Crystal Nemecio beamed with joy as she was crowned the 2025 Oroville May Festival queen.
“May Day has always been a special time of year for me,” she shared. “Whether it’s watching the beautiful queen floats, enjoying the delicious food, or simply seeing our wonderful community come together, it holds a special place in my heart.”
A part-time Running Start student at Eastern Washington University and a junior at Oroville High School, Nemecio has deep roots in the festival. She recalled her early days as a Maypole dancer in third, fourth and fifth grade and her role as sophomore class princess last year.
“To represent this community would be a tremendous privilege,” she said.
As a lifelong Oroville resident, Nemecio values the strong support of her family—parents Florencio Nemecio and Cristina Alejandro, and siblings Yessica, Melissa and Jose.
Outside of her studies, Nemecio is a dedicated athlete, participating in soccer, basketball, track and cross country. She also holds leadership positions as the FBLA president, executive ASB vice president and is a member of Upward Bound.
Nemecio faced off against Ariona Nelson, Anna Quezada and Gwyndolyn Thompson in the competition for the crown. The four candidates each delivered prepared speeches and answered impromptu questions, with a panel of judges accounting for 65 percent of the vote and audience votes contributing 35 percent.
Nelson, 16, is also a part-time Running Start student at Eastern Washington University. A lifelong Oroville resident, she is the daughter of Alan and Marcie Nelson. Ariona is involved in cheer, cross country, softball and has previously played basketball. She is also a part of the Upward Bound Math and Science program and FBLA.
Quezada expressed gratitude for her family’s unwavering support—Jose, Junior and Miguel Quezada. In addition to cheerleading, dance, and FFA, Quezada serves as an FBLA officer and enjoys hands-on work with animals.
Thompson, another part-time Eastern Washington University Running Start student, is an active member of her school and community. She holds leadership roles as the executive ASB treasurer, class of 2026 treasurer, FBLA treasurer and is a contributor to the Oroville school newspaper. She also competes in varsity volleyball and track.
This year’s May Festival theme is “Garden of Dreams.” ♦
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