Dea Kamberi, a senior at Doherty Memorial High School, has been named the 2025 Distinguished Young Woman of Massachusetts – a first for the Worcester Public Schools.
This prestigious recognition highlights Dea’s exceptional achievements across five key areas: scholastics, interview, talent, fitness, and self-expression. Dea will now represent Massachusetts at the national competition this summer in Alabama, where she will compete alongside winners from across the country.
The Distinguished Young Women (DYW) program, the nation’s largest and oldest scholarship program for high school girls, evaluates participants for their academic achievements, communication skills, performing arts talent, physical fitness, and self-expression. Dea’s selection was based on her stellar performance in these areas, making her a standout candidate among her peers.
Dea’s achievement as valedictorian of the Class of 2025 at Doherty Memorial High School showcases her commitment to academic excellence, including her work in Dual Enrollment courses at Quinsigamond Community College. Additionally, Dea’s piano performance in the DYW competition highlights her ability to integrate intellectual and creative pursuits.
“Dea approaches every challenge with discipline and attention to detail that few students possess” said Kristen Montgomery, Dea’s school counselor. “Her intellectual curiosity and passion for helping others make her a leader in our school community.”
Dea’s leadership extends into her community work as well. Through her role in the Bank of America Student Leaders Program and her internship at the Boys and Girls Club of Worcester, she has demonstrated empathy, initiative, and a strong sense of social responsibility. Dea’s success in the DYW competition embodies the values of Worcester Public Schools, where students are encouraged to be intellectually curious, socially responsible, and committed to continuous growth.
As the 2025 Distinguished Young Woman of Massachusetts, Dea will represent the state at the national competition in Alabama this summer, where she will compete for college scholarships and further opportunities for academic and personal development.
Worcester Public Schools (WPS) serves nearly 25,000 pre-K through grade 12 students across nearly 50 schools and programs in New England’s second-largest city. With a community-minded approach, WPS fosters engagement across diverse voices and provides a nurturing environment for students who speak over 70 languages. Committed to innovation, technology, and collaboration, WPS prepares its scholars for a future-ready workforce and a vibrant community.
