MERIDIAN, Miss. (WTOK) – The final night of the 2026 Distinguished Young Women of Mississippi program was held at Evangel Temple on Saturday evening.
The Class of 2026 consisted of 32 representatives from across the Magnolia State who competed in scholastic, interview, self-expression, talent, and fitness over the course of the week.
Lafayette Countyās Lainey Schuesselin was chosen as the 2026 Distinguished Young Woman of Mississippi and will receive a $10,000 cash scholarship. She also received the Overall Preliminary Awards in Fitness (a $1,000 cash scholarship), Self-Expression (a $1,000 cash scholarship), and Talent (a $1,000 cash scholarship).
On Friday evening at the conclusion of Night 2 of the preliminary competition, scholarships were awarded in four areas of competition. Each preliminary award recipient was awarded a $400 cash scholarship.
Rankin Countyās Maylee Gilmer was chosen as the recipient of a $1,500 Cash Scholarship for her āBe Your Best Selfā video submission representing what the programās āBe Your Best Selfā motto means to her. The 5 Elements of the Be Your Best Self Program for Distinguished Young Women are:
On Saturday, the Finals began with the announcement of Top 10.
Scott Countyās Kimberly Ramirez was chosen as this yearās Distinguished Young Woman of Mississippi āSpiritā Award, which is voted on by the participants each year, and she will receive a $1,000 cash scholarship.
Starkvilleās Mary Holland Nicholas was named the 1st Alternate and recipient of a $5,000 cash scholarship and the winner of the Overall Scholastic award and will receive a $2,000 cash scholarship.
Lamar Countyās Mia Holmes was named the 2nd Alternate and will receive a $3,000 cash scholarship.
Madison Countyās Mary Emerson Swindell was selected as the 3rd Alternate and recipient of a $2,000 cash scholarship.
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