More than the Crown: A Q&A with Prom Queen and King
By SAMANTHA LEWIS
The Tower
The doors swung open, and the first few couples stepped into the room. But the buzz wasn’t just about the stunning dresses or sharp suits; it was about who would be crowned Prom King and Queen.
Tatum Kusy and Owen Gully, already standing out in their elegant outfits, were the faces everyone watched, knowing the night would soon be theirs to lead.
Manteca High seniors Tatum Kusy and Owen Gully dancing their first dance as prom queen and king on the class of 2026 (Photo Contributed by Kal Ochoa)
For months, anticipation had been built. Students had debated over outfits and counted down the days until the big event. As Kusy and Gully made their way across the room, eyes followed them as they danced through the crowd, anticipating the crowing ceremony that was just moments away.
Kusy and Gully stood gleaming as they waited for the announcement that would make them Prom Royalty.
The DJ’s voice echoes through the room, and the crowd grew hushed in anticipation. When Tatum’s name rang through the speakers, a cheer erupted from the crowd. Moments later, Owen was called up to receive his crown. With a final flourish, they stood together at the center of the room, the crows shining in the spotlight.
Now, prom night is history. But for Kusy and Gully they will forever remain the 2026 Manteca High prom King and Queen. Here are a few words from Tatum Kusy herself:
The Tower: What was your first reaction when your name was announced prom queen?
Tatum Kusy: I wasn’t too surprised because my boyfriend was before me, so once his name got called, I was surprised, but I didn't think we were going to win at all. So we were actually really surprised.
TT: What does it mean being crowned prom queen personally?
TK: To me, I think it was just fun to get it with my boyfriend, but i don’t think it means anything. Like, I don’t think it means anything, I don’t think anybody should strive to be in that.
TT: What do you think helped you earn the title prom queen?
TK: My boyfriend, I think me and him being together since, like basically freshman year has really like, built our image and, like, how strong our relationship is.
TT: Who was the first person you texted after you won?
TK: My Mom, we sent her all the videos and everything.
TT: What was her reaction?
TK: She knew I was going to get it, but we were all so surprised.
TT: What song would you use to describe your prom night?
TK: I would have to say anything Justin Bieber because of Bieberchella.
TT: What’s something people didn’t see behind the scenes that night?
TK: Honestly, like getting ready, and, like, taking pictures the last time with like, all my friends and my boyfriend was, like, it genuinely was sad.
With crows placed on their heads and the crowd cheering around them, Kusy and Gully shared a moment they and the rest of Manteca High would remember long after prom night ended. Surrounded by friends, flashing cameras, and nonstop applause, the two stood together at the center of the dance floor, taking in the excitement of the night. It was more than just a title; it reflected the memories they had made throughout high school and the support they had built from the people around them.
“I admire how genuine Tatum is, she’s always true to herself, and she’s the kindest person I have ever met.” Gully says.