By Haley Mitchell Godwin

Young women from Crenshaw County are gearing up for the Distinguished Young Women (DYW) Program, a scholarship initiative for rising senior girls which culminates in an event taking place Saturday, June 22 at 2 p.m. at the Dei Center in Luverne. 

Contestants this year are Jessica Bodiford of Highland Home, MaKaylah Green of Luverne and Mary Miles of Highland Home. Each one is completing a week of rehearsals leading up to Saturday’s showcase.

The program aims to empower young women to “be their best selves” and attain their educational goals. Crenshaw County DYW awards nearly $5,000 in scholarships annually. 

The young lady named the Distinguished Young Woman of Crenshaw County will receive a $1,500 cash scholarship and a full-tuition scholarship to Lurleen B. Wallace (LBW) Community College valued at $3,000. She will also represent Crenshaw County at the state level for additional scholarship opportunities.

Cash scholarships will be awarded to the first and second alternate candidates, winners of the fitness, self-expression, talent, scholastic and interview categories, the “Be Your Best Self” essay winner and the Spirit of DYW winner.

Several rising seventh through 11th graders will also participate via the DYW’s Energizers and Little Sisters programs, which help to inspire and encourage younger ladies to strive for excellence. 

The younger participants learn about the scholarship opportunities available through DYW while spending time with the 2024 Distinguished Young Woman Ella-Kate Tomlin. Each girl participates in the program’s community service project, and will perform at Saturday’s event.

Little Sisters are Lauren White, Lucy McKenzie and Natalie Scroggins, with Energizers Harper Burgans, MyLee Williams and MalLee Williams participating.

Tickets will be $10 at the door. For more information follow Distinguished Young Women of Crenshaw County on social media or visit www.distinguisheddyw.org/alabama/crenshaw-county.