Bert’s Back--and Illinoisan Wins Miss America Title

Miss Illinois Marjorie Judith Vincent, a pianist of Haitian descent who wants to practice international law, was crowned Miss America 1991 early today.

Vincent broke into tears and then smiled as she was given a surprise serenade of “There She Is” by Bert Parks, who returned to the pageant 10 years after he was fired as emcee.

First runner-up in the contest was Miss South Carolina Mary Waddell Gainey, 24, of Hartsville. Following her as second runner-up was Miss Tennessee Dana Brown, 25, of Memphis. Miss Texas Suzanne Lawrence, 21, of Humble was third runner-up, and Miss Louisiana Linnea Marie Fayard, 22, of Shreveport took fifth place.

Vincent, 25, of Oak Park, is a third-year law student at Duke University who graduated from DePaul University in 1988 with a degree in music.

She played Chopin’s “Fantasy Impromptu--Opus 66” with dramatic flourishes and a light touch during the talent portion of the competition.

Vincent, who came to the United States from Haiti when she was 3 years old, has said she wants to study international law and help in the economic development of the impoverished Caribbean nation. She speaks French and Creole.

She said in a pre-pageant interview that she wants to speak out on the plight of battered women.

Vincent was the only black contestant among the 50 this year. Last year’s Miss America, Debbye Turner, also is black.