestants represent them on stage. They were judged on their creativity and confidence throughout the competition by four female judges from various departments on campus.
After 2 hours of competition, Ashlynn Brady of Sigma Kappa was crowned 2025 Miss K-State. She said her DU coach, Thomas Patton, supported her throughout the competition.
“It was really fun!” Brady said. “He basically said yes to everything, and we committed to the bit. We did everything, and he was a great confidence booster along the way — super encouraging.”
Brady’s favorite part of the competition was her Wildcat Pride round, where she dressed as Bill Synder — wig cap and all.
“It was really funny, and then just getting to speak from my heart about why Sigma Kappa has been an important part of my college experience,” Brady said.
She is an active member of the K-State community and recommends girls considering competing to start getting involved in their community. She is a Cat’s Cupboard ambassador, as well as a Girls on the Run coach, which has allowed her to volunteer, reach out and connect with the community.
“Don’t be afraid to go out and try new things, new experiences and be a leader in the community,” Brady said. “That’s what gave me the confidence — the volunteering and meeting new people. It became a foundation to be able to represent on stage as well.”
Brady will continue volunteering her time at Cat’s Cupboard throughout her time in Miss K-State role, alongside studying to finish her degree in May 2026.