Distinguished Young Women compete in Pullman

Caralyn Cutlip of Ellensburg High School was named Washington’s representative to the 2014 Distinguished Young Women national program in a ceremony Saturday at Beasley Coliseum in Pullman.

Colfax’s Katie Largent (top right) earned the $300 Spirit Award after being chosen by her fellow participants. She is the daughter of Gary and Lisa Largent.

A total of 20 high school seniors-to-be competed in the categories of fitness, talent, self-expression and interview.

The first runner-up was Naomi Miller of Chewelah, followed by Ritzville’s Dalyn Killian.

In addition to Largent, other Whitman County representatives included Elizabeth Eakin of Oakesdale (top left), Heather Young of Colton-Uniontown (left center) and Michaela Schad of Pullman (bottom left).

Saturday evening’s program was hosted by three national winners from Washington.

Linda Felber of Colfax (right), Lenne Jo Hallgren of Clarkston, and the current title holder, Nicole Renard (top, with Largent) of Kennewick.

Felber earned the honor in 1964, after winning Colfax and Washington Junior Miss titles. Hallgren earned her title in 1976.

During the ceremony, Hallgren told of how, during her year as national representative, she met President Ford and received roses from Princess Grace (Kelly) of Monaco.

Felber said the highlight of her year was meeting the Beatles.

The Junior Miss program name was changed to Distinguished Young Women two years ago.