Cumming Student is 'Distinguished Young Woman of Forsyth County'

Rising senior, Felicia Fletcher from West Forsyth High School has been awarded the title of Distinguished Young Woman of Forsyth County for 2012 and earns the opportunity to compete for the title of Distinguished Young Women of Georgia on July 30 in Marietta.

Fletcher will compete with 30 other contestants from across the state for scholarship money, the title of 'Georgia's Distinguished Young Woman,' and ultimately, a chance to be 'Distinguished Young Woman (formerly America’s Junior Miss) of America for 2012.'

Contestants are judged on academic achievement, community involvement, personal interview, self-expression, talent and physical fitness as demonstrated in a seven minute aerobic routine.

The young woman competed in an, 'at large' competition with other girls from across Georgia who do not have a Distinguished Young Woman (DYW) program in their county.

"I'm so honored to go to state representing my hometown county," said Fletcher. She added that only senior girls can compete for the scholarship.

“It's a one shot only opportunity to win the scholarship, but I will always be Forsyth County's Distinguished Young Woman for 2012," she said. "My sister was Cumming’s Junior Miss in 2010 and it’s really exciting to be the one doing it now. The program loves legacies...so it's really a very special program to be a part of."

The state winner will travel to Mobile, Alabama to participate in personal development activities and community service projects. Afterwards the state winner will compete with representatives from the other 49 states for the opportunity to become the Distinguished Young Woman of America for 2012 and for a share of more than $125,000 in cash scholarships.

“As with other scholarships, any wins will assist in furthering my education," she said.

As for her education goals, Fletcher plans are still undecided, but she is considering the University of Tennessee, Auburn University, and some Georgia campuses. Study possibilities are to major in fashion design, business, or communications.

Founded in 1958 in Mobile, Alabama, America’s Junior Miss, now Distinguished Young Women, is the largest and oldest national scholarship program for high school girls. During its 54 years of operation, the program has provided life-changing experiences for more than 700,000 young women. Last year Distinguished Young Women provided more than $63 million in cash and college scholarships opportunities, according to the DYW Web site.

Distinguished Young Women is a 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.

For more information about Distinguished Young Women of Georgia, click here.