Rowell crowned county DYW

Published 12:00 am Wednesday, August 3, 2016

First runner-up Bailey Lancaster of Escambia Academy (left) poses for a picture with Maggie Rowell, winner of the 2017 Distinguished Young Women event. | Chastity Wiggins/For the Advance

First runner-up Bailey Lancaster of Escambia Academy (left) poses for a picture with Maggie Rowell, winner of the 2017 Distinguished Young Women event. | Chastity Wiggins/For the Advance

Bailey Lancaster of Escambia Academy finished as the first runner-up at the 2017 Distinguished Young Women event Saturday in Brewton.

Lancaster was one of nine participants who were vying for the top prize, which went to Maggie Rowell of T.R. Miller and Brewton.

Lancaster is the daughter of Steve and Mary Beth Lancaster. She performed a vocal solo of “Welcome to the 60s” from the Broadway musical, “Hairspray.” Lancaster was awarded first place in the category.

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Winners for each category were:

• Be Your Best Self Essay, Bailey Lancaster,

• Spirit Distinguish Young Woman Award, Esmeralda Franco,

• Scholastics Award, Maggie Rowell,

• Interview, Maggie Rowell,

• Talent, Bailey Lancaster,

• Fitness, Payton Baxter

• Self-Expression, Madison Carpenter

Each of the young ladies competing was awarded numerous scholarships. In total, $1,475,000 was awarded in scholarships.

Distinguished Young Women is a national scholarship program that inspires high school girls to develop their full, individual potential through a fun, transformative experience that culminates in a celebratory showcase of their accomplishments.

Rowell will next represent the county at the state level in Montgomery in January.