South Carolina High School Crowns First Black Homecoming Queen in 155 Years

Student leader and aspiring children’s book author Amber Wilsondebriano made history when she became the first-ever Black homecoming queen at her 155-year-old high school.

Amber is one of the top students at Porter-Gaud, a prep school in Charleston, South Carolina, according to USA Today. The senior has a 4.66 GPA and is the founder of her school’s Black Excellence Society.

"There are less than 10 Black people in my senior class," Amber told the outlet. "When we have our meetings, every Black student in the school can fit in one classroom."

In addition to founding the society, the teenager is also a co-leader for her school’s Chinese club and art club. Next year, she plans to attend the Savannah College of Art and Design and major in painting.

“Amber is smart, funny and has always been a friend to anyone she meets," her mother, Monique Wilsondebriano, told WGME. "The fact that these kids, most of whom do not look like her, saw something special in Amber and voted her to be their homecoming queen, means the world to us."

Wilsondebriano told USA Today that it was “not surprising” that her daughter won the homecoming crown.

While her mother expected the win, Amber shared she had reservations about her likelihood of winning despite being grateful for her classmates' support.

“I was elated the whole night. My peers made me feel special for the day."

The teenager also said that she felt like her homecoming victory was an achievement she could share with younger children.

“On Homecoming night, I took so many pictures with young Black children, and I want them to look at me and believe that this is something that is attainable for them,” she told WCBD.

"My win is not just for me … it’s for all of the younger kids.”