Following in the footsteps of her two older sisters, Emily Wills (freshman-psychology) captured the Miss Penn State crown Saturday night.

Her sisters Melissa Wills (senior-speech communication) and Amy Wills, a Penn State alumna, were Miss Penn State in 1999 and first runner-up in 2000, respectively.

After the 15 contestants were introduced, they competed in segments on swimwear, artistic expression and eveningwear. Talent included vocal renditions, dance routines, baton twirling, gymnastics, theater pieces and instrumentals.

"The level of talent every year seems to be getting better and better," Melissa Frank-Alston, co-executive director, said. "The pageant itself was phenomenal."

Wills, the winner, had a platform of "Mentoring and Volunteering for America's Youth." Her winnings include a $1,200 scholarship, a yearbook scholarship and perks such as photo sessions and fitness packages.

"She is very personable, has outstanding talent and is very well-rounded," Frank-Alston said of Wills.

The first runner-up was Libby Montiel (senior-music education), the second runner-up was Lauren Kenny (sophomore-communication disorders), the third runner-up was Bobbi Jo Solomon (junior-recreation park management) and the fourth runner-up was Valerie Abati (senior-meteorology).

"It was a fun experience and an enjoyable group of girls," Abati said.

She said a majority of the contestants put in a lot of time preparing for the event.

Several other awards were given out, including the academic award, which Kristen Buben (sophomore-elementary education) won. Abati won the quality of life award, which is given for excellence in volunteering across the community. Miss Congeniality was awarded to Solomon.

Buben also won the artistic expression award, Jeannine Patrick (junior-management) won the swimwear and eveningwear awards and Marisa Kichline (junior-secondary education) won the advertising award.

Everyone who competed has the opportunity to vie for more than $40 million in scholarships.

"The event went very well and the audience enjoyed the show," said Debra Swarner, co-executive director of the Miss Penn State competition.

The Miss Penn State Scholarship Organization is an official Penn State student organization and it hosts this event as a local preliminary to the Miss Pennsylvania and Miss America Scholarship Pageants.