Savannah McCulley, who will be a senior this fall at Great Bend High School, recently returned from attending the prestigious American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Sunflower Girls State. Savannah was among a select group of young women from across Kansas chosen to attend the week-long leadership conference, which ran from May 31 through June 5 at the University of Kansas in Lawrence.

During the events, delegates engaged in a mock government and campaign process to learn about local, county and state civic operations. Attendees formed two mock political parties, drafted legislative proposals and build essential civic leadership skills.

Savannah ran for sheriff of her county and won the primary election but didn’t win the general election, so she was appointed library director.

“Participating in Girls State was a fantastic opportunity to see our government in action,” she said. “Gaining hands-on leadership experience and meeting other driven students from all over the state was something I will never forget.”

To qualify for the honor of attending Girls State, delegates are evaluated based on their leadership abilities, interest in government, character, and scholastic achievements. Savannah’s attendance at the conference was proudly sponsored by Argonne American Legion Unit 180-Great Bend.

The program is organized by the American Legion Auxiliary, which has been guiding and empowering young students for over 85 years. For more information about the ALA Sunflower Girls State, visit ksgirlsstate.org.