Legion Auxiliary Girls State 2016

Legion Auxiliary Girls State 2016

Annual delegation selected for leadership program

ralphhardin@gmail.com The American Legion Auxiliary’s marquee Girls State program, first presented in the late 1930s, is one of the most respected and coveted experimental learning programs presented in the United States.

The program epitomizes the American Legion’s mission to honor those who have preserved traditional American freedoms through an enduring commitment to develop young women as future leaders grounded in patriotism and the American spirit. These young women become knowledgeable of the democratic process and how our republic and its government work at the state and national level. As stated in its charter, Girls State seeks to “develop leadership and pride in American citizens, educate citizens about our system of government, instill a greater understanding of American traditions, and stimulate a desire to maintain our democratic government processes within our republic.” Each year, a selection of high school juniors and seniors is chosen to attend Girls State.

Students must be keenly interested in government and current events, have high moral character, show strong leadership abilities and be above average in scholastic achievement.

Local students chosen for the Girls State 2016 program were: Melanie Blakely, Paige Bowser, Ally Bramucci, Teasia Carter, Riley Elmore, Shanel Gray, Karmen Jones, Jamea Macklin, Morgan Masengale, Jaterria McClure, Audrey Morgan, Allison Nanney, Annalee Parker, Eva Pouncey, Rileigh Smith, Zakiah Smith, Lara Tarr, Anna Winter and Riley Young.

These young ladies will represent American Legion Auxiliary Unit 53 at Girls State from May 29 to June 3, with support from American Legion Post 53, Arkansas Distributing Co., Fidelity National Bank, Flash Market Inc., Guaranty Loan & Real Estate, Marion High School, Thomas Wrecker, and the West Memphis Rotary Club.

By Ralph Hardin