Five prepare to attend Boys State, Girls State

Five rising seniors from LSMSA will attend Boys State and Girls State June 25-July 1 on the campus of Northwestern State University.

The students are Jake Stultz, Russ Stultz and Bryce Moulton, all of Natchitoches, and Olivia Gotte of Iota and Ariana Yelverton of Rayville.

“Girls State is something I have looked forward to since my freshman year,” said Gotte. “I am excited to run for ‘offices’ and learn more about politics and experience what it is like to work with others on political affairs.”

Russ Stultz realizes that Boys State is a great opportunity to see how government runs.

“I hope to learn if I would be interested in a future career in politics or government,” he said. “I am looking forward to seeing and meeting people from around the state.”

Boys State is the premier leadership development program for young men in the state of Louisiana. Sponsored by the Louisiana Department of the American Legion, Boys State is dedicated to providing a hands-on learning environment in which participants not only learn the ins and outs of the Louisiana political system but also learn how to transform themselves into effective leaders in their school, community, state and country.

The goals of Girls State are to develop leadership and pride in American citizens, educate delegates about the system of government, instill in delegates a greater understanding of American traditions and stimulate a desire to maintain the democratic government process.

Girls State delegates are sponsored through local American Legion Auxiliary Units and Posts of the American Legion and through contributions provided by private benefactors and/or businesses.