Students demand that 'Miss FSU' get her title back

Perkins was stripped of her title on Friday, although the school has not released specifics of the decision. The school said privacy law prevents them from doing so.

In a statement, Fayetteville State officials said they believe the decision is "in the best interest of the university and its students."

We appreciate her service as Miss Fayetteville State University and wish her the best in her future endeavors," the statement said.

Officials told WRAL News that Perkins is still a student at the university and that the decision is not related to any criminal activity.

Delonte Ward, one of the protest organizers, said he has spoken with Perkins and read the letter given to her by the university that outlines why the crown was taken away.

"They were perturbed at the fact that she wouldn't just let them boss her around, that she spoke up. That she spoke up on issues and they never addressed her concerns and issues when she was running as Miss FSU," Ward said.

Shortly after Ward and another student addressed the crowd of protesters, they marched to che chancellor's office chanting "bring Bria back."

More than 350 students have signed a petition demanding that Perkins' title be reinstates.

The students say Perkins also deserves a public apology from FSU.

Student Marilyn Carman says Perkins represented the university well.

"She's been wonderful. She's smart, she's poised, she always has a smile on her face. She always is the one who stops and talks with students," Carman said. "It's like losing a family member. They've taken her crown. They don't tell the students why. All we get is an email."