The annual Northwest Alabama Distinguished Young Women Scholarship Program took place Aug. 17 at Norton Auditorium on the campus of the University of North Alabama. Twenty-three young women from Colbert, Franklin and Lauderdale counties competed in scholastics, interview, fitness, talent and self-expression categories.
One participant from each county was selected to represent her county at the state program which will be held in January 2025. Contestants compete based on the county where they live. Colbert County’s 2025 Distinguished Young Woman is Ella Colagross of Russellivlle High School. Her parents are John and Brea Colagross. She also won the scholastics, fitness and talent categories.

Franklin County’s 2025 Distinguished Young Woman is Kimberly Cano of Russellville High School. She is the daughter of Hugo and Irma Lily Cano. She won the scholastics and self-expression categories, as well as the “Be Your Best Self” Essay Contest.

Lara Gunderman of Phil Campbell High School won Second Alternate for Franklin County. She is the daughter of Gary Gunderman, Amy and Tim McCollum.
First Alternate for Franklin County was awarded to Ella Goggans of Russellville High School. She is the daughter of Neal and Pam Taylor. She won first in the fitness and talent categories. For more information on scholarship opportunities for young women in this area, contact Susan Hargett at 256-710-9239 or Katernia Cole Coffey at 256-332-8880.