Laila Hunter, a dual enrolled senior at Dougherty Comprehensive High School, has been named the '"Youth of the Year" by the Exchange Club of Albany.

The designation comes with a $500 scholarship and makes Hunter eligible for a district scholarship and potentially recognition at the state and national levels as well.

Hunter earned the designation after writing a winning essay on the topic of "Many people have someone whom they admire, whether a parent, sibling, friend, teacher, mentor, etc.,"

According to the National Exchange Club website, the Youth of the Year scholarships honor outstanding students who have exhibited excellence in academics and leadership. Recipients serve as role models to their peers by exhibiting exceptional scholastic achievement, respect for self and others, and ambitious career goals.