Shippensburg’s Elite Modeling Troupe hosted the HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) Homecoming, a night celebrating Black excellence. The event was held in Memorial Auditorium and featured music from BOOGZONDABEAT. 

The performance began with the models standing in the first five rows of the audience, allowing the crowd to see their dance and modeling skills up close. The group was all wearing matching red leotards and their iconic six-inch black platform heels. 

The troupe disappeared behind the curtains of the stage before a few models stepped back out to perform in a recurring skit called “HBCU Homecoming 101.” The skit featured the models talking about their performance while hyping up the audience. It often served as a transition between the different runway and dance segments. 

Following the skit, the first runway segment began. The Elite Modeling Troupe changed into new outfits, consisting of sparkling miniskirts and black tops. Each model cat walked down the stage and was met with cheers and applause from the audience. 

Next, the troupe split into two teams: red and silver. Models wore a black jumpsuit, with either red or silver accents to show which team they were on. They performed a dance battle as the stage lights changed to half red, half white. 

The lights changed to green as the next runway segment began. The models walked out wearing camouflage, either as skirts, shirts or jackets. 

After the troupe completed their catwalk, the intermission began. Maya Royale danced, prompting even more cheers from the audience. 

The Elite Modeling Troupe returned to the stage for their own dance number, this time spotting matching black leotards with glittering sleeves. 

Another runway and dance number followed, with the audience openly singing along and dancing to the music. There was an atmosphere of excitement and enthusiasm that only increased with every performance. 

The last performance featured the seniors of the Elite Modeling Troupe being celebrated. The four models had their own moment on the runway before taking a final bow together. 

The audience erupted in applause, much like they did during other key moments of the event. It was clear that the event did as intended, which was bringing together people to celebrate Black excellence, along with fashion and dance. 

“It represents a small fraction of the campus and it got everyone together, student Layla Duggan said, ” 

The event concluded with all the models walking down to the audience and inciting everyone to join them in a dance party, once again emphasizing the theme of community and togetherness. 

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