FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the Distinctively Debutantes Program Cost?
Registration fee per classification:
Core Deb: $250.00
Junior Miss Deb: $175.00
Junior Deb: $175.00
Returning Debutante: $125.00
What all does the registration fee cover?
Our registration fee covers our e-learning platform, and all program materials (binders, printed materials, custom water bottles, face masks, pens, and etc.). For our Core debutantes, the additional amount goes towards covering Cotillion costs (ball gowns, headshots, engraved bibles, and accessories).
What are the requirements for new debutantes?
Standard Application: Registration link will update when registration is open for our 2024-2025 Fall Sessions
Two letters of recommendation
Most Recent Report Card/Transcript
Interview with Program Director
How often does the Distinctively Debutantes Program meet?
Debutantes complete seven Saturday sessions starting in October and ending in March (with November and December off for the holiday season)! All program dates are released when registration opens.
What are the requirements for new mentors?
Completion of Standard Application: Please contact tphdebs@tdjakes.org to receive our official form!
Must be a member (e-member) of The Potter’s House
Pass Background Check
Complete an interview with Program Coordinator
What is a cotillion and do all debutantes get to participate?
“History: The cotillion is a formal social dance that began in the early 18th century Europe by French royalty. Later it became popular in England among families of nobility and white families in the United States of great wealth, especially in the South. In the early 20th century, some affluent black families adapted the tradition.
At the dance girls were introduced to society, primarily the family’s social and business network. The goal was to prepare the girls to find husbands. During a training period they practiced good behavior, learned dining etiquette, basic dance steps, and how to dress. The training, dance, and presentation transformed the girls into debutantes.
By the 1940s national black fraternities, sororities, civic and social organizations formed the black social structure in African American communities. Through local chapters the cotillion gained popularity, included girls from varied socioeconomic backgrounds, and featured self-confidence and leadership skills, and offered scholarships and other incentives. African American Cotillion and Beautillion (for young men) programs offer exposure to area such as etiquette, appropriate dress, and civic involvement. They also sometimes feature a competitive element in essay writing or talent.”
First Lady Serita Jakes found that it was necessary to add the spiritual component to the debutante program. By aiding the young ladies in developing their relationship with God, she believed that she was creating a foundation that could not be easily broken even when these young ladies were faced with the trials and tribulations of our society.
Our Core Debutantes (age 16+ or graduating senior) are officially crowned at the end of the program at our Grand Cotillion. Although our Junior and Junior Miss Debutantes do not graduate until they become Core Debutantes, they still participate in the cotillion and receive awards for their participation in the program.
What topics will be covered during the sessions?
A few of the topics we cover include (but not limited to):
Formal/In-Formal Dinning
Etiquette
Business Professionalism
Financial Literacy
College Readiness
Mental and Spiritual Health
Physical Health and Nutrition
Are there sponsorships available for potential debutantes?
Sponsorships are available for potential debutantes but are limited! If you are interested in your debutante being sponsored please contact tphdebs@tdjakes.org
Requirements:
Completion of Sponsorship Application
Two letters of recommendation
Most Recent Report Card/Transcript
Completion of Writing Prompt
Interview with Program Director