By: Denise Foley

How DID the judges choose? That's Colleen Tully, their choice, at the far right. Colleen Gallagher, the 2007 Rose, is in the center.

A 25-year-old Loyola University business grad and commodities trader is the 2008 Philadelphia Rose of Tralee. Colleen Frances Tully of Downingtown was crowned on Friday, June 20, at the event, sponsored by the Philadelphia Immigration and Pastoral Center, held at the Hyatt Regency on Columbus Boulevard in the city. This year there were six contestants, ranging in age from 18 to 25.

Tully has studied ballet since the age of four and is an accomplished ballerina who is also a student of Irish dance. She will go to Ireland in August to compete in the international Rose of Tralee Festival in Tralee, County Kerry. The 2007 International Rose is Lisa Murtagh of New York. Typically, there are more than 30 Rose contestants from around the world—even from as far away as Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The Rose selection—in its 49th year—is televised in Ireland.

• View our photo essay of the Philadelphia event.
• See the slideshow.