2026 Debutante Cotillion Participant Application

 “Cultivated in Crimson: The Ascendance of a Queen” represents a journey of growth, resilience, and triumph. Crimson, a bold and vibrant hue, is more than just a color—it is a symbol of strength, passion, and the enduring legacy of womanhood.

To be cultivated is to be nurtured, guided, and refined with purpose. Each young woman who enters the Jabberwock experience begins as a seed full of potential. Through mentorship, education, and exposure to new opportunities, she is cultivated—rooted in tradition yet prepared to rise boldly into her future.

Ascendance is the moment of elevation—the crowning of her confidence, her voice, and her vision. It is the realization of her worth and the acknowledgment of her place in a lineage of queens and princesses who came before her. As she ascends, she steps into the fullness of her power, carrying with her the lessons of her journey and the promise of tomorrow.

Our 2026 theme reminds us that queens are not born overnight—they are cultivated through discipline, grace, perseverance, and love. The Jabberwock Cotillion is not simply an event, but a rite of passage that transforms potential into purpose, and young women into radiant leaders prepared to reign with wisdom, dignity, and compassion.

Application Deadline: December 6, 2025

E-Mail Address: FWACJabberwock@gmail.com

 Website: www.dstfwac.org

 

September 30, 2025

 

Dear Prospective Participant,

Thank you for your interest in the Fort Washington Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated’s 2026 Debutante Program, themed Cultivated in Crimson: The Ascendance of a Queen.

Our Debutante participants are exceptional young ladies who embody poise, leadership, academic excellence, and respect within their schools and communities. If selected to participate, you will engage in a series of enriching social, educational, and community service experiences designed to cultivate personal growth and prepare you for future success.

The season will culminate with a grand cotillion ball, where you will be celebrated among family and friends for your accomplishments and transformation throughout the program.

Participation in the Debutante Program requires commitment and dedication, but the journey offers meaningful rewards — including opportunities to earn special program incentives. Before submitting your application, please review the following minimum eligibility requirements.

The competitive categories consist of the following:

1. Miss Jabberwock  (Grades 9-12)

Grade Level:

• Must be a female student currently enrolled in grades 9 through 12 during the 2025–2026 academic year.

Academic Standing:

• Must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) and be in good academic and disciplinary standing at her school.

Character and Conduct:

• Must demonstrate high moral character, respect for others, and leadership potential within her school and community.

Residency:

• Reside in in Southern Prince George’s County, Charles County Maryland, or a surrounding area within reasonable proximity to the Fort Washington Alumnae Chapter’s service area. Residency may also be granted for eligible family members of an FWAC Chapter member

Commitment:

• Must be willing to actively participate in 75% of scheduled Jabberwock activities, including workshops, community service projects, rehearsals, and fundraising events.

Parental/Guardian Support:

• A parent or legal guardian must consent to participation and support the debutante throughout the duration of the program.

Application Requirements:

• Must submit a completed application package, which includes:
  • Application form and signed parental consent
  • Recent school transcript or grade report
  • Recommendation letter from a teacher, counselor, or community leader
  • Recent photo (headshot or school photo)
  • Submit non-refundable $35 application fee

2. Jr. Miss Jabberwock 

Grade Level:

• Must be a female student currently enrolled in grades 6 through 8 during the 2025–2026 academic year.

Academic Standing:

• Must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 (on a 4.0 scale) and demonstrate consistent academic effort and positive behavior in school.

Character and Conduct:

• Must display good moral character, respect for peers and adults, and a willingness to learn and grow throughout the program.

Residency:

• Reside in in Southern Prince George’s County, Charles County Maryland, or a surrounding area within reasonable proximity to the Fort Washington Alumnae Chapter’s service area. Residency may also be granted for eligible family members of an FWAC Chapter member

Commitment:

• Must be willing to participate actively in all scheduled Jr. Miss Jabberwock activities, including educational workshops, rehearsals, community service, and fundraising events..

Parental/Guardian Support:

• A parent or legal guardian must consent to participation and support the Jr. debutante throughout the duration of the program.

Application Requirements:

• Must submit a completed application package, which includes:Application form and signed parental consent
• Recent report card or grade report
• Recommendation letter from a teacher, counselor, or community leader
• Recent photo (headshot or school photo)
• Submit non-refundable $35 application fee

Before You Apply

The Jabberwock Program is a journey of growth, achievement, and celebration — and it requires dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment. Before applying, please take a moment to consider the responsibilities involved.

Each participant will be responsible for a program fee of $750, payable in four manageable installments. A needs-based review for the program fee is available for a maximum of two participants this season to ensure that financial constraints do not prevent qualified young ladies from participating. Please note that eligibility for a needs-based adjustment has no impact on program participation, evaluation, or selection for titles — every participant is judged solely on her accomplishments, poise, fundraising efforts, and leadership.  

