The 2026 DYW Program Launched with Theme “Believe,” as this year’s participants met to discuss the schedule for the upcoming DYW season.  The kickoff event for the 2026 Distinguished Young Women (DYW) program took place on January 12, marking an exciting start for the six Junior girls participating this year. The gathering introduced the participants to the values and expectations of DYW, provided an overview of the event schedule, and established the tone for the months ahead.

During the kickoff, each Distinguished Young Woman introduced themselves, their parents, and their hostess. Participants were given the opportunity to choose their participant numbers as part of the kickoff event.

#1: Abbie Cox, the daughter of Phillip & Becky Cox, hostess Shantel Tavoian

#2: Kaycee Venable, the daughter of Parker & Nicona Venable, hostess Hailey Sweeten

#3: Paityn Ward, the daughter of Brandon & Terra Ward, hostess Storm Hammer

#4: Emree Hanks, the daughter of Travis & Hailee Hanks, hostess Kelli McClellan

#5: Kelty Thomas, the daughter of Matt & Brianna Thomas, hostess Lacey Daniels

#6: Delanie Walton, the daughter of Ryan & Natalie Walton, hostess Karlee Lewis

A key part of the kickoff was introducing the participants, their parents, and the hostesses to the DYW program’s judging requirements. The scholarship program is evaluated across five categories, each contributing to the final score:

Scholastics: 25%

Interview:  25%

Talent:  20%

Fitness:  15%

Self-Expression:  15%

We are excited this year for these participants to have this opportunity. Mark your calendars for May 2, 2026, for the DYW program night, and join us in Marsh Valley to see these incredible young women showcase the hard work over the next four months.