CONTRIBUTED BY DYWLC
LEE COUNTY —
On Saturday, Jan. 21, Keely Rider, Lee County’s Distinguished Young Woman, was selected as a top eight finalist in Alabama’s Distinguished Young Women. Rider competed with other high school senior girls from across the state for the title of Alabama’s Distinguished Young Woman. This program joined together participants to compete for college scholarships, as well as the opportunity to represent America’s Distinguished Young Woman Program of 2023. Rider was awarded a preliminary award in scholarship.
The young women competing were evaluated by a panel of five judges in the following categories: Scholastics (25%), Interview (25%), Talent (20%), Fitness (15%) and Self-Expression (15%). Participants have been practicing and preparing all week in Montgomery for this event. The young women were included in the Governor’s Parade along with a dinner at the governor’s mansion on Wednesday. They attended community civic events and luncheons in the capital city.
All workshops and events focus on the “Be Your Best Self” program, which includes: Be Healthy, Be Ambitious, Be Involved, Be Responsible and Be Studious.
The Distinguished Young Women is a national scholarship program that inspires high school girls to develop their full, individual potential through a fun, transformative experience that culminates in a celebratory showcase of their accomplishments. Rider won and will receive $1,500 in scholarships from the state level.
Lee County will host the 2024 program on June 24, 2023. Participant registration is now available on the website.