Xavier Turner and Angela Lee were announced as the new Mr. and Ms. UAB at the homecoming game Saturday.

The Mr. and Ms. UAB scholarship contest has been a UAB tradition since 1981. The two winners are chosen through numerous rounds of interviews and a student vote. Mr. and Ms. UAB are not only given a $2,500 scholarship each, but they will serve as representatives for UAB on the Student Alumni Society Leadership Council for the next year.

Xavier Turner

Turner is a junior double majoring in political science and criminal justice. After he graduates, Turner hopes to attend law school and pursue a career in criminal defense.

An interesting fact about Turner is that he has been a vegetarian for almost four years.

Turner said his favorite thing about UAB is that “all students are given the opportunity to be 100% and authentically themselves.”

“You can embrace all facets of your background while learning in this melting pot of diversity,” Turner said about UAB.

However, things UAB have looked a lot different since COVID-19, and Turner said he misses being in person.

“I miss being able to connect with new people at physical, social events,” Turner said. “Although that aspects have been limited, I am able to still engage with my peers through virtual programming.”

Being a student leader, Turner said he wants to use his platform to encourage students.

“I want to be able to impact the community and inspire students that your past does not define you,” Turner said. “You are stronger than any obstacles that are put in your way, and you have so much potential to change the world.”

Angela Lee

Ms. UAB, Angela Lee is a junior with a double major in chemistry and mathematics. After graduation, she is interested in exploring other countries and observing how the (hopefully) post-COVID life has impacted people’s daily life and communities.

“Otherwise, I also want to soak up rays in Hawaii with my family before (hopefully again) heading off to medical school,” Lee said.

An interesting fact about Lee is that she dyed her hair golden blonde to show school spirit for homecoming.

Lee said her favorite thing about UAB is its how progressive it is with over 250 student organizations and continuous campus development.

“The opportunities to discover your interests are limitless while new campus facilities make UAB an exciting place to explore,” Lee said.

COVID-19 has limited some of those opportunities, however, and some things just aren’t the same.

“I can’t decide if I miss the thrill of making new friends or giving people hugs more,” Lee said.

Lee said that she is passionate about bettering campus relations and the student experience.

“I believe that the position of Ms. UAB can do more for students by educating the community on the purpose of the Alumni Society and involving UAB members in these special events,” Lee said. “I would utilize my experience in outreach to address student wants and needs in an effort to create new and lasting campus traditions.”