Modesty, frugality is important to Miss New York City

From here she's going on to finish her schooling, enjoy being married and one day perhaps dance with Ballet West as a professional.

"It was more important to me to share the gospel than to win," she said. "Every day we had conversations about what I was wearing. It was such a neat experience."

Nelson said all members of the board must remain neutral regarding who becomes the state representative, so the encouragement he gave Wright was no different than that he would offer any young woman in whom he recognized such talent and potential.

"I knew that as a result, that simply by participating she would contribute to her community, win scholarship to continue her studies and grow in ways that were immeasurable," he said. "After she did participate in our state pageant, I knew my instincts were right. She is not only talented but a genuine, giving and a very special young woman.

"Anyone who has been fortunate enough to see her dance and/or learn from her (did you know she has volunteered with kids in Harlem to teach dance?) is indeed lucky."