Former Miss America: Ericka Dunlap

Tune in August 26, 2013, as Stacey Brewer of H. Blu's Word speaks with former Miss America (2004) Ericka Dunlap.

Ericka will speak on becoming Jet's newest "Beauty of the Week," her latest projects, her experience as Miss America, and lastly her thoughts on the deep seeded biases and attitudes about skin color, which have been said to exist within the beauty industry and the entertainment industry. We will specifically explore how "dark skinned" women are viewed in such industries. Ericka will also share her views on how black women are portrayed on television, particularly reality television.

In 2004, Ericka Dunlap was crowned Miss America becoming the seventh African American woman to hold the title. Dunlap's platform was "United We Stand, Divided We Fall Behind: Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion." Dunlap appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show, Hollywood Squares, Live With Regis and Kelly, and Fox News’ The O'Reilly Factor. Ericka has also appeared in a number of movies, one of them being District 9.

Currently, Ericka is a Public Relations Specialist and has formed Crown Jewel Consulting. Her charitable organization, The Crown Jewel Foundation, promotes social development skills and image awareness in young girls. She continues to travel as a special guest speaker as well as developing her entrepreneurial interests in her hometown of Orlando, Florida.

Follow Ericka Dunlap

Follow Hampton Blu