The mission of Distinguished Young Women is to empower young women to develop their full, individual potential by providing scholarships, personal development opportunities and a positive peer network. Aiken Scholars Academy Senior, Rena Humes, was awarded Distinguished Young Woman of South Carolina for 2025 this past weekend. The three day event was held at Southern Wesleyan University. Participants from all over South Carolina built skills in leadership, public speaking, and service. The culminating event was held Sunday, July 28th where participants showcased excellence in academic achievement, physical fitness, on-stage performance skills, and the ability to think and communicate clearly.
Rena will travel to Mobile, Alabama in June after her high school graduation to take part in the Distinguished Young Women National Finals. She'll spend two weeks getting to know participants from 50 states and Washington, D.C. while enjoying events and volunteering in the local community, developing Life Skills for college and beyond, and performing on stage to a national audience. She will represent South Carolina and ASA, while having the opportunity to win additional scholarship monies!