The American Legion Boys and Girls State programs offer a fantastic opportunity
for young people to learn about civic engagement and leadership. To select the most
qualified candidates for these programs, American Legion Post 295 conducted interviews
with high school students from several local schools. Both programs will run from Sunday,
June 16 to Saturday, June 22, 2024, with the Virginia Girls State program held at Longwood
University and the Virginia Boys State at Radford University.
This year, Post 295 received a record number of over 60 applications from six local area
high schools. Ultimately, twenty-one students were accepted from Lightridge, Pope John
Paul VI, Freedom, Wakefield, Fresta Valley Christian, and Flint Hill High Schools, including
fourteen boys and seven girls. These students demonstrated exceptional leadership
potential, academic achievement, and a strong commitment to their communities.
The rigorous interview process was designed to identify those students who would benefit
most from participation in the Boys and Girls State programs. Conducted by a panel of
experienced American Legion members, the interviews included questions that tested the
students’ knowledge of government, public service, and leadership.
Post 295 is proud to have selected such an outstanding group of young people for the
Boys and Girls State programs. We believe these programs will provide them with valuable
experiences and skills that will serve them well throughout their lives. We extend our
heartfelt congratulations to the students accepted into the program and look forward to
seeing the great things they will achieve in the future. We also thank all the educators,
parents, and sponsors who encouraged them to pursue opportunities to serve their
communities.