Six high school senior girls will compete for the title of Dallas County Distinguished Young Woman (DYW) in an event on Saturday at Selma High School at 2 p.m.

The girls will compete for $11,000 in scholarships through the Dallas County DYW Program.  Scholarship money will be given in five categories: scholastic achievement, interview, fitness, talent, and self-expression.

The overall winner will earn $3,000 and move on to compete at the state and potentially, national level for thousands of dollars in scholarships.

“Our mission is to empower high school young women by scholarship opportunities, developing self-confidence and teaching crucial life skills needed for success in college and beyond,” said Demisha Stough, chairman of the Dallas County DYW Program.

“These young ladies have been working really hard learning dance routines, practicing talents, and working on their interview skills, all while beginning their senior year of school.”

The Dallas County DYW program has been a vital part of the Alabama Distinguished Young Women Program since 1977. In keeping with the tradition of excellence, many representatives placed at the state level.

Tickets are available from the contestants or can be purchased at the door for $10.

Morgan Academy’s Julia “McCann” Perkins (2023) won the competition last year.

Stough, a retired teacher with the Selma City Schools, thanked the businesses in Selma and Dallas County for contributing to the event.

“We would like to thank our local businesses and individuals for your continued support of this scholarship program,” Stough said. “Without your contributions, this program would not be possible.”

Stough won the event when in 1983 when it was called Junior Miss.