Emma Madison of Brewton was named the 2027 Escambia County Distinguished Young Woman on Saturday evening, taking the top honor at the annual scholarship program held at Flomaton High School and securing more than $161,000 in scholarship opportunities in the process.
Madison, the daughter of Heath and Lawanna Madison, was one of six local high school seniors who competed for the title after months of preparation in categories that include scholastics, interview, talent, self-expression and fitness. Beyond the overall title, Madison also picked up the program’s “Spirit of DYW” award along with the Talent, Interview and Scholastics awards, sweeping several of the individual honors handed out during the evening.
The Distinguished Young Woman program, which has run in Escambia County for decades, positions itself as a scholarship and leadership development opportunity rather than a traditional pageant, with judges evaluating participants on academic performance and interview skills alongside an on-stage talent showcase. Scholarship money is awarded to all participants based on their combined scores, regardless of where they ultimately place in the final standings.
Aleah Livingston, a student at Escambia Academy and the daughter of Tyra and Steve Livingston, finished as first runner-up, earning more than $114,000 in scholarship opportunities. Livingston won the program’s “Be Your Best Self” award and shared a Talent award recognition during the evening.
Bradleigh Stinson, a student at J.U. Blacksher High School and the daughter of Lori Stinson and the late Brad Stinson, placed second runner-up. Stinson secured more than $112,000 in scholarship opportunities and also received the program’s Scholastics award.
As the newly crowned county titleholder, Madison advances to represent Escambia County at the state level of the Distinguished Young Woman of Alabama program, where she will compete against winners from other Alabama counties for additional scholarship funding and the statewide title.
The Escambia County program relies on sponsorships and community support from area businesses and individuals to fund the scholarship packages awarded each year, with organizers emphasizing that the financial support extends to every participant who takes the stage, not just the top finishers.