On Sunday, July 8, 2018, Mallory MacKenzie, Choctaw County’s Distinguished Young Woman, arrived in Meridian to compete for the title of Mississippi’s Distinguished Young Woman for 2019.
Mallory, along with twenty-nine other participants, went to rehearsals and events daily. First, the contestants were treated to a bowling party with host families (participants stay in the homes of host families while in Meridian). Secondly, the contestants visited a retirement center, signed autographs at Belle G, and enjoyed a Distinguished Red Carpet Social. Lastly, the contestants were able to attend a Judges’ Party, meet the judges, and get to know them in an informal setting.
The first preliminary was held on Thursday night with MacKenzie performing her lyrical dance/tumbling talent “This is Me” from the movie “The Greatest Showman.” The second preliminary was held on Friday night with MacKenzie competing in Self-Expression, where she answered a question on-stage, and Fitness.
Finals for the state program were held on Saturday, July 14, once again at the Evangel Temple in Meridian. At the end of the night, MacKenzie was named the overall fitness winner and was awarded a $1,000.00 scholarship.
At the local program in March, MacKenzie was awarded $5,500. Total now awarded in cash scholarships is $6,500.00.
In her hometown of French Camp, Mallory will be a senior at French Camp Academy, where she is a member of numerous organizations. She plans to attend Mississippi State University and major in school counseling.
Mallory is the daughter of Stuart and Kim MacKenzie.
The Twentieth Century Club of Ackerman sponsors the program that is held every year in March. All 11th grade ladies who reside in Choctaw County are invited to participate in this worthwhile program that promotes scholarship, leadership, and talent in young women.
