08/09/2026
MEET THE VISIONARIES: MISS BLACK USA JUDGES PANEL 👑✨
The runway is set, the lights are blazing, and the brilliance is unmatched! We are thrilled to announce the powerhouse icons stepping into the judges’ circle for this year’s Miss Black USA Pageant. These three industry titans embody the very essence of Black excellence, culture-shifting leadership, and unapologetic representation. Swipe through the gallery to meet the masterminds crowning our next queen! 👉🏾
✨ First up, “The Makeup Maestro”: DERRICK RUTLEDGE. From crafting early iconic looks for Beyoncé to spending 18 months in the White House as the daily makeup artist for First Lady Michelle Obama, Derrick’s genius is legendary. As the exclusive visionary behind media mogul Oprah Winfrey, his trendsetting artistry has graced the silver screen and countless global magazine covers. He is the ultimate definition of glamour!
✨ Next, the culture-shifting executive: ERIKA GUINN. Hailing from Inglewood, California, Erika is the Vice President of Brand Marketing and Community for NYX Professional Makeup. She is the mastermind behind massive viral global movements and ground-breaking collaborations with superstars like Megan Thee Stallion and Saweetie. With over 25 years of mastery, she is dedicated to ensuring Black women are seen, celebrated, and elevated on the world stage.
✨ Finally, the kingmaker & HBCU leader: DR. KEVIN J. WADE. Bringing true Southern charm and nearly 20 years of pageant production mastery, Dr. Wade is an international image consultant and the Founder & CEO of Royalty Essentials. A proud HBCU graduate, former Mr. ECSU, and current Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, he has coached dozens of national titleholders while providing over $120,000 in scholarships. He knows exactly what it takes to build a queen!