Arcadia's Own Serena Hui Guo Crowned 2026 Rose Queen

 

The San Gabriel Valley has a new reason to beam with pride. Arcadia High School senior Serena Hui Guo has been crowned the 2026 Rose Queen, becoming the 107th young woman to wear the iconic crown and represent the Tournament of Roses.

 

The announcement came Tuesday, Oct. 28, on the front steps of the Tournament House in Pasadena. As Tournament of Roses President Mark Leavens called her name, Serena’s hands flew to her mouth in pure disbelief before stepping forward into a chorus of cheers, applause, and the triumphant notes of the Pasadena City College Herald Trumpets.

 

“It was just shock, and then remembering I had to actually walk forward,” Serena laughed afterward.

 

Guo, who earlier this month was named to the 2026 Rose Court, said she felt less nervous this time because she was surrounded by her six fellow court members:

 

• Riya Gupta (Caltech)

• Livia Amy de Paula (Temple City High)

• Sophia Bai Ren (Arcadia High)

• Keiko Rakin (Alhambra High)

• Naira Elaine Wadley (John Muir High)

• Olivia Hargrove (Pasadena City College)

 

Together, the court will serve as ambassadors for the Tournament of Roses, each receiving a $7,500 educational scholarship. The Rose Court float will make its grand appearance down Colorado Boulevard on January 1, with this year’s theme, “The Magic in Teamwork,” led by Grand Marshal Earvin “Magic” Johnson.

 

As Serena posed for portraits and media interviews, her parents, Wei Guo and Hui Zhou, stood nearby, beaming with quiet pride. “It’s like a dream,” said her mother. “We’ve watched the Rose Parade since Serena was little. Never did I imagine she’d go from the sidelines to the center of it all.”

 

President Leavens praised Serena and the court for their enthusiasm and commitment. “They’re ready to share their stories and spread the magic of the Tournament of Roses,” he said.

 

Outside of her royal duties, Serena is a powerhouse student. She’s captain of the Congressional Debate Team, a member of Arcadia’s Speech and Debate and Varsity Volleyball teams, a student leader, tutor, and a community volunteer at both the Arcadia Public Library and Foothill Unity Center. She’s also advocated directly with state representatives through legislative conferences and hopes to one day become an attorney.

 

Her selection caps a months-long process that began in August, with dozens of applicants from across the Pasadena area vying for a spot. This year, eligibility expanded to include students impacted by the Eaton Fire, ensuring everyone within the Pasadena City College District and neighboring zip codes could apply.

 

From the classroom to community service to the Rose Court stage, Serena embodies what the San Gabriel Valley does best, leading with heart, humility, and hard work.

 

So when the Rose Parade rolls through Pasadena this New Year’s Day, keep an eye out for that bright smile under the crown, it’s one of our own.

 

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