Julia Harrison, from Union High School, recently represented Newton County in the 68th annual Distinguished Young Women of Mississippi (DYW) program, held July 17–19 at Evangel Temple in Meridian.
Harrison, the daughter of Chad and Dr. Nicole Harrison, was one of 32 high school seniors from across the state selected to participate in this prestigious scholarship program. She was awarded $900 in scholarships, earning recognition in the Top Ten and receiving a Self-Expression Preliminary award.
Throughout the week, participants took part in rehearsals, community service projects, and a variety of special events including a Host Family Western Night, a Red Carpet Party, an autograph signing at Belle G’s, and a Girls’ Night gathering at the Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience Museum. In its third year, the program’s Be Your Best Self initiative challenged each participant to submit a two-minute video showcasing how they live out the program’s core values of healthy living, education, ambition, responsibility, and involvement.
In total, the Distinguished Young Women of Mississippi program awarded $36,900 in cash scholarships this year, continuing its mission of encouraging young women to pursue higher education and become confident leaders in their communities.