In addition, participants will be asked to raise a minimum fundraising goal of $1,500, which can be achieved through donations, souvenir journal advertisements, and other creative individual fundraising efforts.

Participants will play a starring role in the grand finale by selling and personally naming at least one table for the 2026 Jabberwock Debutante Cotillion.

While these commitments require effort, they are designed to empower you, develop your skills, and celebrate your accomplishments. With dedication and a positive spirit, your Jabberwock experience will be unforgettable!

 

What the Program Fee Covers

The $750 registration fee ensures that each debutante enjoys a full and enriching experience throughout the 2026 Jabberwock Program. This includes:

- Mother-Daughter Brunch (2 tickets/meals)
- Father-Daughter Activity
- Workshops

- Dine Like a Diplomat Luncheon
- Gala gift for the debutante
- Headshot/Personality Portrait
- Waltz Instruction
- Necklace & Corsages
- Boutonnieres for Escorts/Fathers
- Participant T-shirt
- FWAC Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. Certificate of Participation 
- 8x10 Family Portrait in Formal Attire

Please complete and submit the electronic 2026 Jabberwock Cotillion Application - including essay, transcripts or report cards, letter of recommendation and $35 application fee - by December 6, 2025. Applications recieved after this date will not be considered. 

Incomplete packets will not be reviewed.

Once application reviews are complete, all applicants will be notified of their acceptance status. December 13, 2025 the first installment of the program fee will be due.  Young ladies who receive an invitation to participate will be required to attend a mandatory welcome meeting in January 2026. . Meeting details will be provided in the program acceptance letter.

For more information or if you have any questions, please contact the Fort Washington Alumnae Chapter Jabberwock Committee via email at FWACJabberwock@gmail.com.  

                                                

Delicia "Lee" Guyton, 2026 Jabberwock Committee Chair                    

Dr. Ganelle Moultry-Leach, 2026 Jabberwock Committee Co-Chair

Brittany Alleyne, 2026 Jabberwock Commitee Co-Chair

 

 

2025-2026 JABBERWOCK DEBUTANTE APPLICATION

Fort Washington Alumnae Chapter

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

 

APPLICATION GUIDELINES

1. Reside in in Southern Prince George’s County, Charles County Maryland, or a surrounding area within reasonable proximity to the Fort Washington Alumnae Chapter’s service area. Residency may also be granted for eligible family members of an FWAC Chapter member

2. All application materials must be typewritten or computer-generated; handwritten submissions will not be accepted.

3. Miss Jabberwock must be a female student currently enrolled in grades 9 through 12 during the 2025–2026 academic year.

4. Jr. Miss Jabberwock must be a female student currently enrolled in grades 6 through 8 dudring the 2025-2026 academinc year. 

4. Submission of school transcript or grade report

5. Letters of Recommendation must be submitted on official letterhead.

6. Signed parental consent

7.Recent photo (headshot or school photo)

8. Submit non-refundable $35 application fee 

9. Essay (minimum 500 words, maximum 3 pages)

SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES

First Saturday and Fourth Sunday, monthly beginning in February 2026. Detailed Schedule will be provided at mandatory welcome meeting in January 2026.

 

USE OF THE SORORITY NAME AND SYMBOLS

Use of the sorority symbols is prohibited. Participants should only use the name "Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated" or "Fort Washington Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated" in the following manner:

"I am participating in the Jabberwock pageant sponsored by the Fort Washington Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc."

.

ONLINE GUIDELINES

1. Debutante applications must be submitted using the fillable application form by midnight (EST) on December 6, 2025. Applications submitted after 11:59 PM (EST) on December 6, 2025 will be considered ineligible.

2. The complete application packet — including the application form, Essay, and recommendation letter — must be uploaded to the application portal.

3. Official transcripts may be emailed directly from the school or school official to FWACJabberwock@gmail.com or uploaded directly to the application portal.

 

2026 JABBERWOCK DEBUTANTE PROGRAM APPLICATION

2026 JABBERWOCK DEBUTANTE PROGRAM 

Essay Scoring Rubric

Response Rating Scale

3 points- Excellent     2 points-  Very Good   1 point- Satisfactory   0 points- Needs Improvement   

 

