By Jeff Devine, The Chronicle
Ella Hicks, a student at George W. Long High School, has been selected as the new Distinguished Young Woman of Dale County.
Hicks will represent Dale County through the Distinguished Young Women program, a national scholarship program that recognizes and encourages young women for their accomplishments in academics, leadership, talent, and other areas of personal development.
The Distinguished Young Women of Alabama program provides opportunities for participants to compete for scholarships while developing life skills and building relationships with other young women from across the state. Dale County is one of Alabama’s local Distinguished Young Women programs.
Hicks has already established herself as an active and accomplished student at G.W. Long.
Earlier this year, Hicks earned second place in the Alabama Farm-City high school video competition. Her recognition came during the 2026 Alabama Farm-City Awards program, where she was honored alongside students from across the state for their work highlighting the importance of agriculture and its role in Alabama.
According to the Alabama Farmers Federation, Hicks represented G.W. Long High School in Dale County and received $200 for her second-place finish in the ninth- through 12th-grade video competition.
Hicks has also participated in G.W. Long’s agricultural and leadership development activities. School-related recognition shows her earning honors in agricultural education and participating in Leadership Development Events.
Her selection as Distinguished Young Woman of Dale County adds another accomplishment to a growing list of achievements for the G.W. Long student.
The Distinguished Young Women program is designed to recognize young women not only for academic achievement, but also for leadership, talent, and their potential to make a positive impact in their communities.
As Dale County’s newest Distinguished Young Woman, Hicks will now have an opportunity to represent her community while continuing her involvement in a program focused on scholarship, personal growth, leadership, and service.
The Distinguished Young Women of Alabama program is currently working with its 2027 program year, with local programs across the state preparing young women for participation in the statewide program.
The Chronicle congratulates Ella Hicks on being named the Distinguished Young Woman of Dale County and wishes her success as she begins this new chapter.
