By CLAIRE SANT
BGSU Student Contributor
Young women from all over Ohio joined at the 78th annual session of Buckeye Girls State, hosted at Bowling Green State University.
The young women chosen as delegates spend a week on campus, learning the duties, privileges, rights and responsibilities of good citizenship, according to the BGS website. Female students apply through the American Legion website where a select group is then chosen to participate through an application and interview process.
BGS delegates campaign for positions within a mock government, where constituents elect them. They then fulfill their duties for the remainder of their jam-packed week.
While being elected as governor was a highlight of the day for Emelina Pappalardo, she said she ranked the friendships gained higher than anything else. “The greatest thing was meeting everybody,” she said. “They’re all so intelligent and kind. I just felt so welcomed.”
The uproar of applause as the winners were announced represented unwavering support from their fellow girls.
Carys Ruck, participant of BGS, from Wood County, seconded the view that it’s a conducive environment. “It unites us to work together and make connections,” she said. “People of all different backgrounds can come together and make something happen.”
The positions delegated during the government celebration include chief justice, auditor of state, treasurer of state, attorney general, secretary of state, lieutenant governor and governor.
Members of the American Legion Department of Ohio were present, sharing memories from their past experiences in Buckeye Girls and Boys State programs.
Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose empowered thedelegates in their endeavors. He shared a story of inspiration from his first day as a soldier, where he stepped up to take charge and said without leadership, there is chaos.
“Ohio and America need women who are willing to step up and lead,” said LaRose. “We need women like you.”
A veteran of the armed forces, LaRose gave some insightful advice while speaking from the stage. “Leadership is not about elevating yourself above others,” said LaRose. “It’s a humbling act of service to help a group of people accomplish more together than they could by themselves.”
The delegates will stay in session until Saturday, June 15. More information about the program can be found at www.buckeyegirlsstate.org.
