Kazmierczak, from Salcha, near Fairbanks, is a sophomore at the University of Alaska Anchorage majoring in psychology with a minor in communication. She was selected from an initial field of 12 contestants. The queen and two runners-up each receive prizes, including a $1,000 cash award.
The announcement was made at the mayor's weekly press briefing at City Hall.
"This is the biggest crowd we've ever had for a press briefing," Sullivan quipped.
In remarks after receiving the crown, Kazmierczak said, "I'd like to see more youth participating in Fur Rondy this year."
It was the first time that the municipality's chief executive has announced the winner. Anchorage Fur Rendezvous board president Ernie Hall said he hopes the ceremony becomes an annual event.
The 2010 Rendezvous starts today and runs through March 7.
Find Mike Dunham online at adn.com/contact/mdunham or call 257-4332.
Important warning about e-mails purporting to be from the adn.com staff.