A week of practice has all led up to this afternoon's Distinguished Women of Louisiana competition at the Coughlin-Saunders Performing Arts Center.
Nine high school juniors from across the state came to Central Louisiana for the scholarship program--formerly known as Junior Miss.
The girls began the show with a dance to "Footloose" before the competition began.
Contestants were judged on scholarship, interview, talent, fitness and self-expression--categories that represent a well-rounded young woman.
Before the competition, winner Sarah Gandy said, "I guess my favorite category would probably be self-expression just because I love getting dressed up and getting out there and getting to strut my stuff. It's going to be really fun. We have to answer an on-stage question, so we have a little time before. We're just thinking about that but trying to take everything else one at a time."
This competition isn't about winning a crown. The winner received a cash scholarship to the college of her choice.
