Gi Gi Cooks '26 Crowned Miss Juneteenth 2026

University School of Milwaukee senior Gi Gi Cooks '26 was crowned Miss Juneteenth 2026 at the 55th Annual Juneteenth Scholarship Pageant presented by the Northcott Neighborhood House. This long-standing Milwaukee tradition celebrates the academic excellence, artistic talent, and community leadership of African American youth.

As part of the application process, Cooks submitted a 250-word essay focused on the theme of "honoring the past and empowering the future." For Cooks, serving as Miss Juneteenth is an opportunity to inspire young people in Milwaukee and participate in service activities to build community. 

“Miss Juneteenth means being an inspiration to people, it means being the best you can be,” said Cooks. “It means trying to inspire and give people an image of what they can be if they work hard, if they have faith, and if they really just love themselves and love life.”

At USM, Cooks was a dedicated member of the varsity track and field team, competing in both shot put and discus. Beyond athletics, she is a talented singer and artist, having participated in several musicals during her time at USM as well as performing the national anthem during sporting events. Earlier this year, she showcased her academic depth during her Tower Project presentation titled, "Students with Special Needs: Finding Personal Satisfaction in the Classroom and in Life through Art Therapy." 

Cooks was recently profiled by TMJ4 News for being crowned Miss Juneteenth. She and her court will be featured in Milwaukee’s annual Juneteenth Day Parade on Friday, June 19, 2026.