Fort Dale Academy senior Sierra Teate was in shock when she was named Butler County’s Distinguished Young Woman in August.

“I was in shock for probably most of the night because it’s something that I’d worked really hard for,” Teate said. “And I didn’t really expect to get it because it’s one of those things that you want so bad that you don’t want to think you’re going to get it. I was in shock, but I’m very excited to represent Butler County at state.”

Teate will take part in the state program Jan. 17-18 at Frazer Methodist Church in Montgomery.

She’s been preparing for the competition since December.

“All of the representatives across the state met for an orientation in Montgomery at the beginning of December,” she said. “Since then I have been doing everything from putting outfits and costumes together for the show to learning our competition routines. I have also been keeping in touch with my host family in Montgomery and have been trying to stay in good health for the demanding rehearsal week.”

Teate said just a glance at the competition week schedule shows it will be a challenging week.

“I know I can easily expect hard work and many long nights,” she said. “… I have heard that the week of rehearsals is demanding and that the competition is very tough. Yet even though it is so difficult, everyone has told me that it is an extremely enjoyable and valuable experience.”

The opportunity to meet the other contestants and build new friendships is something that Teate is excited about.

“I am most looking forward to bonding with the other girls who are competing and also my host family,” she said. “I always love making new friends, and this is a fantastic group of girls.”

Regardless of what happens at the state competition, Teate said being named Butler County’s Distinguished Young Woman has already been a rewarding experience.

“Serving as the Distinguished Young Woman for Butler County has been an amazing opportunity,” she said. “I greatly enjoyed participating in Greenville’s downtown Halloween festivities and also participating in the Christmas parade. Also, many very young girls who took part in a DYW boot camp the week of our county program continue to recognize me at school and love giving me hugs, which I love returning!”

Teate, who won the talent, self-expression and interview portions of the local competition, will leave for the state competition on Friday.

Community members will have the opportunity to send Teate off with well wishes during a party at the Ritz Theatre Thursday.

It will begin at 6:30 p.m.