Cultured Pearls Debutante Cotillion

The formal presentation of young ladies into society has been one of the major goals for Xi Upsilon Omega Chapter.  The first Debutante Cotillion Ball was held on November 23, 1985 at the Sheraton Resort and Conference Center in Fredericksburg, Virginia.  Following this successful event, Cotillions followed from 1987 to 2017 presenting outstanding Debutantes to the greater Fredericksburg community.

The goals of each Cotillion are to promote scholarship in young women; prepare young ladies in the social graces and cultural acumen; present young ladies to society; and raise money for AKA community service projects and scholarships.  Because of this, the Cotillion has maintained a long-standing history of high scholastic achievement. Ninety-eight percent (98%) of the Debutantes presented have entered colleges and universities throughout the United States. As a major fundraiser for the Chapter’s community service projects and area scholarships through the Sisters of Ivy Educational Foundation, the process also provides Debutantes scholarships ranging from $500 to $12,500 as funds raised through the Debutante process are evenly divided between the Debutante for their personal academic endeavors and the Chapter’s Community activities.

The Cotillion has not only been a vehicle for scholarship, but it has also been a means by which Debutantes can provide service to the community. The Debutante program consists of workshops, current event discussions, college preparation, and other activities designed to promote sisterhood.  In addition, the Debutantes have the opportunity to interact with community leaders and establish mentors who are interested in their future development.

The highest fundraiser is crowned Miss Debutante. Her court consists of the next three highest fundraisers.  Miss Congeniality is selected from the corps of Debutantes by popular vote.  Another honor given is Miss Academic, which is awarded to the Debutante with the highest grade point average among the corps of debutantes.  The Chapter delights in acknowledging their awards and accomplishments.

Xi Upsilon Omega Chapter will host the Cultured Pearls Debutante Cotillion on Saturday, November 18, 2023 at Fredericksburg Expo Center.  Tickets can be purchased, via EventBrite.