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Emma Neal of Forest City is the 1st runner-up in the Distinguished Young Woman (DYW) of America program. She received the honors Saturday night in the national DYW program. Destiny Kluck from Georgia was named America's DYW.
The East Rutherford High School senior made history in the 2021 America's DYW program, said DYW committee member Rhonda Owens.
"She won a preliminary in fitness, she was top 8 finalist, and then was named 1st runner-up. She is the third Rutherford County DYW to go to National but the first to bring home awards," Owens said.
All three of Emma's national competitions were virtual just as the March 2020 program in Rutherford County was virtual due to COVID-19. She was named the DYW of Rutherford County that March, then in January of 2021 was named DYW of North Carolina and on Saturday night was the first runner up in America.
"DYW has been an experience I will forever be grateful for, but I will never forget the unwavering support of my county and local community," Emma said. "The love and well wishes I have received have changed my heart forever."
For her talent, Emma performed a lyrical dance to "Still"
The eight finalists for America were Aris Zhu from Arizona, Destiny Kluck from Georgia, Cosette Wu from Hawaii, Wendy Wei from Kentucky, Emma Neal from North Carolina, Taylor Schneider from Tennessee, Annie Zhu from Texas, and Veronica Goveas from Wisconsin.
Because the program was virtual Emma and her family and friends joined DYW committee members and friends on Park Square in Forest City for a viewing party on Saturday night where she learned was first runner up.
"Thanks to all the wonderful supporters who joined us for these exciting three days," Owens said
Emma is the daughter of Karen Neal and John Neal and she has two sisters, Alex and Anna. She is also the granddaughter of Brenda Neal and Cindy Toney.
Forest City Mayor Steve Holland named June 25, 2021 Emma Neal Day in Forest City.
"We are so proud of Emma," Holland said.
