Owatonna’s Abigail Hansen to Compete in National Distinguished Young Women Finals

Abigail Hansen, of Owatonna, will compete in the 60th Distinguished Young Women National Finals in Alabama in late June.

Hansen leaves Father's Day weekend to begin preparations for the competition. She is one of 51 finalists for the honor. Each will be judged in five categories during the finals June 29-30 and July 1 at the Mobile Civic Center. A live webcast will be featured through DistinguishedYW.org according to a press release from the organization.

Scholastic accomplishments and interview skills carry the heaviest weight during the process. Talent, fitness and self-expression are also judged. At stake are thousands of dollars in scholarship awards. Contestants will also complete community service projects and take part in team building activities.

I saw Hansen present a harp concert last winter and she has extraordinary musical talent. She also handled herself quite well during time taking questions from the packed room that evening. She has excelled during numerous interviews with KRFO radio over the years connected with her participation in 4H. Hansen has also been the voice of the Terry's Repair on-air ads with her brother Oliver.

Since earning the state honor, Hansen has been preparing for the national event. Executive Director Kendra Haskins for Distinguished Young Women states in the news release, "There young women have shown a work ethic and demonstrated commitment to being leaders in the area of scholarship, leadership and talent. We know the future is in good hands with there dedicated young ladies." The winner will represent the organization over the next year at various appearances.

Hansen, a graduate of Shattuck-St. Mary's School in Faribault, is the daughter of Bret and Kari Hansen.