Dr. Marchette Lockette-Smith
~ Model/Pageant Queen ~
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Copa: Where are you from?
Dr. Marchette: I am from Detroit, Michigan. Copa: Which schools did you attend and degrees you've earned?
Dr. Marchette: I earned my Bachelor’s Degree (in Psychology) from the University of Detroit; I earned my Master’s Degree (in Child and Family Studies) from California State University – Los Angeles; I earned my Ph.D. (in Social Welfare) at Yeshiva University; I earned my post-doctoral Master of Business Administration from Pace University. Copa: At what time did you get involved with fashion modeling and pageantry competition?
Dr. Marchette: In the late eighties I was scouted by agents from John Casablanca's Model Management and from the Marci Haney Talent Agency, while competing in the Ms. Black Michigan pageant. Soon after being scouted, I began working the auto show, the boat show, and the home builder's exhibition. I also worked numerous promotions, walked the runway for Essence magazine, and was hired for print jobs. Copa: How many pageants did you compete in and what was the experience like?
Dr. Marchette: I have competed in three pageants: Ms. Black Michigan (second runner-up), Mrs. Maryland International, and Mrs. District of Columbia America (second runner-up). As the second runner-up, I am currently the Mrs. District of Columbia America Ambassador. Competing in pageants is exhilarating, reinforcing the need for demonstrating grace under extreme pressure, and the ability to multitask. Pageants build confidence and require disciple (eating healthy, working out, and developing a platform). It is a great deal of work, but you are rewarded with pageant sister who become lifelong friends. 
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City of Detroit, Michigan
Map of Detroit, Michigan
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Copa: Who are your 3 favorite models of all time?
Dr. Marchette: Iman Abdulmajid, Naomi Campbell, and Adriana Lima.
Dr. Marchette: Iman Abdulmajid, Naomi Campbell, and Adriana Lima.
Iman Abdulmajid
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Naomi Campbell
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Adriana Lima
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Copa: What was the biggest experience you've learned during pageant competition and what advice would you give to other competitors?
Dr. Marchette: My beauty pageant experiences taught me to focus on myself, while staying open minded to embracing new concepts. If you have been to a horse race, you noticed that the horses run wearing blinders. The blinders are to ensure that each horse stays focused on the goal of winning, not comparing themselves to their competition. I would advise other competitors to compete in pageants that most align with their morals, ethics, and life goals. Round pegs do not fit in square holes. It is never good to go against the grain. In the world of pageantry, there is something for everyone. Just understand, “A lot of hard work goes with the crown and the flowers.”
Dr. Marchette: My beauty pageant experiences taught me to focus on myself, while staying open minded to embracing new concepts. If you have been to a horse race, you noticed that the horses run wearing blinders. The blinders are to ensure that each horse stays focused on the goal of winning, not comparing themselves to their competition. I would advise other competitors to compete in pageants that most align with their morals, ethics, and life goals. Round pegs do not fit in square holes. It is never good to go against the grain. In the world of pageantry, there is something for everyone. Just understand, “A lot of hard work goes with the crown and the flowers.”
Copa: How would you describe your personal style?
Dr. Marchette: My personal style is eclectic. I am conservative some days. I enjoy grunge, like trendy, and sometimes rock chic. I am not the girl who wakes up in make-up. I rarely wear it.
Dr. Marchette: My personal style is eclectic. I am conservative some days. I enjoy grunge, like trendy, and sometimes rock chic. I am not the girl who wakes up in make-up. I rarely wear it.
Copa: Do you believe the area of the DMV will ever become a fashion center of the east coast? If not, why?
Dr. Marchette: I think that with the proper fashion designers, a diverse group of models, some creativity, and on spot price points, the DMV could increase its competitive edge. Often people embrace Washington for the power on the hill, but they think New York when it comes to fashion.
Dr. Marchette: I think that with the proper fashion designers, a diverse group of models, some creativity, and on spot price points, the DMV could increase its competitive edge. Often people embrace Washington for the power on the hill, but they think New York when it comes to fashion.
Copa: What does the future hold for Dr. Marchette and her fabulous world of pageantry and fashion?
Dr. Marchette: My family and I have been in the DMV for one year, two pageants down. I am in the process of completing 501c3 paperwork. I want to open a clinic, which will provide treatment to individuals suffering from Substance Abuse Disorder (SAD). My post-doctoral research has centered on SUD. I have numerous years of non-profit program management experience, combined with my MBA, anything is possible. I will continue building my Life Coaching client list. I have spoken with several pageant directors in relation to competing in 2023, possibilities. I definitely see an overseas vacation in my future, building a hone gym, fun times with my wonderful husband Michael, and our six-year-old daughter.
Dr. Marchette: My family and I have been in the DMV for one year, two pageants down. I am in the process of completing 501c3 paperwork. I want to open a clinic, which will provide treatment to individuals suffering from Substance Abuse Disorder (SAD). My post-doctoral research has centered on SUD. I have numerous years of non-profit program management experience, combined with my MBA, anything is possible. I will continue building my Life Coaching client list. I have spoken with several pageant directors in relation to competing in 2023, possibilities. I definitely see an overseas vacation in my future, building a hone gym, fun times with my wonderful husband Michael, and our six-year-old daughter.
