Emma Fugate poses on stage in May after being selected 2024 Distinguished Young Woman of Rhea County.(Photo:GaryBolden)

State Distinguished Young Women Program Will be held on campus of Lee University in Cleveland, Tennessee.

Dayton, Tn - 7/8/23

Emma Fugate Won the Title of Distinguished Young Woman of Rhea County back in May. She is now preparing to spend a week in Cleveland, Tennessee with a host family preparing to compete for the title of Distinguished Young Woman of Tennessee. The state competition will be held at the Dixon Center on campus of Lee University, in Cleveland, Tennessee.

Emma is the daughter of Ray and Shelly Fugate and is an only child. She is the granddaughter of Ron and Mary Sanders and the late Bruce and Cora Ann Fugate. Her great aunt is Susie Stalvey. Emma won over 10 other young girls, all Juniors in school in May. During that competition, she competed in fitness competition, interview category, and talent competition. She was also judged on her academics. Each section totaled a part of her final score. She was a winner in the self-expression category, academic category, and Interview category.

Emma was kind enough to answer a few interview questions before her trip to the State.

Why did you decide to compete in the Distinguished Young Women Program?

"I decided to get into the program because there are a lot of great opportunities that come with it. You get to do volunteer work, meet new people, become more comfortable speaking in public and getting in shape for the fitness routine."

What are some of the things the girls did together before the program night?

"We cooked dinner for families at Ronald McDonald House in Chattanooga. Later we made blankets for the Care Center in Dayton. We also did some fun events like bowling."

How many years did you participate in dance and why type of dances did you work on?

"I have been dancing ever since I was 4 years old. I was a part of Dayton Christian Ballet for 5 years where I performed ballet pieces. After that, I began to focus on competition and sideline cheer."

What are some of your hobbies and/or interests?

"I am a Rhea County High School cheerleader! This season, I am on both the sidelines and the competition team. I am also interested in traveling, cosmetology, and all University of Tennessee athletics!"

Talk a little about your little sister, Lily Jewell.

"Lily was the best little sister that I could ask for! She was always ready to help when I needed her. She prepared me for my interview, got me through the quick changes backstage, and was my biggest supporter throughout performance night! I am definitely going to miss her when I go off to state!'

How nervous were you on stage waiting for the announcement of the winner?

"I was extremely nervous while I was waiting for the announcement. My whole goal in being a part of the program was to meet new people, and grow as an individual. I was in shock when they announced me as the winner, and I am so grateful to be able to represent Rhea County at the state competition!"

Talk a little about what you will be doing during the week leading up to the State Competition in Cleveland.

"The program has many events lined up for us throughout the week we are in Cleveland! We will be rehearsing most of our time there, but they have scheduled a few community events as well. We will be visiting the Garden Plaza Retirement Home on Wednesday, and we will also be going to Baskin Robbins for our very own ice cream social!"

Will you be changing your performance piece for the State?

"My performance piece will mostly remain the same, but I am adding more difficulty to some sections."

What are some of the activities you will participate in during the year before passing the crown in next year's program?

"Over the next year, I will be participating in many community events! I will be a part of the Spring City Christmas Parade as well as the Strawberry Parade! Most importantly, I will be going to each 3rd class in the county and giving a presentation on the “Be Your Best Self” Program!"

Emma Fugate, and Baily Kinney 2023 Distinguised Young Woman with the program participants from May competition.