Teryn Elder, daughter of Keith and Renee Elder, and a member of the 2009 Junior Class at Rising Sun High School is selected “Girls State Delegate” sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary Post 59 in Rising Sun. Ms. Elder will participate in the 67^th Annual Hoosier Girls State Program at Indiana State University in Terre Haute, Indiana from June 21st-27th.

Girls are eligible to attend Girls State if they meet the following criteria:

· Completed Junior year in high school

· Interested in government and current events

· Have high moral character

· Have strong leadership abilities

· Have an above average scholastic standing

Girls State delegates are a diverse group of women who share a common desire to learn.  From small towns to urban area, the delegates’ varying backgrounds add spirit to the program. Delegates to the Girls State program are selected by American Legion Auxiliary Units working with local high school educators who assist in evaluating potential leadership qualities of the delegates. The program is funded by the American Legion Auxiliary, with some additional support coming from other civic and non-profit organizations.

Girls State offers training in the practical processes of self government and good citizenship as practiced in a democratic society. Each summer, approximately 20,000 enthusiastic young women participate in Girls State sessions across the nation.  At Girls State, the “citizens” study local, county, state government processes.  They do this by setting up their own miniature city, county and state governments and administer them according to the laws of their particular state. The program is funded by the American Legion Auxiliary, with some additional support coming from other civic and non-profit organizations.

The American Legion Auxiliary believes that educating youth about the basic ideals and principles of government will help to ensure the survival of democracy.  Girl State is a unique citizenship training program in which Auxiliary members guide the youth of our nation toward an understanding, comprehension and appreciation of their roles as United States citizens.

The local American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary Unit sponsor a delegate each year.  Last year’s Hoosier Girls State Delegate was 2009 RSHS graduating senior Jaclyn Armbruster. Last year’s Hoosier Boys State Delegate was 2009 RSHS graduating senior Korey Gipson.