Distinguished Young Women program returns to Wallace State Saturday

The 2018 Distinguished Young Women program will be held at Wallace State Community College (Betty Leeth Haynes Theater) Saturday, June 17 at 4 p.m.

Ticket are $12 at the door or can be purchased for $10 in advance from participants or at the Cullman County Museum.

Judging is based on these categories: All 5 program judges are out of the county, as well as the 3 academic judges.

25 percent Scholarship

25 percent Interview

20 percent Talent

15 percent Self-expression

15 percent Fitness

Scholarships are awarded in each categories as well as the overall winner. Scholarships are also awarded to the “Be Your Best Essay” winner and for the Spirit award. These scholarships will be used for tuition or books at the college of the recipient’s choice.

The 2018 Distinguished Young Woman of Cullman County will go on to compete for the state title in January 2018, in Montgomery.

The Program was formerly called Junior Miss, dating back to 1958.

Former participants, who have not been receiving information, are encouraged to contact Chairman Patty Grier at grierpatty@gmail.com so she can get a current address.

Anyone interested in helping with the program can contact Patty Grier at grierpatty@gmail.com.

Carrie Baker

Parents’ names: Angela Williams and Greg Baker

Attended Good Hope High School

Most important honors/activities: Dancelike (co-captain); National Junior Honor Society member induction; 3-year homecoming representative

College choice: University of North Alabama

Career choice: Psychologist

Talent: Lyrical dance, “Happier” by Ed Sheeran

Why did you choose to participate in Distinguished Young Women Scholarship Program?

DYW is a great opportunity to not only win scholarships, but build new friendships and self confidence.

Hope Bowen

Parents’ names: Billy and Darla Bowen

Attended Fairview High School

Most important honors/activities: Math team (9-11), Key Club (9-11; president in 12th grade), Robotics (9-11), National Honor Society (10-11; president in 12th grade), golf (10-11), Girls State delegate

College choice: University of Alabama at Birmingham

Career choice: Medicine

Talent: Playing “Amazing Grace” by Virginia Harmony on the guitar

Why did you choose to participate in Distinguished Young Women Scholarship Program?

Such a great way to get a scholarship.

Anna Faulk

Parents’ names: William and Paige Faulk

Attended St. Bernard Preparatory School

Most important honors/activities: National Honor Society, Student Ambassador, chamber choir member, varsity track, varsity soccer, 1A-2A State Champion Cross Country 2014-15

College choice: Undecided

Career choice: Neonatologist

Talent: Vocal solo, “Can’t Help Falling In Love” by Elvis Presley

Why did you choose to participate in Distinguished Young Women Scholarship Program?

There are three reasons why I am participating in the DYW Scholarship Program: I was inspired in 2013 when Caitlin Varquez represented Cullman County; I would like to earn scholarship funds for my college education; I want to push myself outside my comfort zone.

Alexandra McDonald

Parents’ names: Rick and Paige McDonald

Attended Fairview High School

Most important honors/activities: Honor Society, Key Club treasurer, Cullman County Girls Cross Country champion, Cullman Cooperative Youth Leadership delegate, Overcomer Athlete of the Year award, Champion of Character award recipient

College choice: University of North Alabama

Career choice: Physical therapist

Talent: Song and dance routine to “Rockin’ Robin” by Bobby Day

Why did you choose to participate in Distinguished Young Women Scholarship Program?

I chose to participate in DYW for the opportunity to compete for scholarships, build new relationships, and help develop skills that will help me in my college endeavors.

Lauren Brooke Tankersley

Parents’ names: Jason and Sherri Tankersley

Attended Fairview High School

Most important honors/activities: Head majorette, Cullman Ballet Company member, Birmingham Fashion Week 2015 Rising Design Star Challenge winner, Cullman County Chamber of Commerce Youth Leadership delegate, National Honor Society secretary, student council secretary

College choice: Auburn University

Career choice: Interior design

Talent: Ballet en Pointe

Why did you choose to participate in Distinguished Young Women Scholarship Program?

I believe this program will give me the chance to develop lifelong skills and help fund further my educational opportunities to help me become the best I can be.