Michaela Sanderson, a senior at Gardendale High School, was recently awarded the esteemed Jordan Harrison, Cullman County Distinguished Young Woman, received a $1,000 scholarship at the Alabama DYW Program in Montgomery.

The finals were held on Jan. 21. This brings her total cash scholarships received from the program to $4,600. Jordan truly enjoyed her nine days in Montgomery with her host family, Mike and Alison Bird.

“It was very exciting to spend nine days in Montgomery. My host family, Mike and Alison Bird, was absolutely amazing!” said Harrison. “My housemate, Lauren Brooke Killough (Autauga County DYW) and I was treated to GiGi’s Cupcakes and Starbucks often.

“Of course, the days were long with lots of rehearsals for the productions on Friday and Saturday. All that practice paid off though, as the programs were seemingly flawless. I was blessed to have met lots of girls from all over the state who are not only beautiful and talented but smart as well. With the academic credentials that this group possessed, I was humbled to have received an Scholastic Award and a $1000 cash scholarship.

“I would like to encourage all girls who are upcoming seniors to participate in this year’s 2013 Distinguished Young Woman of Cullman County. Information can be found at ajm.org.” said Harrison of her accomplishments.

• Amberly Gospodareck, a student at Gardendale High School, will receive the Troy University Chancellor’s Award, a full-tuition scholarship, worth approximately $24,000 over four years.

• Morgan Ramsey of Gardendale High School is a recipient of the Troy University Chancellor’s Award, a full-tuition scholarship, worth approximately $24,000 over four years.

• Ruth Batemon of Fultondale has received a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Western Governors University. The online, nonprofit university recently held its semi-annual commencement ceremony in Atlanta and celebrated the graduation of more than 2,600 graduates.