Girls compete in Distinguished Young Women pageant

PULLMAN — Ten high school seniors are competing to represent the state of Washington in the 2021 America's Distinguished Young Women Program.

Participants include Ruth Bresee of Coulee City, Molly Williams of Clarkston, Kari Largent of Colfax; Josie Schultheis of Colfax, Tanya Alvarado-Castro of Ellensburg, Tovah Brantner of Palouse, Ava Saint John of Ritzville, Emma Anderson-Johnsen of Mattawa, Lauren Tolley of Moses Lake and Kelsi Benton of Pullman.

Due to coronavirus regulations, the public will not be in the audience for judging Saturday, Aug. 1.

This is the state's 63rd annual scholarship program.

"Its goal is to emphasize education by providing scholarship opportunities to outstanding college-bound high school girls, and to encourage personal development in all young people," Chairwoman Carissa Little said, noting each participant will be judged on talent, fitness and self-expression.

The teens met individually via Internet with a panel of judges earlier.

The judging category, scholastic achievement, also was evaluated earlier.

Thousands of dollars in awards and college scholarships will be announced after the Aug. 1 program.