For a third consecutive summer, Lindenwood University will host the American Legion Auxiliary Missouri Girls State and American Legion Boys State of Missouri. These youth leadership programs recognize talented high school students from across the state and provide hands-on learning opportunities.
Student attendees, known as citizens, will spend a week living and learning on the Lindenwood campus. Citizens will participate in educational activities and hear from a series of guest speakers including Sarah Hurwitz, speechwriter to former First Lady Michelle Obama, Missouri State Senators John Rizzo and Caleb Rowden, and former RNC Chair Michael Steele.
“Lindenwood takes great pride in welcoming exceptionally talented students to our campus through these highly selective programs, where they are poised to make a positive impact on the world,” President Dr. John R. Porter said. “Our world needs future leaders who are prepared to improve the communities they serve.”
Citizens will establish their own working government, through practical programs focused on the importance of citizen rights and responsibilities. Using real world simulations, citizens will gain real experience in public service and democratic forms of government. The week on campus will reflect Lindenwood’s values-centered approach to education, reinforced the group’s focus on learn-by-doing.
Missouri Boys State and Missouri Girls State are among the few youth leadership programs that continue to be free for high-school juniors. Funding for the programs comes from school districts, private businesses, American Legion Posts, American Legion Auxiliary units, and service clubs across the state.
“Partnerships like this one are critical to our university as we continue to work with mission centric organizations who share our values,” Vice President for Advancement and Community Engagement Orrie Covert said. “We look forward to welcoming these outstanding individuals for this incredible week.”
Lindenwood looks forward to welcoming these excellent students and top-notch youth leadership programs to its historic St. Charles campus this summer.
