In an event that captures the spirit and tradition of university life, the University of Alabama announced its 2025 Homecoming Queen, sparking excitement across campus and beyond. But here’s where it gets interesting—the selection process and the story behind the winner reveal much more than just a title; they showcase personal journeys, community spirit, and the values upheld by the university community.
On a vibrant Friday night on the historic Quad in Tuscaloosa, Morgan Grzybowski, a senior studying biology from Wildwood, Missouri, was crowned during the university’s annual pep rally. The announcement was made by Chris Stewart, a familiar face as the host and sports commentator for Crimson Tide Sports Network. Out of five distinguished candidates representing the diverse student body, Grzybowski emerged as the standout, receiving her crown amidst cheers and applause.
Expressing her emotions briefly from the rally stage in front of Gorgas Library, Morgan admitted to feeling ‘speechless’—a testament to the honor and significance of this recognition. She and her fellow court members will parade through downtown Tuscaloosa and campus during the Saturday morning parade, which begins at Hudson Poole Fine Jewelers on Greensboro Avenue and winds through key landmarks, culminating in the halftime ceremony during the highly anticipated Alabama versus Oklahoma football game scheduled for 2:30 p.m.
The 2025 homecoming court comprises five talented individuals, each with unique backgrounds and academic pursuits:
– Sydney Blackhurst, a junior from Gilbert, Arizona, studying Accounting
– Morgan Grzybowski, a senior from Wildwood, Missouri, majoring in Biology
– Carrington Mills, a senior from Pelham, Alabama, pursuing Chemical Engineering
– Rachel Rybicki, a senior from Grosse Pointe Park, Michigan, double-majoring in Finance and Economics with a minor in Spanish
– Crawford West, a senior from Birmingham, Alabama, focusing on Public Health and enhancing his studies with a minor in Sales
Morgan shared her heartfelt motivations on UA’s official homecoming website, revealing that her journey was deeply personal. Her motivation stemmed from her younger sister’s diagnosis with type 1 diabetes, a life-altering event that turned their family’s world upside down. Morgan described how witnessing her sister’s struggles with needles and health uncertainties fostered a profound sense of empathy and resilience. She believes that compassion has become her greatest leadership tool.
Her involvement extends beyond personal motivation. As a member of the Alpha Chi Omega sorority, Morgan co-founded the Alabama Women’s Hockey Team to promote opportunities for women in sports, fostering an inclusive environment for female athletes. Additionally, she initiated the project ‘Dare to Diagnose,’ aimed at demonstrating that empathy is as vital in medicine as scientific expertise.
Morgan firmly states that authentic influence is measured by the way we care for others, and her candidacy for Homecoming Queen underscores her commitment to health, wellness, and compassion in everyday life. She expressed her desire to support the university’s initiative, Remote Area Medical (RAM), through the Homecoming Queen Endowed Impact Fund. RAM is a vital service providing medical care to underserved populations, aligning with her passion for service and community.
This story isn’t just about a title; it’s a celebration of empathy, leadership, and the ongoing effort to make a meaningful difference in society. But here’s a question to ponder—do you believe titles like Homecoming Queen truly reflect the qualities of impactful leadership, or are they just symbolic gestures? Share your thoughts and join the conversation.