Brandywine High School senior Samantha Low was crowned the 2011 Miss Niles Sunday night at Niles High School Auditorium.

The 17-year-old is the daughter of Shawn and Jessica Low. She was selected of 13 candidates.

Low plans to attend Michigan State University after high school to study to become a medical technician or a career in business marketing. She is active in soccer, volleyball, choir, National Honor Society and History Club.

First runner up was BHS senior Kelsey Prestly, 17, daughter of Ray and Kelly Prestly. Second runner up was Brittanie Ritchey, 18, daughter of Gail Tibbs and Randy Ritchey; she is also a BHS senior. Crowned Miss Congeniality was Berrien Springs High School senior Dominique Morris, 17, daughter of Yvonne and David McClean.

Also rounding out the top 5 were Rachel Zeider, 17, an NHS senior, and Alexis Franciscotty, 17, also a NHS senior.

Low was also chosen as the people’s choice winner.

All candidates were asked during the “Communication Spotlight” who they would donate their money if they won $1 million on “Wheel of Fortune.” The top five candidates were asked what they would do for themselves if they won $1 million.

Low was crowned by 2010 Miss Niles, Lauren Kachur. The 2010 first runner up and Miss Congeniality was Chelsea Powers.

The theme of the pageant was “Wheel of Fortune,” which follows the Blossomtime Festival’s theme, “TV Land.”

All 13 candidates danced in an opening number, “Just Got Paid.” Kachur and Hannah Montgomery, Miss Cass/St. Joseph County Outstanding Teen, also performed vocal solos.

The emcee for the pageant was “Wild” Bill Lewis of 97.5 Y Country Radio. Judges were Anita Harner, Larry Nielson and Lindsey Mitchell. Pages were Ashley Lowe, Katie Bruckner and Chloe Hargraves.

Low and Prestly will represent the Niles community in 2011 by attending area parades and visiting schools, nursing homes and various fundraisers and other events.

Miss Niles is awarded a $700 scholarship, among other prizes. The other members of her court also receive prizes and scholarships.