Distinguished Young Women scholarship program planned

The nine hopefuls competing for scholarship in the
Distinguished Young Women of Wayne-Westland
Class of 2021 prepare for the March 6 event.

The 53rd Distinguished Young Women of Wayne-Westland Scholarship Program will take place beginning at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, March 6 at Wayne Memorial High School. Nine contestants from Wayne, Westland and Inkster will compete for thousands of dollars in college scholarships and the chance to represent our communities at local events and at the state finals in July 2020. This scholarship program is based on academic scholastics, leadership, physical fitness and talent.
At the local program on March 6, contestants will perform an opening number and compete in a performing arts talent routine, a physical fitness routine and self expression. Contestants are also evaluated based on academic scholastics and an interview.

“This is an amazing group of smart and talented young women and we are excited to have them showcase their talents at our 53rd annual scholarship program. We invite the public to come and support these accomplished young women” said Lauren Reed, Distinguished Young Women of Wayne-Westland co-director.
Competing this year are Isabella Riopelle, Zuriel Phillips, Shannon Blevins, La 'Tavia Ventress, Morgan Butler, Emma Elinski, Savannah Byers, Wendy Santiago-Rivera and Arleth Gonzalez.
Tickets to the event can be purchased from any participant or on the night of the show for $10. All proceeds go toward scholarship awards.
The Wayne-Westland Local Program is part of the Distinguished Young Women of America, which has impacted the lives of more than 765,000 young women since it first began in 1958. “Our mission is to empower high school young women by providing scholarship opportunities, developing self-confidence and teaching crucial life skills needed for success in college and beyond,” Reed said.
National sponsors include Mobile County, City of Mobile, Alabama Power Foundation, Encore Rehabilitation, Wintzell's Oyster House, Master Boat Builders, Barbara Barrington Jones Family Foundation, Evonik, Regions Financial Corporation, Jostens and Alabama Media Group.
For more information about Distinguished Young Women, contact Jessica Sawyer,
National Headquarters Marketing and Communications Director, at (251) 438-3621 or Jessica@DistinguishedYW.org or visit www.DistinguishedYW.org.