In 1979, “The Plainsman,” Auburn University’s student newspaper launched a protest of the Miss Auburn pageant. University of Alabama head coach Paul “Bear” Bryant had dubbed Auburn “the cow college” because of the agriculture and veterinary programs. Using that as their launching pad, “The Plainsman” staff took a photo of a cow at the vet school and circulated flyers entitled “Vote Bessie for Miss Auburn.”

Bessie the Cow won in a landslide write-in candidacy. A news release congratulating Bessie on her win was accompanied by a statement from Bessie that she regretted that she would be unable to fulfill her duties.

In lieu of a crown, Bessie was awarded a chrome-plated cowbell bearing the inscription: Bessie – Miss Auburn 1979-80. A Moo Beginning."