COLUMBIA—Callie Newsome was recently selected as the 2026 Distinguished Young Woman of Marion County in the program’s at-large event.
“I’m incredibly honored to represent Marion County,” said Newsome. “This experience has been inspiring, from meeting new people to learning more about being my best self.”
The daughter of Calvin and Percynthia Newsome, the East Marion High School junior will represent Marion County at the class of 2026 Distinguished Young Women of Mississippi program, set for July 17-19, 2025 in Meridian.
“I’m currently preparing for the state program in July by staying fit and beginning to work on my Be Your Best Self project, which I am really excited about completing,” she said. “I have met some incredible young women, and I am looking forward to going through this process with them and making more friends from across the state.”
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.
2026 Distinguished Young Women 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).
