Allen County-Scottsville seniorBrooklynn Melton was chosen as the 2027 Allen County Distinguished Young Woman following the annual program last Saturday night at the high school. The achievement qualifies Melton to represent Allen County at the state program in January in Lexington. 

Melton not only won the overall title but also took home several preliminary awards. She placed first in the talent competition, self-expression, interview, and scholastic categories. Melton was runner-up in fitness and also the co-recipitant of the Elmer Bashor Spirit of Junior Miss Award. 

Senior Alexis Shubert was the first alternate. She also took top honors in fitness and was the runner-up in talent, self-expression, scholastic, and interview areas. Schbert received the Be Your Best Self award and the Community service awards. Shubert shared the Spirit of Junior Miss Award. 

The DYW program is unique in that participants can earn scholarships through their participation and placement. Melton receives a $1,000 cash scholarship as the DYW winner with Shubert earning a $700 cash scholarship at first alternate. Additional cash scholarships were earned as a category winner or runner up. In addition, Campbellsville University, Kentucky Wesleyan College, Lindsey Wilson University, and the Galen College of Nursing guarantee scholarships to the winner and runner-up if the candidates elect to attend their college or university. 

The state DYW program will be in January in Lexington. Melton will spend a week with a host family while preparing for the program’s public ceremony