Sandy American Legion Auxiliary Send Young Women to Girls State

By Cindee Clawson

The Girls State program is sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary in each respective state of the country to educate youth about civic responsibility and government processes.  For six days during the month of June, Weber State University hosts hundreds of girls selected throughout the State of Utah.  

This year 13 girls comprised of students from Alta, American Fork, Hillcrest and Jordan High Schools were selected by the Sandy American Legion Auxiliary, Post 77 Unit.  They represented their school as follows: Alta- Sydney Watkins, Ashley Jex, Rachel Pomeroy, Emory Springer Corner Canyon –Katie Bankhead, Abigail “Abby” Broadhead, Raquel Rhoads, Audrey Memott, Elizabeth “Lizzy” Ericksen Jordan- Kari Schott, Audrey Pozernick Junior Girls Auxiliary – Chiaura Champneys and Katelyn McBride

These students participated in an educational, hands on experience concerning government process through mock trials, elections, music, sports and seminars with public officials.  Each girl ran for offices on a city, county and state level.  Girls State delegates selected two senators to represent them later this year at Girls State Nation in Washington D.C.

These girls have the opportunity upon completion of the program to earn three semester hours political science credit towards a university of their choice.  

In addition, to the girls gaining a greater understanding of our democratic political process, is a deeper appreciation for the men and women and patriotism for our country.λ