ELKINS, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The American Legion Auxiliary Rhododendron Girls State will be returning to in-person attendance for 2022.
Davis & Elkins will host the American Legion Auxiliary Rhododendron Girls State in person- after two years of virtual attendance brought on by the pandemic.
Returning for its 79th year, the event will be held from June 12-17 next week, and will impart understanding of what it means to be an American citizen.
“Rhododendron Girls State is thrilled to be back on campus for a full in-person,” Dr. Rosemary Thomas, WV American Legion Auxiliary Rhododendron Girls State Director and D&E Executive Vice President, said. “Learning first-hand about our form of government on the hallowed grounds that were once occupied by Senators Davis and Elkins makes the learning process even more real.
“The College community plays an integral role in the entire week, serving as hosts and providing speakers, instructors, moderators and more. The environment lends itself to living and learning as well as fellowship and fun.”
The program will immerse attendees in education sessions with a focus on government and the election process, and will feature the formation of a mock government and participation in party caucuses.
Becoming “citizens” of Girls State, participants will have the opportunity to file for office, campaign, attend candidate speeches, vote, and participate in an inauguration ceremony.
Several top leaders and government officials from the Mountain State are schedule to speak at the event, including Senator Shelley Moore Capito, R-WV, Secretary of State Mac Warner, West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey, West Virginia House of Delegates Majority Leader Amy Summers, and others.
West Virginia author Diana Johnson and Coordinator of President’s Initiative on Community and Immersive Learning at Davis & Elkins College and Executive Director of The Old Brick Playhouse Missy Armentrout McCollam will be delivering keynote addresses.
Candidates for citizenship of Rhododendron Girls State are recommended by
their high schools based on a number of factors, which include interest in government, character and honesty, leadership, scholarship, knowledge of parliamentary procedures, and demonstration of above average scholastic achievement.
More information on Rhododendron Girls State can be found here