TCU broadcast journalism student Kendall Morris was among the top-10 finalists on Friday in the 2012 Miss America Pageant at the Planet Hollywood Resort & casino in Las Vegas.

But Morris, who was crowned Miss Texas in July 2011 on her second year of competition, did not leave empty-handed. Two days earlier in a preliminary round, she won the Lifestyle and Fitness competition, wearing a Monte Carlo Kompliqué swimsuit. She receives a $1,000 scholarship. Morris posed with Miss Oklahoma Betty Thompson, who won the talent portion of the prelims with an Irish step dance performance. (photo below)

The competition capped off a busy week of activities for Morris and the other 52 contestants. Leading up to the final night, they flipped pancakes to raise money for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, enjoyed a special performance of “Phantom: The Las Vegas Spectacular” at the Venetian Resort Hotel & Casino and walked the runway decked out in beautiful designs provided by EXPRES at the Fashion Mall on Las Vegas Boulevard.

A 20-year-old from Ennis, Morris will continue her 12-month reign as Miss Texas, including a speaking tour with as many as 400 appearances. As Miss Texas, Morris received a $10,000 college scholarship and an Infiniti vehicle for one year.

No stranger to the public eye, Morris was the baton twirler with the TCU Marching Band at the 2011 Rose Bowl Game.

On the Web:
Kendall Morris wins prelim Lifestyle and Fitness round – MissAmerica.org
Kendall Morris wins 2011 Miss Texas competition
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