A week of leadership and learning
Submitted photo Wyoming Girls State was held June 7-13 at Laramie County Community College in Cheyenne. Lillie Morrill, Kyndal Von Eye and Josie Smith represented Newcastle and are pictured together at a formal banquet held on Friday, June 12, at the Cheyenne Ice and Events Center.
The moment delegates check in at the residence hall at Laramie County Community College in Cheyenne, they enter a new world filled with opportunities for learning, growth and leadership through the American Legion Auxiliary Girls State program.
Delegates leave behind the familiarity of their hometowns and become part of a statewide experience focused on government, citizenship and public service.
Shortly after check-in, delegates receive their dorm assignments and meet their junior counselors, senior counselors and fellow city members. They meet their roommates before attending their first city meeting, where they learn about positions available at the city, county, state and national levels. Counselors encourage every delegate to run for an office. The day continues with sessions, dinner and another city meeting before lights out at 10 p.m.
Each day offers new opportunities to learn about patriotism, government, elections and voting. The program is designed to expose delegates to real-world scenarios and provide hands-on experience with the governmental process.
I was elected fire chief on the first day of Girls State. I was a member of Cottonwood City, and throughout the week, your city becomes your home. You spend much of your time with fellow city members, and they quickly become like family. Strong friendships are formed, making the final goodbye bittersweet.
As the week progresses, delegates attend Senate and House sessions, observe court proceedings, run for office, deliver speeches and participate in elections. They learn about legislation and government through political parties and work to elect candidates for general office. Delegates debate bills with the goal of sending them to the governor and participate in nightly city meetings to prepare presentations, study for the Americanism test and build lasting friendships.
Many delegates begin their days with optional 5 a.m. fitness activities and spend late evenings preparing for court proceedings or the next dayβs events. Although the schedule can be demanding, the experience is well worth
the effort.
The week concludes with a banquet and ceremony recognizing delegates for their accomplishments. Delegates sing the Girls State song, share a meal and take photographs to commemorate the experience. Program leaders announce scholarship recipients, outstanding cities and outstanding delegates before participants return home.
From my perspective, Girls State was one of the best experiences I have had. It creates an atmosphere of learning and leadership among talented young women from across Wyoming. It was an honor to represent Newcastle.
I am grateful to the Newcastle American Legion Auxiliary Unit for sponsoring me, Kyndal Von Eye and Lillie Morrill. I encourage this yearβs juniors to apply. It is a one-of-a-kind experience that broadens your understanding of government, sharpens your leadership skills, and helps you build connections with people from across the state.
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