Criteria	Description	Points
Content/Ideas	Strong/creative introduction that captures readers attention “Paints a picture” for the reader Content clearly and completely addresses topic with use of relevant supporting details and examples Stays on topic and avoids random/unrelated ideas Topic is fully developed in an interesting and/or informative way that maintains readers interest
Organization	Writing is well organized, structured, and easy to follow Ideas presented in a logical order Excellent use of transitions Clear introduction, body, and conclusion Organization of sentences reflects purpose and audience
Word Choice	Precise, vivid, descriptive and/or interesting word choice Avoids overuse of certain words or phrases Use of advanced vocabulary, imagery, and/or sensory words; Incorporates a wide variety of words and phrases  (i.e. similes, metaphors, personification, etc.)
Voice	Developed a unique voice to show individual style of writing Voice reflects personality, feelings and/or knowledge about the topic Skillful and creative use of phrasing/words help develop and enhance writer’s voice Voice is fitting for the topic and engaging
Writing Conventions	Appropriate/correct spelling, grammar usage, punctuation and capitalization throughout the response; Avoids sentence fragement, incomplete sentences, run on sentences.
Total Score

 

2026 JABBERWOCK DEBUTANTE PROGRAM APPLICATION

Fort Washington Alumnae Chapter

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated

 

Debutante Essay Question

(500 Words Minimum; Maximum of 3 typewritten pages, double-spaced, Arial or Times New Roman 12 pt. font)

1. Miss Jabberwock Applicants please respond to the following:

Reflect on a challenge you have faced as a young African American woman. How did this experience influence your perspective and goals?

 

2. Jr. Miss Jabberwock Applicants please respond to the following:

Who inspires you in your life or in African American history? What qualities do you admire, and how do you try to follow their example?

 

Letter must be on official letterhead and must be typewritten/computer generated. Letters of recommendation prepared by teacher, counselor, clergy, coach, mentor community service representative/coordinator MUST have a signature and can be uploaded to this application portal.

Key Elements for a Debutante Recommendation Letter

Introduction of the Recommender

Name, title, and relationship to the applicant
How long and in what capacity the recommender has known the applicant

Character & Personal Qualities

Poise, maturity, and confidence
Respectfulness and integrity
Kindness, empathy, and interpersonal skills

Academic Performance

General academic standing or GPA
Work ethic, discipline, and commitment to learning
Specific examples of dedication or achievement in school

Leadership & Initiative

Roles in school clubs, organizations, sports, or community groups
Examples of leading or organizing projects
Ability to motivate or inspire others

Community Service & Involvement

Participation in volunteer work or community projects
Contribution to the betterment of the community
Demonstrated sense of social responsibility

Talent & Creativity

Artistic, musical, or performance abilities (if applicable)
Public speaking or performance skills
Any other unique talents that showcase the applicant’s individuality

Suitability for the Debutante Program

Why the applicant would be a good fit for the program
How the applicant exemplifies the qualities the program seeks (poise, leadership, academic excellence, community-mindedness)

Closing Statement

Strong endorsement or recommendation
Willingness to provide additional information if needed
Contact information for follow-up

2026 JABBERWOCK PROGRAM PARTICIPATION AGREEMENT 

Please sign, print to pdf, and upload agreement in application portal

 

I, ________________________________, agree to participate in the 2025-2026 Jabberwock program, sponsored by the Fort Washington Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.

I also agree to the following:

• Complete and submit the application and $35 non-refundable application fee by the due date to include an essay (500 word minimum) 
• Sign and submit the Jabberwock Agreement and Risk Management forms (signed by parent or legal guardian)
• Submit letter of recommendation (i.e., teacher, counselor, clergy, coach, mentor)
• Submit recent  headshot photograph
  Pay a non-refundable program fee .The program fee will cover costs for:
      a.  Participant entry requirements

b.  Rehearsals

c.  Workshops

d.  Planned monthly activities

• Attend a minimum of 75% of related functions and activities of the Jabberwock program 
• Attend all required rehearsals 
• Sell a minimum of one table for the Cotillion (10 tickets) 
• Participate in the Jabberwock Cotillion and wear required attire as outlined by the guidelines 
• Will not use the Sorority's symbols in any manner 
• Will only use the name "Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated" or "Fort Washington Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated" in the following manner: "I am participating in the Jabberwock program sponsored by the Fort Washington Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated."

Statement of Conduct: The Fort Washington Alumnae Chapter has the right to disqualify any participant if the above criteria are not met and/or for inappropriate actions as determined by the Fort Washington Alumnae Chapter.

SIGNATURES

____________________Date_________  ________________________Date___

Jabberwock Participant                                  Parent/Legal Guardian 

 2026 JABBERWOCK PROGRAM PARENTAL AGREEMENT

Please sign, print to pdf, and upload agreement in application portal

I give permission for ______________ to participate in the 2026 Jabberwock Debutante Program. 

Parent’s/Guardian’s Signature _________________________________Date ______________________ 

This checklist is intended to be a friendly reminder. It does not override any instructions listed within the application. Please adhere to all detailed instructions contained within the application packet.

Take a few minutes to look over your application packet to ensure that you have included the following:

 

(Sent electronically no later than 11:59 p.m. December 6, 2025)

Be advised that your application packet will become the property of the selection committee and will not be returned.