Catherine Yanes of Andalusia was honored as the 2017 Youth of The Year for the State of Alabama on Sat., April 29, at the Knights of Columbus Alabama State Council 144th annual convention held in Montgomery.

Catherine was selected as the winner for Christ the King Catholic Church in Andalusia and automatically nominated for the state level.

This is one of the most prestigious awards conferred by the Knights at their annual convention. There are 88 Knights of Columbus Councils in the State of Alabama.

This merit-based award is based on service, charitable works and commitment to faith.

The Knights of Columbus was formed in 1882 to render financial aid to members and their families. Mutual aid and assistance are offered to sick, disabled and needy members and their families. Social and intellectual fellowship is promoted among members and their families through educational, charitable, religious, social welfare, war relief and public relief works. . Social and intellectual fellowship is promoted among members and their families through educational, charitable, religious, social welfare, war relief and public relief works.

She recently was also accepted into the University of Alabama’s Early College Program. The dual-enrollment program will allow her to take college level courses while in high school.

She is the daughter of John and Cheryl Yanes.