American Legion Auxiliary Delaware Girls State
2025 Session: June 15-20
Goldey-Beacom College Campus - Wilmington, Delaware
American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Delaware Girls State is a government immersion program designed to teach our youth about their roles in and potential contribution to society. Based on the United States Constitution, the program's goal is to provide our youth with the tools to change their world for the better, as well as the opportunity to practice engaged citizenship. Sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary, this premier program has been offered to Delaware students since 1942 and has been held annually since then. This program epitomizes the ALA’s mission to honor through our enduring commitment those who have brought us our freedom; and to develop youth as future leaders, grounded in patriotism and Americanism. Our students will learn the democratic process and how our republic form of government works at the city, county and state levels.
OUR PROGRAM
Mission Statement
In the spirit of Service, Not Self, the mission of the American Legion Auxiliary is to support The American Legion and to honor the sacrifice of those who serve by enhancing the lives of our veterans, military, and their families, both at home and abroad. For God and Country, we advocate for veterans, educate our citizens, mentor youth, and promote patriotism, good citizenship, peace and security.
Vision Statement
The vision of the American Legion Auxiliary is to support The American Legion while becoming the premier service organization and foundation of every community providing support for our veterans, our military, and their families by shaping a positive future in an atmosphere of fellowship, patriotism, peace and security.
Program Description
Female high school students, who have completed their junior year, are selected and sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary, are given the opportunity to learn political policies based on the United States Constitution. They are given the opportunity to establish a mock state, including elements from all three government branches, including running for and holding offices.
The American Legion Auxiliary, Department of Delaware Girls State Program is a non-partisan participatory program
Activities During Session
CREATION OF A MOCK STATE
You will create a mock state which will include the election of government officials, creation of political parties, and a complete system of laws.
MEET THE GOVERNOR
You will meet and spend time with the Delaware Governor.
LEGISLATION
You will create your own laws within your mock state using the legislative process.
COMMUNITY TOURS
You will travel up and down the state visiting Delaware sites.
PROGRAM LEADERSHIP
LISA McCARLEY
Director
LAUREN BAILES
Counselor
JEN HAVEL
Assistant Director
RAYNELL CROOK
Counselor
JOHNSENIA BROOKS
Counselor
SUZANNE LABERGE
Counselor