For 76 years, the best and brightest juniors from around the state have represented their home schools at the Rhododendron Girls State, held this year at Davis and Elkins College June 10-15. Fifteen students from Bridgeport High School were in attendance among the nearly 400 participants who were immersed in all things government.

 

Since its inception in 1941, nearly 30,000 young women have taken part in the tradition of Rhododendron Girls State, a non-partisan program that instills a love of God and country in young ladies around the Mountain State.  Each year, the American Legion Auxiliary National Convention coordinates a wide variety of notable speakers to encourage and educate the girls on the roles of government.

 

Attendees have the opportunity to participate in art contests, a talent show, a fitness challenge, and several classes.  They are also encouraged to run for various government and civilian positions in a mock society, learning the impact of advocating for one’s beliefs.  

 

This year, West Virginia State Treasurer John Perdue, West Virginia Secretary of State Mac 

Warner, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito and Attorney General Patrick Morrisey were among the presenters who represented government in the Mountain State.  The group also had the opportunity to Skype with Joe Manchin and then listen to P.O.W. Iraq War Veteran Private First Class Jessica Lynch in a keynote address over lunch.

 

“The speakers were very inspiring and covered a wide array of topics that helped us understand how we can make a difference in government,” said BHS Junior Maddie Lalama. “The experience gave us the opportunity to not only learn about the roles of government, but to role play the processes involved and make new friends.”

 

The 2018 Rhododendron Girls State participants form Bridgeport High School included Laiken Cook, Alexis Smith, Lilah Kimble, Isabelle Cunanan, Anna Casto, Kaylee Smith, Caroline Fulks, Kirstin George, Sydney Poling, Fallyn Swiger, Katelyn Stanley, Katelyn Minor, Eleanor Noone, Madelyn Lalama, and Carol Maya Wiltshire.