Present, Future Leaders Meet at Girls State

Oxford, Mississippi: — On June 18, 2024, the University of Mississippi played host to the 76th annual Girls State event sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary. This week-long leadership programme saw the participation of 165 rising high school seniors who represented as many as 78 high schools throughout the state.

Nurturing Future Leaders

The delegates, like Mae Brewer from Fulton, who participated in the event, arrived uncertain of their leadership abilities. But after rigorous activities aimed at fostering those skills, Brewer and many others left the venue feeling inspired about their potential to foster change in their communities. The programme has not only made Brewer and her peers more aware of the different government divisions but has also encouraged them to get more deeply involved in their local communities.

Mission of Empowerment

Girls State allows its delegates to take on roles in a bipartisan political system, thereby nurturing their leadership abilities. The week-long event saw interactions between the delegates and University administrators, elected state officials like the Auditor, Secretary of State, the House Speaker, and Oxford Mayor Robyn Tannehill. All of these interactions aim to empower these young women to become the change agents they desire to be.

Life-transforming Experience

For many attendees like Adyn Haley, of Eupora, the Girls State programme has been a life-changing experience. Initially unaware of what the event held, Haley mentioned the pleasant interactions with fellow participants that have contributed to women’s empowerment. The venue served as a hub for participants like Pegah Vasighi-Ansariar, of Jackson, who amidst the diverse perspectives shared by various speakers found the experience conducive for networking and forming friendships.

76 Years of Impact

As commented by Heather Burleson, who is serving her third year as Girls State director, “Girls State has been impacting young ladies in the state for 76 years”. Through the opportunities that the programme offers, it aims to help these young women understand their leadership roles and how the legislative process works to shape the world around them.

Tags: Adyn Haley, American Legion Auxiliary, Bradley Baker, Eupora, Fulton, Geneva Montani, Gertrude C. Ford Ole Miss Student Union, Heather Burleson, Jackson, Jason White, Lynn Fitch, Mae Brewer, Magnolia Girls State, Michael Watson, Ole Miss, Oxford, Pegah Vasighi-Ansariar, Robyn Tannehill, Shad White, University of Mississippi, Women’s Empowerment

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