What is Girls State?
Illinois Girls State is an immersive educational exercise focused on citizenship and government, organized and sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary. Each year about 400 high school juniors attend the weeklong event at Eastern Illinois University, Charleston, IL. Assigned to one of two (fictional) political parties, they assume a full variety of roles modeled on the State of Illinois’ government structure, campaigning for county and state office and championing legislation. Girls reside in campus dorms.
Who is eligible?
Girls must be legal residents of the United States, applying during their junior year of high school. Sponsorship by our Post 264 Auxiliary also requires that the applicant be a resident of Lake Forest or Lake Bluff.
Selection of attendees is based on interest in government and current affairs, leadership potential, character, and academic achievement. There is no requirement to be associated with the American Legion, the Legion Auxiliary, or be the daughter of a veteran.
How do I apply?
Interested girls should contact the Post 264 Auxiliary liaison, Ms. Dorothy Thomas, at auxiliary@americanlegionlakeforest.org, or Mrs. Gleason at the LFHS college resource office. Applicants will be requested to submit a short essay on Americanism or why they would like to attend Girls State (typically due in February).
Helpful links:
American Legion Auxiliary (national organization) Girls State web site