Girls State kicks off today

By Brian Cornwell | Troy Messenger

Published Saturday, June 6, 2009

Troy University will play host to around 325 high school girls in the town’s 10th year of Girls State.

Girls State, created 50 years ago in Alabama, has been around nationwide for 67 years and in Troy for 10.

“Girls State is a hands on practical learning experience that provides valuable insight to state government function,” said Lee Sellers, director of the Alabama chapter of Girls State.

Rising high school senior girls are selected from a series of different qualities, either by their school or the American Legion Auxiliary, who is the Girls State sponsor.

The qualities that the girls can be selected for range from services to their school and the general public, to academics, personality, interests in government and leadership potential.

One girl is selected from each school across the state, and then they are given the opportunity to join Girls State.

“The girls gain knowledge of their government and its inner workings,” Sellers said. “The girls also gain confidence by running for office among their peers.”

While in Troy the participants will run for mock government offices.

Upon being selected for office, they are assigned certain responsibilities to perform during the week.

“Girls State helps create a deeper appreciation for government and gain a sincere love of country,” Sellers said.

The participants will have the opportunity to visit the State Capitol and meet Gov. Bob Riley.

In addition, the Girls State elected officials will also have the opportunity to meet with the real counterparts of their office.

“This program is an inspirational program, not only does it create a pride in country, but it also creates a since of pride in oneself,” Sellers said.

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