Newly Crowned Miss St. Croix Earns Scholarship to Attend Monroe

We have exciting news from the U.S. Virgin Islands: Amenti Philip, the newly crowned Miss St. Croix for 2025-2026, has been awarded a full-tuition scholarship to attend Monroe, transforming her pageant win into a life-changing educational opportunity.

The scholarship underscores Monroe’s ongoing commitment to expanding access to higher education and supporting young leaders who demonstrate academic achievement, public engagement, and a strong dedication to community. 

At just 20 years old, Amenti is already a shining example of those qualities. A resident of Strawberry Hill, St. Croix since the age of three, she describes the community as a place that has “truly become home.” A 2023 graduate of St. Croix Educational Complex High School, she is widely known as a positive presence who inspires those around her.

As the 73rd Miss St. Croix Festival Queen, Amenti shared her gratitude for the opportunity, calling it more than financial support. For her, the scholarship is a powerful affirmation of the importance of education, leadership, and service. She expressed pride in representing St. Croix and the Virgin Islands and looks forward to continuing her academic journey while giving back to her community in meaningful ways. She also extended thanks to the Miss St. Croix Festival Queen Pageant Committee and the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism for their belief in young women like herself.

Amenti plans to pursue a degree in Hospitality Management at Monroe, with long-term goals of working in the tourism industry to help build a stronger, more vibrant St. Croix. She hopes to positively impact both visitors and residents by contributing to the island’s continued growth and development. Studying abroad has long been a personal dream, and she is grateful to see that dream becoming reality through this opportunity. Monroe’s Admissions team is currently assisting her through the application process so she can begin her studies after completing her tenure as Miss St. Croix.

Leaders across the territory have applauded the milestone. Under the leadership of Commissioner Jennifer Matarangas-King, the Department of Tourism continues to champion initiatives that empower young women beyond the stage through education and personal growth. Representatives from the Pageant Committee have also praised the partnership, noting that investments in higher education help shape future leaders and reinforce the value of academic excellence.

Founded more than 90 years ago in the Bronx, Monroe University has grown into a globally engaged institution with a strong presence in the Caribbean, including its campus in Saint Lucia. Through regional partnerships and career-focused programs, the University remains committed to supporting talent development and workforce advancement throughout the Caribbean.

As she embarks on her reign, Amenti plans to use her platform to encourage younger residents to prioritize education and view postsecondary studies as a pathway to personal and professional growth. With a crown on her head and a scholarship ahead of her, she is stepping confidently into her future and inspiring others to do the same.

Monroe University will hold a celebration of Coach Brustad’s milestone at its New Rochelle, NY campus.