Second Annual Mr. Renaissance Louisburg Held
Louisburg College held its Second Annual Mr. Renaissance Leadership Showcase on Friday,
February 28, at 6:30 p.m.
This year's showcase encompassed the theme of "Identity Theft" and was partitioned
so that each part mocked a crime case: "The Crime Scene" for Introductions; "The Investigation"
for Personality; "The Trial" for Oratory; and "The Closing Argument" for Q&A. During
the oratory showcase, each contestant (or "detective") discussed a moment in which
he felt he lost a part of his identity.
The contestants included Najad Daniels, Robert Magwood, Markissa Nelson, and Hayden
Michalak. The judges included Charity Maddox, Lorne Whitehead, Jr., Todd Porter II,
and Ryan Atwater, Jr. The event was hosted by Trevor Rudd, Nadia Bryant, Dylon O'Neal,
and Tania Kelly - who posed as emcee for the evening.
The night included many surprises such as appearances and messages from former Mr.
Renaissance contestants, performances alongside the Renaissance Leadership cohort,
and a special performance collaboration done alongside the Polished and Prepared Showcase
contestants and Warren County High School's "Platinum Ice" Auxiliary.
After witnessing the various performances and listening to the contestants' oratories
and pre-show interviews, the judges made their decisions. The 2025 Mr. Renaissance
Louisburg is Markiss Nelson, with the first runner-up going to Robert Magwood. Nelson
also won the 2025 Best Interview and People's Choice accolades. Najad Daniels won
the 2025 MVP Award.
Congratulations to all of the contestants and winners! Roll 'Canes!
This event was sponsored locally by Avendelle Assisted Living, Blossom Nutrition,
Capturing Memories with Elena Photography, First Choice Construction: Marvin Rudd
(Owner), Louisburg College's Business Office and Division of Student Life, Moore Printing
and Graphics, R3 Photography, Tailoring by Laura Richardson, Tar Banks Brewing Company,
Team Raynor Travel, The Rudd Family, and Warren County High School's "Platinum Ice"
Auxiliary. It was corporately sponsored by Cisco's Connected Black Professionals Group.
Thank you to all who have supported!
