Maggie Kate Rogers was selected as the 2025 Distinguished Young Woman of Marion County by a panel of judges Jan. 6 at The Church on Main.
The daughter of Danny and Kim Rogers, the Columbia Academy junior received $750 from the Distinguished Young Woman of Marion County Committee as the winner. In addition, she was the recipient of a $100 scholastic scholarship presented in honor of Dr. Santana Holloway, a $100 talent scholarship presented in memory of Mattie McDowell and a $100 self-expression scholarship presented in honor of Judy Griffith.
“I am both honored and excited to serve as Marion County’s DYW,” Rogers said. “Last week was nothing short of phenomenal. To my fellow participants, thank you for the encouragement and kind words throughout the rehearsals and back stage. We share a special bond, and I feel that we have made new lifelong friends.”
Rogers will represent Marion County at the class of 2025 Distinguished Young Women of Mississippi program, set for July 11-13, 2024 in Meridian.
“I also want to say thank you to the DYW committee for an amazing experience and opportunity,” she said. “I cannot wait to work with you all more as we prepare for the state competition.”
Two juniors from West Marion High School were also honored — first alternate Shidisha Watts, daughter of Sharon Allen-Watts, and second alternate Kirsten Williams, daughter of Ruby Mark.
As first alternate, Watts received a $450 scholarship from the Distinguished Young Woman of Marion County Committee. She was also the recipient of a $100 interview scholarship presented in memory of Jean M. Cavin, a $100 fitness scholarship sponsored by the Whittington family and a $100 Be-Your-Best-Self Essay scholarship sponsored by Tanya Holland Real Estate.
Williams was honored with a $150 scholarship from the Distinguished Young Woman of Marion County Committee and was the recipient of a $100 Spirit of DYW award sponsored by The UPS Store.
Each year, participants select an attendant and a backstage helper, known as a little sister. Rogers’ attendant was Harper Grace McKenzie, and her little sister was Caydence Smith. Watts was accompanied by her attendant Karima Varnado and her little sister Marion Jordan. Williams’ attendant was Melody Smith, and her little sister was Zariah Thompson.
Will Jordan served as this year’s Master of Ceremonies, and outgoing 2023 Marion County Distinguished Young Woman Sandra Thomas presented her farewell speech. Regional Director Megan Smith was also in attendance.
“The young ladies participating in the DYW of Marion County scholarship program represent the best of Marion County,” 2025 committee member Vickie Davis said. “The opportunity to work with these young ladies in preparation for this year’s program encouraged me that the future is bright for Marion County.”
About Distinguished Young Women
Established in 1958, Distinguished Young Women (formerly known as Junior Miss) is the largest scholarship program for high school girls with a mission to empower young women to reach their full potential by providing scholarship opportunities for college as well as personal development to become confident leaders. For more information, visit distinguishedyw.org.
2025 Distinguished Young Woman of Marion County Committee members include:
Vickie Davis, Allison Foxworth, Tami Johnson, Melissa Jordan, Carla Kyzar, Mary Nell Livingston, Christie McNeal, Brooklyn Robbins, Danon Vest, Danielle Whittington (assistant chairwoman), Leitha Williamson and Anna Woodrow (chairwoman).
2025 Distinguished Young Woman of Marion County Sponsors:
Corporate:
Sapphire–$500, Citizens Bank; Ruby–$250, First Southern Bank; Topaz– $50, Sweet Olive Boutique
Patron Business:
Platinum–$200, KPR Business Consulting; Silver–$50, Eddie Ray Breakfield with SouthGroup Insurance and Mood Music; Bronze–$25, CJ’s Hair and Fashion and The UPS Store #4684
