NEW BEDFORD — When Ian Dumas heads off to college this fall, he'll have more to take with him than the diploma he'll collect at New Bedford High School's June 9 graduation.

He'll also have a crown.

Earlier this year, Dumas beat out 15 other young men of NBHS for the coveted title of Mr. Whaler that stands as testimony to a nearly quarter-century old school tradition. The Mr. Whaler competition began 24 years ago as a spoof on male beauty pageants and has become an important part of NBHS life for students and families alike.

Dumas said he was honored to win the title of Mr. Whaler.

“When I was little, my cousin won and I used to always see the newspaper cutout from The Standard-Times of him on my aunt’s refrigerator, so that was my inspiration,” said Dumas.

Dean of Students Carrie Cetenich said Mr. Whaler is held to raise money for senior class activities such as graduation activities, caps and gowns and prom. Much like typical pageants, the show features four different categories of competition: casual wear, bathing suits, formal wear and talent.

The talent section showcased the many different skills of the 16 contestants. Some did stand up comedy routines while others played instruments such as piano and saxophone. One contestant, Andrew Rapoza, acted as a doll coming alive.

Ian Dumas’ talent presentation was another eye-catcher for the packed house that turned out for Mr. Whaler.

“I did bullwhip tricks, like Indiana Jones. I hit linguini out of my mouth and off of my head,” Dumas recalled.

"You can't spell ‘Indiana Jones’ without ‘Ian,’” he joked.

The 2016 Mr. Whaler court included first runner-up Trevor Green, second runner-up Miguel Nunes, third runner-up Andrew Rapoza, and fourth runner-up Tiago Mimosa. Slade Formal Wear Inc. provided the seniors tuxedos to wear for the formal wear segment.

“We try to incorporate the girls, too, by having them escort the guys during the formal wear and they get to wear their long gowns,” said Cetenich.

Other students and faculty assisted in the production of the beauty pageant spoof. Senior Katherine Gomes acted as one of three hosts who were responsible for adding in fun-filled side commentary about the contestants.

“It’s a great family show that anyone can watch and have a good time. And it was just such a blast to be a part of,” said Gomes.

“Mr. Whaler is a unique New Bedford High School tradition that has become part of the fabric of our school,” said Headmaster Bernadette Coelho. “It is an event that brings our school and community together and that students look forward to every year.”

Dumas said the people who helped with the show were integral to its success.

“I don’t think that the people that put it on get enough credit ... They made is a great night and such a fun show,” he said.

While the end of his high school career is fast approaching, Mr. Whaler isn't resting on his laurels. He plans to attend Salem State University as an English and education major in the fall with an eye toward becoming a teacher.