CHARLEVOIX — With a beaming smile and bouquet of roses in hand, Brooklin Schwenke was crowned the 2025 Miss Charlevoix Venetian Queen on Wednesday, July 23 during a packed coronation ceremony at East Park’s Odmark Performance Pavilion.
The annual competition, a highlight of Venetian Festival week, celebrates young women who demonstrate poise, leadership and a commitment to community. Schwenke, visibly moved as her name was announced, also earned the title of Miss Congeniality and best speech.
Outgoing queen Avery Kita placed the crown atop Schwenke’s head, officially passing on the title and the responsibility of representing Charlevoix throughout the year. As queen, Schwenke will serve as a community ambassador, attending events across Northern Michigan.
Alessandra Jess was named first runner-up, clapping her hands as the results were announced. Sloan Hayes was named second runner-up.
Candidates were judged on essays, persuasive speeches and both panel and personal interviews — all conducted by judges from outside the Charlevoix community.
The competition, rooted in tradition and service, is scholarship-based. Schwenke will receive a $3,000 scholarship at the end of her reign to use toward her education. Jess and Hayes earned $1,000 and $500 respectively. Additional $500 and $250 scholarships were awarded for best essay and best speech, while Schwenke also earned $250 as Miss Congeniality.
The Venetian Queen Competition is organized by the Charlevoix Venetian Festival and funded by community donations. It is considered a “must-see” event, drawing friends, family and festivalgoers alike.
This year’s candidates included Clara Wallis, Genevieve Tuck, Alessandra Jess, Kiera Bonney, Kristy Cordova, Abigail Wise, Abigail Potter, Sloan Hayes and Brooklin Schwenke.
— Contact reporter Annie Doyle at 231-675-0099 or adoyle@charlevoixcourier.com
This article originally appeared on The Petoskey News-Review: Brooklin Schwenke crowned 2025 Charlevoix Venetian Queen
Reporting by Annie Doyle, The Petoskey News-Review / The Petoskey News-Review
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