MOUNT VERNON — Stephanie Yasechko, Trumbull County, is the 2012 Distinguished Young Woman of Ohio. The announcement of her win over 24 other talented young ladies came Saturday evening after a week of rehearsals, preliminary competition and two nights of entertainment at Memorial Theater that showcased everyone’s accomplishments. Yasechko also earned one of two interview awards and one of two self-expression awards.
In the self-expression segment of Friday’s program, Yasechko said one of the qualities her mentors have instilled in her is to never let fear get in the way of reaching her goals. Overcoming her trepidation about participating in the DYW program paid off big time.
“It’s so amazing. I feel so blessed,” she said after being named the winner. “I love all of these people here and I couldn’t be more proud.”
Yasechko’s mother, Kimberly Bagnoli was stunned when Yasechko won. “I’m shocked,” she said. “She didn’t even want to come. She was chickening out. We’re very proud. All the time she puts in, she deserves it.”

