The Next Step

Today, a young adult's success can be measured by their character, discrimination, intelligence and actions. As these young women and men enter into adulthood, it is our desire to mold them with an astute awareness of self-worth and community involvement. 

The Senior Debutante/Beau Program

The participation in the Senior Program aids in broadening their contacts with other young people of similar backgrounds, cultural appreciation and aspirations. Preparation and training that will assist senior age young adults in making the transition from one developmental stage of life to the next.

Each Debutante/Beau chosen by a SSCEO member is afforded the honor because she/he is demonstrating attributes described above. With this program, our participants can learn life skills and confidence that they can carry with them for a lifetime. 

In order to be presented into society during the senior year of high school, all Debutante/Beau participants must meet minimum requirements for senior level participation.

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What is a Debutante?

The origin of the words “debut” and “debutante” lie in French History. It was in Paris that “Le bal Grande” was first held. In other countries, young women are presented to their elders and are formally transitioned from adolescence to young adulthood through various rites of passage. In the United States, debutantes are young ladies who are presented to society by local organizations or service groups. As in France, the term “debutante” is used in the United States, to characterize a young lady who has certain attributes. A Debutante is in the final processes of learning to be courteous, tactful, punctual and respectful. She is becoming more active in community affairs and is learning to respect the ideas and opinions of others.

What is a Beau?

A Beau is a young man who moves from one stage of life to another. These young men participate in a rite of passage where they come together and share ideas and learn about life. It all comes together when they are presented to the public and acknowledge their accomplishments. Young women have traditionally had Debutante Balls and young men have had Rites of Passage Ceremonies. In the Jewish religion, young men have a Bar Mitzvah. The Beautillion celebrates a young African American male’s coming of age.