From Campus to Crown: SUU Student Represents Iron County at Miss Utah
Published: July 18, 2026 | Author: Tanner Gardiner | Read Time: 2 minutes
CEDAR CITY, Utah - Southern Utah University senior Shelby Dawn Springall successfully balanced demanding, upper-division science courses with state-level pageant preparation during her recent run for the Miss Utah title.
Springall, who represented the University and region as the reigning Miss Iron County, completed her degree in nutrition with a pre-dental emphasis alongside minors in biology and chemistry.
As part of the Miss America Opportunity, contestants select a Community Service Initiative (CSI). Springall's platform is "STEAM: Finding Your Sparkle," which focuses on science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.
"As a pre-dental nutrition major with biology and chemistry minors, I have seen firsthand how a STEAM education can provide young people with the skills, confidence, and opportunities to pursue their dreams," said Springall. "I intentionally include the 'A' for Arts because I believe creativity and innovation go hand in hand. When we engage both the analytical and creative sides of the brain, learning becomes more meaningful, memorable, and impactful."
"Being one of only a few women in some of my advanced science courses has inspired me to be a role model for young girls," Springall said.
For the on-stage talent portion of the competition, Springall performed speed painting. Her routine required her to perform choreography while completing an upside-down portrait in 90 seconds.At this year's Miss Utah competition, her performance featured a portrait of Dolly Parton set to a remix of the song 9 to 5. The choice connects directly to Springall's community service focus. For this, she is collaborating with the Utah STEM Action Center to raise awareness for Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, an initiative centered on childhood literacy and educational access.
Reflecting on her time at SUU, Springall has found the Homecoming Parade and the Carter Carillon Bell Tower to be her favorite campus traditions. Managing her course load alongside her responsibilities as Miss Iron County, her preparation for Miss Utah, and her employment as an orthodontic assistant has required dedication and personal growth.
"For a long time, I felt like I needed to have everything together all the time," Springall said. "Through this experience, I've learned that it's okay to not have it all figured out. It's okay to be human. Rather than trying to fit into the stereotype of what people think a pageant contestant should be, I've learned to simply be myself."
When asked what advice she would offer to incoming freshmen, Springall emphasized the importance of being persistent with being involved in campus activities.
"Give yourself grace while you're finding your footing and, most importantly, don't give up," Springall said. "Go to events, join organizations, introduce yourself to people, and say yes to opportunities that may seem a little scary. Dig into the uncomfortable because that's often where the greatest growth happens."
Contact Information
Brooke Heath
435-586-5400
brookeheath1@suu.edu