lakefair royalty
& scholarship program
sponsored by:
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The Royalty tradition began with the first Lakefair in 1957, and the Scholarship Program was established years later in 1975 by Capitalarian Dee Hooper. It continues to be one of the most recognized scholarship programs in the Pacific Northwest and has awarded more than $500,000 in funding to date. The program is currently sponsored by our partners at Olympia Federal Savings.
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Members of the Royalty Court participate in all aspects of Capital Lakefair throughout the season. It provides an educational opportunity for participants to learn about themselves, our community and prepare for higher education and adult life. In addition to local events, members visit communities around the Pacific Northwest from Oregon to British Columbia as they travel with the Lakefair Float to other festivals.
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Each member of the Court receives a $3,000 scholarship, the Queen an additional $2,000, and remaining candidates $500 each. The funds may be applied to any form of higher education including a traditional degree, trade school or vocational training program.
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The process begins with each participating school selecting a representative by December to become their candidate for the Royalty Court. In early February, candidates take part in a one-day event that includes a panel discussion, individual interviews with 5 independent judges from the business community, and a speech on a predetermined subject. Once complete, five young women will be nominated at Coronation to serve on the Court, one of which is named Lakefair Queen.
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Complete information on the program and how to apply is available from the local high school counselors or career center. Prerequisite requirements are being a fully enrolled high school junior, 3.3 or better GPA, complete application with two letters of recommendation and a 500 word essay.
Queen Aisha Kamboj - Tumwater High School
Aisha is the daughter of Aseem and Mini Kamboj, and she’s no stranger to hard work and dedication. With 11 years of dance training under her belt, Aisha is currently focused on contemporary and jazz, while also having studied ballet, hip-hop, lyrical, and acrobatics in the past.
Academically, Aisha continues to challenge herself with a rigorous course load, including three Advanced Placement (AP) classes in Language Arts, Anatomy, and Physiology. She is an active member of HOSA – Future Health Professionals, reflecting her passion for the medical field and her goals of studying Biology and Pharmacy in college.
You will see Queen Aisha throughout the year, whether she’s leading our parade, volunteering at community events, or representing Lakefair with grace and pride during festival week.
Princess Ellie Brown - Capital High School
Ellie Brown, representing Capital High School. Ellie is the daughter of Anthony and Sharon Brown.
A passionate and multi-talented student, Ellie is actively involved in her school’s band program. She made the impressive switch from trumpet to French horn and taught herself how to play! Beyond music, she enjoys reading, playing basketball and soccer, and even practices archery in her spare time.
Academically, Ellie is a standout. She is currently immersed in a rigorous schedule of five International Baccalaureate (IB) courses: History of the Americas, Literature, Japanese, Chemistry, and Calculus. Her dedication to learning is matched by her ambition. Ellie plans to pursue a degree in Psychology, with the ultimate goal of becoming a clinical psychologist.
With her drive, intelligence, and well-rounded talents, Ellie is definitely one to watch!
Princess Carmela Parascand - Black Hills High School
Carmela Parascand proudly represents Black Hills High School as our next 2025 Capital Lakefair Royalty Ambassador! Carmela is the daughter of Matthew and Megan Parascand.
A dynamic student and community leader, Carmela is actively involved in tennis, bowling, the Girls Outreach Program, and Link Crew. When not participating in Lakefair events, Carmela enjoys baking (we’ve been lucky enough to sample some delicious treats!) and creating beautiful macrame art.
Currently enrolled in the Running Start program at SPSCC, Carmela is taking courses in Communications and Nutrition, with plans to pursue a degree in Political Science.
Fun fact: Carmela shares their home with a dog named Dante and a turtle named Tony, two very important members of the family!
Princess Jazzlyn Shumate - Rainier
Jazzlyn Shumate, representing Rainier, Washington. A student at Rainier High School, Jazzlyn is also dual-enrolled at Centralia College through the Running Start program. She is the proud daughter of Jessica and Travis Smith.
A passionate athlete, Jazzlyn thrives on the track, currently competing in the 100-meter hurdles, 200 meters, 400 meters, and 4x400 relays. Her love for sports extends beyond track, she also excels in basketball, volleyball, and cross country.
Determined and ambitious, Jazzlyn plans to graduate from high school with her Associate’s Degree and pursue a career as a Livestock Veterinarian. Known for her upbeat energy and love for connecting with others, Jazzlyn brings joy, spirit, and leadership wherever she goes.
Princess Jayleen Totten - Rochester
Jayleen Totten, representing Rochester, Washington. Jayleen is the daughter of Stefanie Hanson and Jason Totten.
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Jayleen’s energy and commitment shine through in everything they do. On Friday nights, you’ll find them on the football field, bringing spirit and enthusiasm as a member of the cheer squad. They’re also a dedicated athlete on the varsity track and field team, participating in the discus, shotput, Javelin, and relay.
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In addition to her athletic involvement, Jayleen is a true leader at school. She is currently serving as the ASB Vice President, FBLA Treasurer, and FFA Competitions, for Parliamentary Procedures, and public speaking. If that wasn’t impressive enough, Jayleen also manages a part-time job, balancing it all with a positive, can-do attitude.
Jayleen’s drive, leadership, and unwavering willingness to lend a hand make them a standout member of this year’s Capital Lakefair Royalty.