Claps, cheers, hugs, smiles and a few jumps filled the Student Center Ballroom stage at the 42nd annual BUS Renaissance Ball as the new king, queen, prince and princess were crowned Wednesday night.

Devin Butler and Taylor Shubeta took over the reign of king and queen. Stephen Phillips and Angelique Tyus were selected as prince and princess.

Butler said he had difficulty finding words and admitted he was going to cry a little bit.

“Honestly, it’s probably one of the larger honors I’ve ever had in my life,” Butler said. “I can’t wait to present it to somebody else next year because I think that’s the only thing that could possibly feel better, is giving this to someone else.”

Kasai Carter, 2009 Renaissance Ball queen, said although it was bittersweet, she was excited to pass on the crown to someone who earned it.

She said she hopes the court uses their reign to get involved.

“My advice would be to use this opportunity, use this experience to better your college career like I did,” Carter said.

Seven student and faculty judges assessed contestants after they performed in group dances, displayed their individual talents, modeled formal wear and answered interview questions.

Danea Rhodes, BUS programmer and 2007 Renaissance Ball princess, said she was happy with how things came together.

“I think it went good,” Rhodes said. “The contestants were able to get up there and do their talents. The crowd was very supportive of all of them.”

The pageant was followed by a ball for everyone who attended.

Sparkle Thomas, freshman pre-nursing major, said she came to support some of the people in the pageant.

“It’s a way to showcase our talents… and show that we are good at something,” Thomas said.

For more information on the Renaissance Ball and its history, click here.