University of Wisconsin Oshkosh radio/TV/film major Tosha Herrman will present awards and judge the Winnebago County Literacy Council’s spelling bee Feb. 21 at the Oshkosh Public Library, 106 Washington Ave.

Her appearance at “How Do You Spell Chocolate?” — the eighth-annual Corporate and Middle School Spelling Bee — is one of nearly 70 engagements in the city during the past year, and it comes at the end of her reign as Miss Oshkosh. She will pass her crown to the 2009 pageant winner March 7.

“During my appearances, I promote my platform, which is A-T (Ataxia-Telangiectasia) awareness and research,” Herrman said.

Throughout her reign, Herrman has appeared at charity golf tournaments, the Mayor’s Breakfast during EAA and the Women’s Division of Oshkosh Style Show, among other events.

The middle school spelling bee begins at 10:30 a.m., followed by the corporate bee at 1 p.m. Free chocolate and a silent auction will be available throughout the day.

“Many people ask me how I can manage doing everything I do. I have to work, go to school, make rehearsals and meetings for different activities, and juggle the responsibilities of Miss Oshkosh,” Herrman said.

“My only answer is that it is by no means easy, but I only have one year to serve this community and promote something I care deeply about. The gratification from helping others overshadows the obstacles,” she said.

Herrman has mixed emotions as the 2009 pageant nears. “I am sad to let go of something that means so much to me, but I am excited for the one who is chosen to continue to serve the city of Oshkosh.”