By Mike Finney

DOVER — Tetra Shockley hasn’t always embodied the success that she’s been enjoying lately.

Actually, she looks back at the time she failed out of Delaware State University as a turning point and hasn’t let that obstacle get in her way.

So, on Oct. 24, when she takes the stage to represent Delaware in the Miss USA 2025 pageant, she will bring part of the university with her. As a member of the school’s board of trustees, she’ll be the only representative of the nation’s more than 100 historically Black colleges and universities there.

To signify the connection, one of Ms. Shockley’s outfits for the event is inspired by the Hornet mascot, which she said symbolizes the DSU community.

“The Hornet represents perseverance, pride and the power to rise again,” she explained. “My connection to DSU is deeply personal. … I once failed out of the university, but I refused to let that be the end of my story.

“I returned, earned my degree and now have the honor of serving as a trustee. Just like the Hornet, I embody determination and purpose.”

Earlier this year, upon her Miss Delaware USA crowning, Ms. Shockley made history by becoming the first married woman and mother to earn the spot, at age 44.

“This moment isn’t just about me. It’s about every woman who has ever been told she’s too old, too different, too late,” she said. “The truth is, you are right on time.

“I don’t care what your situation and circumstance look like right now. If it is a dream in your heart, it can come to pass.”

She said she now finds herself living out her own wishes, and more so.

“Competing for Miss USA is more than a dream — it’s a divine assignment,” Ms. Shockley continued. “For me, this journey is about showing that, with God, delay doesn’t mean denial.

“As a wife, mother, attorney and minister, stepping onto the Miss USA stage is a testament that no season of life disqualifies you from destiny.”

DSU president Dr. Tony Allen agreed, adding that her story reflects the university’s mission to transform lives through access, opportunity and excellence.

“Tetra Shockley represents everything our grand institution stands for — a warrior spirit whose trials built a steely endurance and determination, and now stands as a clear testament to the power of faith to encourage and inspire others, regardless of their circumstances,” he said.

“She embodies our motto, ‘May all who enter enter to learn and go forth to serve.’”

Beyond the courtroom and the stage, Ms. Shockley is the founder of You Are the Crown, a nonprofit that empowers women and girls to discover their identities and platforms for impact.

She and her husband of 20 years, Jerome Shockley, are the parents of two children, Tierra Shockley (18) and Jaden Shockley (14).

Looking back to her win at the state level in June — when she became the first Miss Delaware USA over 30 — she believes it signaled a new chapter for representation in the Miss USA system.

“For every woman who thought she aged out of her dream, this crown is for you,” Ms. Shockley noted. “There’s no deadline on purpose.”

The Oct. 24 pageant will be streamed on the Queen Beauty Network at 8 p.m.

Staff writer Mike Finney can be reached at 302-741-8230 or mfinney@iniusa.org.