The Dallas County Junior Miss Scholarship Program, now Distinguished Young Women, is currently taking applications from high school young women who plan to graduate in 2012.

Founded in 1958 in Mobile, Distinguished Young Women is the largest and oldest national scholarship program inspiring young women to develop their full potential. In 2010, the program awarded more than $63 million in cash and college scholarships. The organization’s local program, established in 1976, awards high school girls with more than $10,000 in scholarships annually.

Stephanie Bradford, communications director for the program, said the competition offers girls real world experience, which is the most important.

“This competition is immensely important,” Bradford said. “Our girls will gain confidence, improve interview skills and participate in physical fitness. They will be rewarded for their scholastic achievements.”

Interested applicants may apply online at www.DistinguishedYW.org. The deadline for all applications is May 18. The program will be held on August 27 at J.A. Pickard Auditorium.

Last year’s program winner was Rachael Sherrer, who plans to attend the University of Alabama in the fall.

For more information contact Ben Holifield at 606-6799 or Cassidy Grimes at 251-593-0535.