More than just a face

The start of a bright career kicked off with heartbreak. At 10-years-old, Kelly Lloyd went home empty-handed from her first experience in the world of talent pageantry. The tears that rolled down her checks that day turned into motivation because 15 years later, that same girl strutted her stuff and went home as Miss Indiana USA 2002. \nAlong the way, Lloyd had a few bumps in the road. Jealous high school classmates and stiff competition hindered her for only moments as the talented Lloyd impressed judge after judge with her smooth dance steps, bright smile, and captivating personality.\nNow Lloyd has found a home at IU. The first year IU law student relinquished her crown Sunday after reigning as Miss Indiana USA for the past year. Lloyd had been competing in pageantry since her early teens, but after her most recent stint, she is now retired.\n"It was rewarding, but exhausting," Lloyd said. "Other students have had the luxury of catching up on sleep or going out with friends during the weekend. I didn't have that, until now."\nDuring her term as Miss Indiana USA, Lloyd made numerous appearances, often schmoozing with the likes of Deon Sanders, Reggie Miller, and 1996 Miss USA, Ali Landry. Lloyd's appearances often brought her to schools, public arenas, and hospitals. \nSanders and Associates Public relations director Jennifer Watkins were in charge of organizing Lloyd's appearance schedule while she was Miss Indiana USA. Watkins said she had to meet a large demand on Lloyd's time.\n"People just couldn't get enough of her," Watkins said. "She would sign thousands of autographs, speak with people at length, and never say no to any of it. She's just one of those people who is always smiling."\nAn Indianapolis native, the 25-year-old graduate of Ball State University has touched many lives. \n"Sometimes when I'm out eating pancakes at IHOP I don't expect someone to ask for my autograph, but they do," Lloyd said. "You just have to be aware of what you are doing in public and that you are a role model because kids will recognize you."\nLloyd was one of only two women to compete in all three of the nationally televised pageants. She made history and was named a "Triple Crown" winner when she competed in Miss Teen USA, Miss America and Miss USA.\nIn order to help future pageant contestants prepare for competition, Lloyd offers her expertise. Lloyd's company, Triple Crown Consulting, allows Lloyd to keep a foot in the door of the pageant industry.\n"I have so many years of pageant experience that I have decided to help others achieve what I already have," Lloyd said. "It's really nice to meet with others and help them try to reach their goals."\nThe Miss USA 2002 pageant, which was held in Indiana, was the site of one of Lloyd's favorite pageant memories, she said.\n"Being in Indiana and standing on the stage on live national television was unbelievable," Lloyd said. "The roar of the crowd was deafening. I've never felt so supported and encouraged in my life."\nThe contestant representing Iowa in the pageant went on stage after Lloyd.\n"Miss Iowa said she hated coming out after me, because every time they would say my name the entire crowd would go nuts," Lloyd said. "There was so much electricity in the air. It was very cool."\nLloyd was named 1st runner-up to Miss Teen USA 1993, and 2nd runner-up to Miss USA in 2002.\nEven with her many achievements Lloyd has remained grounded. She often walks around campus, trying to conceal her identity as a former Miss Indiana USA, Lloyd said.\n"She's never changed or had a big head," said Lloyd's mother, Becki. "She's always been very humble about her titles and been grateful for her achomplishments. It's just her nature to be a nice person and that's what I'm most proud of."\nWith her pageantry days behind her, Lloyd is focused on finishing law school and having the 'college experience' she sacrificed by being involved in pageantry, she said.\nAfter earning over $30,000 though her work in pageantry Lloyd and her family have learned from experience.\n"The days of pageant 'bubble heads' are over," Lloyd said. "It's not just about looks, you have to have a brain in your head and something good to say. You have to always remember, no matter what titles you hold, you are always just a spokesperson"