MOUNT VERNON — A weeklong schedule of activities resumed Monday at The Dan Emmett Conference Center for the 30 participants in the Distinguished Young Women of Ohio Scholarship Program. Mount Vernon Kiwanis Club President Ann Jordan welcomed the young women to the Kiwanis weekly luncheon before introducing Cheri Butcher, Ohio chairman for the DYM program.
“You now have the opportunity to learn all about these young ladies,” said Butcher. “And they also have chance to learn about the local civic programs here in Mount Vernon.”
related
Young women shine opening night February 26, 2011
Different criteria in judging for DYW February 25, 2011
Participants polishing their skills February 24, 2011
Young women enjoy time with children February 23, 2011
Kiwanis welcomes Distinguished Young Women February 22, 2011
Distinguished Young Women arrive in MV February 21, 2011
image gallery
With 2011 being a transition year in the program, Butcher explained how program executives have worked with a brand and image consulting firm as the Ohio Junior Miss Scholarship Program is now being called the Distinguished Young Women of Ohio Scholarship Program.
“That’s what they are,” said Butcher. “They are all distinguished in their own right.”
Butcher recognized the many individuals and organizations involved in this year’s program, including board members, and encouraged everyone to attend the programs this weekend which are Friday at 8 p.m. and Saturday at 7 p.m. at the Knox County Memorial Theater.
Each participant was then given an opportunity to introduce herself, tell a little about herself and where she comes from, and then give a response to a random question assigned earlier.
Mallory Spence, Fairfield County’s Distinguished Young Woman, was asked what she has done for the first time this week since arriving in Mount Vernon. “Having a sister close to my age,” she laughed, in telling how her sibling is only 3 years old. “It’s nice to have someone I can sit and talk to.”
When asked about her experience in Mount Vernon thus far, “I love it. Everyone is so nice,” said Spence. “They take great care of us, and it’s been a great experience so far.”
Representing Montgomery County was Keta Burke-Williams, who was asked what she would do if she had one hour for herself. “I would lie down with the grass all around my face and look at the clouds,” said Burke-Williams. “I would also maybe volunteer at the House of Bread, a place where they provide food donations.”
Greater Franklin County’s Alison Scudds was asked who she would pick if she were to choose one person she admires. “It would be my mom. She has always been there for me, encouraging me and pushing me to my limits,” said Scudds. “She is the reason I am who I am today.”
Wayne County’s Victoria Fox was selected to give a response for the group at the close of the luncheon. As she thanked the Kiwanis for hosting them, she told how she is looking forward to the rest of the activities this week. “I love Mount Vernon. It is so nice,” said Fox. “I love the buildings and the history. Everyone is really sociable. They all help each other.”
