Senior Gloria Zawadi, was chosen Roosevelt High School’s Rose Festival Princess in March. After graduation she plans to major in psychology at a university and then work as a clinical psychologist.
Gloria Zawadi, Roosevelt High.
Zawadi plays tennis and is president of Roosevelt’s Black Student Union. She participates in the African Club and Upward Bound, along with many other activities. She loves dancing and writing.
When asked to name her favorite place to visit in Portland, she said, “Columbia Park because it is a place where I hold a lot of memories and is very dear to me. I learned how to swim for the first time at Columbia Pool and frequently spent time on the swings and play structure when we would visit the park in elementary school on walking field trips.”
Jefferson High School’s Rose Festival Princess is Janiya Thompson, also a senior. She plans to major in graphic design then work in illustration/animation or marketing/media design.
Janiya Thompson for Jefferson High
Thompson participates in mock trial, choir and theater, among other activities, and loves to make art in her free time.
When asked to name her favorite place to visit in Portland, she responded, “I love visiting Mississippi Street for its vibrant mix of experiences, entertainment, and great food. Whether I’m with friends or exploring on my own, it always offers new adventures and feels like a perfect representation of Portland.”
Princesses are selected through a combination of student body voting, community judging, and interviews.
Starting in May the Rose Festival Court travels around Oregon full-time for five weeks visiting senior living centers, hospitals, youth organizations, community events and more.
Each princess also receives a $3,500 scholarship valid for any accredited college, university or trade program.
Ultimately, in June one of 15 princesses is crowned queen and represents Portland and the Rose Festival for one year at appearances around the country and abroad. When choosing a queen, judges consider each court member’s leadership and scholarship achievement, school activities, civic involvement, volunteer service, communication skills and overall impression.
