Pitts named Starkvilles 2012 Distinguished Young Woman

March 12, 2011

For the Daily News

Distinguished Young Women of Starkville formerly Starkville’s Junior Miss Scholarship Program, awarded scholarships to high school girls throughout the area on February 26.  
 Mallory Pitts won the title of Starkville’s Distinguished Young Woman for 2012 on February 26, during the program at Lee Hall Auditorium. She won $4,750 in cash scholarships, and the opportunity to compete for the title of Distinguished Young Women of Mississippi on July 21-23, in Meridian.
The state winner will travel to Mobile, Ala. in June 2012 to participate in personal development activities and community service projects before competing 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.
According to the Distinguished Young Woman Committee of Starkville, “Mallory is the epitome of the Distinguished Young Woman Award.  Scholarship, Talent and Leadership are the cornerstones of this program.” 
Another testament to the exceptional character of this young woman is the fact that Mallory was selected by her peers as the recipient of the Spirit Award.  “It is rare to see such a strong work ethic and persistent attitude to achieve to the best of one’s ability in a high school student.  She will work hard to prepare for the state program that will be held July 24-26 in Meridian.  We are proud of all 11 contestants who are winners and reaped the benefits of this excellent program,” organizers said.
Eleven high school girls participated in the Starkville program, all of whom are members of the graduating class of 2012. Other awards presented include: Mallory Pitts: Overall Fitness and Spirit Award, first alternate: Megan Gammill; second alternate, Overall Scholastic and Overall Talent: Lauren Hughes; and Be Your Best Self Essay Award to Hannah Fischer.
 Founded in 1958 in Mobile, Ala., 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.
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.  National sponsors include the City of Mobile, Mobile County, Encore Rehabilitation, Spanx Foundation, Mobile Gas: a Sempra Company, Ala., Power Foundation, and Regions Bank.
 For more information about Distinguished Young Women of Starkville, contact Susan Keith at skeith@hotmail.com.