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American Legion AuxiliaryGirls State/Girls Nation
What single American Legion Auxiliary event can be inspirational, educational, life-changing, and fun? It is American Legion Auxiliary Girls State/Girls Nation, a marquee Auxiliary program since 1937. At American Legion Auxiliary Girls State, high school students who have completed their junior year are competitively selected to participate in the seven-day mock government program where they learn about civics and American government in a fast-paced, interactive program of campaigning, debating, voting, and electing mock local and state leaders.
 
Share your ALA Girls State/Girls Nation Memories
Are you a past ALA Girls State or ALA Girls Nation attendee or delegate?  We want to hear what the experience meant to you and how it influenced your role in the Auxiliary today. Email your story to alamagazine@ALAforVeterans.org



ALA Girls State | Go to Girls State
Auxiliary units in 49 states proudly host American Legion Auxiliary Girls State, an amazing week of learning focused on responsible citizenship and love for God and Country. Students are assigned to mock cities where, divided into the “Federalist Party” and “Nationalist Party,” they are immersed into learning about the political process from dedicated volunteers, making sure the program’s nonpartisan governmental, patriotic and civic objectives are carried out with intense learning along with some fun. The program directors also stay vigilant about raising the girls’ awareness of the importance of service, particularly to our veterans, their families and their communities.  Learn More...

ALA Girls Nation | Go to Girls Nation 
Two girls are selected from each American Legion Auxiliary Girls State program to attend American Legion Auxiliary Girls Nation, where they become “senators” who meet for a weeklong immersive learning in Washington, D.C. After running for office, electing a mock U.S. Girls Nation President, and campaigning for the passage of mock legislation, the participants meet with real-life national government leaders. The highlight of the week includes a visit to the White House where for most years, the American Legion Auxiliary Girls Nation senators have visited with the President of the United States. Learn More...


Famous American Legion Auxiliary Girls State Alumnae
Attendance at American Legion Auxiliary Girls State has served as an important step in the career paths of many well-known American women:

  • Janet Napolitano, Secretary of Homeland Security and former Governor of Arizona
  • Jane Pauley, NBC broadcast journalist
  • Brig. Gen. Michelle Johnson, first woman to serve as Wing Commander, U.S. Air Force
  • Ericka Dunlap, Miss America 2004 and reality star on "The Amazing Race"
  • Ann Richards, former Governor of Texas


 

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Quick Facts

  • Nearly 1 million girls have attended
  • 49 states sponsor the program
  • Two girls from each program are chosen to attend Girls Nation, held each July
  • Scholarships ensure girls attend at little or no expense
  • Attendees may be eligible for college scholarships


2011 Photo Gallery