Distinguished Young Women OF South Dakota


is part of a national scholarship program that promotes and rewards scholastics, leadership and talent in young women. Earn scholarships for higher education, personally develop through the DYW Life Skills Workshops, and make new friends from around the state.


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Photo of Paige Pederson
Paige Pederson
Distinguished Young Woman of South Dakota for 2023
State Program Information

Distinguished Young Women of South Dakota Class of 2024 Program

February 24, 2024

We are going virtual this year to avoid traveling in winter!

Recruiting applicants for our Class of 2025 Program being held this summer!

Life-Changing Experience

College scholarships are awarded at the state level and millions in college-granted scholarships are available nationally. The state representative will advance to the national program for the opportunity to compete for cash tuition scholarships. To participate, you must be graduating from high school in 2025. Participants are evaluated in the areas of: scholastics, interview, talent, self-expression, and fitness.


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2023 Distinguished Young Woman of South Dakota

Photo of Paige Pederson
Paige Pederson
FromVermillion
University PreferenceUniversity of Alabama
Career GoalFederal Law Enforcement

2023 Distinguished Young Woman of South Dakota

Photo of Paige Pederson
Paige Pederson
From
Vermillion

University Preference
University of Alabama

Career Goal
Federal Law Enforcement

Achievements:
Academic All-State Cheer SD American Legion Youth Trooper Academy Graduate All-State Cheer Girls State Delegate National Honors Society National Society of High School Scholars VFW Voice of Democracy Legion award winner

Activites:
Clay County Teen CourtPride of Vermillion Marching BandRhythm in Red Show ChoirTanager Cheerleading

Additional:
Clay County Teen CourtNorthern Plains Boxer RescueSt. Agnes Catholic School Red and Gold: Morning and Afternoon Assistant Teacher

2024 State Participants

Photo of Shannon Connor
Shannon Connor
CityRapid City
University PreferencePatrick Henry College
Career GoalLawyer
TalentWriting
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