MADISON – Mary Caton ‘M.C.’ Davidson, a senior at James Clemens High School, has earned the honor of Distinguished Young Woman of Madison County.

“I knew a few older girls who had participated and knew about possible scholarship opportunities,” she said. “I knew I would make new friendships, have a chance to develop interview skills and hopefully gain more self-confidence.”

She already finds life is different after her win. Immediately, Mary Caton met new girls who shared the program’s stressful but rewarding experience and is connecting with other women across Alabama with DYW.

As Madison County representative, Mary Caton will attend DYW ceremonies in other counties. “The life lessons and friendships will stay with me forever. Next fall, scholarship money will help support my college education,” she said.

For her talent, Mary Caton performed a jazz dance to Sofi Tukker’s remix of “Copycat” by Billie Eilish. That selection was suitable for demonstrating techniques that she has learned by studying at The Dance Company.

During the interview segment, Mary Caton discussed her college plans, global current events and her opinion on political issues, such as gun control, President Trump’s blocks on social media and Sarah Sanders’ work.

DYW evaluates participants on scholastics (25 percent), interview (25), talent (20), fitness (15) and self-expression (15). “I didn’t win any individual category so I believe I was the most well-rounded girl and showed my passion to compete,” Mary Caton said.

At James Clemens, Mary Caton performs with the “The Blue Angels” competition dance team during home football pre-games and halftime for home varsity basketball. She is involved with Student Government, National Honor Society, Beta Club, Mu Alpha Theta, Junior Civitan and varsity girls’ tennis team.

“I’m taking advanced-placement and honors classes and focusing on James Clemens Medical Academy. I’ll be part of the internship program this fall,” Mary Caton said.

She tutors students in math and volunteered for Multiple Sclerosis Walk, Read Around Madison and A New Leash on Life. For the second summer, she has lifeguarded at Dublin Pool.

Her parents are Tim and Beth Davidson, who both work as engineers on Redstone Arsenal.

From her county honor, Mary Caton will use the $2,000 scholarship at the University of Alabama to study food and nutrition with a pre-medicine focus.

Mary Caton will vie for the state title at Frazer United Methodist Church in Montgomery on Jan. 17-18, 2020.