This summer, for the first time in history, nine exceptional young women from Lake and Sumter counties represented their communities at the prestigious American Legion Auxiliary Girls State program. Held at Florida State University, this renowned leadership and citizenship program for rising high school seniors delves deep into the mechanics of American government and politics, fostering a new generation of informed and engaged citizens.

Exploring Government and Leadership

“The program is highly competitive, with attendees representing the top 300 senior girls from across the state get to go. This is a record breaking amount of Lake & Sumter County girls who attended.” says Leesburg senior Jeanelle Henderson. Participants take rigorous law and government classes, culminating in a modified version of the Bar Exam. The last three days are spent at the Florida Capitol, giving the delegates a hands-on experience in state governance.

Each delegate creates a bill, which undergoes a simulated legislative process, potentially reaching the governor’s desk. This year, the delegation from Lake and Sumter counties distinguished themselves not only through their legislative endeavors but also through their leadership roles and personal achievements.

Meet the Delegates

From left to right in the accompanying photo are Alexia McCray, Kayleigh Jackson, Reese Ponds, Megan Boliek, Gracie Goepfert, Emma Strickland, Peyton Ressler, Jeanelle Henderson, and Brianna Berger.

Jeanelle Henderson (Leesburg)

• Role: City/State Reporter
• Reflection: “My favorite part was meeting all the delegates from different backgrounds. We all have different lives, opinions, and aspirations, but we share a passion for being leaders in our communities. The knowledge I gained will be applied as I serve as Student Body President.”

Alexia McCray (Wildwood)

• Role: Chief of Police of Palatka
• Reflection: “My favorite part was making friends and learning about government processes. These skills will benefit me in college and my future career.”

Emma Strickland (Wildwood)

• Role: Senate Lobbyist, awarded Best Senate Lobbyist
• Reflection: “Making friends and learning about government were highlights. I learned not to give up when things don’t go my way.”

Reese Ponds (First Academy)

• Role: Mayor of Wakulla, Member of the House of Representatives, and Samsung Legion Scholarship recipient
• Reflection: “I loved making friends and learning about government. This experience has sparked an interest in potentially pursuing a political career.”

Gracie Goepfert (First Academy)

• Role: City Clerk, Senator
• Reflection: “Forming new friendships and visiting the Capitol while learning government procedures was invaluable. I’ll prioritize being knowledgeable about our government and use my communication skills in my community.”

Meghan Boliek (First Academy)

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• Role: City Commissioner, House Representative
• Reflection: “Visiting the Capitol and experiencing life as a House member was amazing. Girls State proved I can achieve anything I set my mind to.”

Brianna Berger (Mount Dora)

• Role: City Councilmember

Kayleigh Jackson (South Lake)

• Role: City Clerk, House Representative
• Reflection: “Visiting the Capitol was a highlight. I gained confidence in trusting myself and my choices.”

Peyton Ressler (Villages Charter)

• Role: City/State Reporter
• Reflection: “Being surrounded by intelligent and empowering young women was inspiring. I gained many new friends and learned extensively about our government.”

A Guiding Mentor

Returning for her third year, Vicky Scurti, a Leesburg alumna (Class of 2023), served as a City Advisor. Vicky attended Girls State as a delegate in 2022 and has since dedicated herself to mentoring new delegates.

“In 2022, I was the only student from Leesburg High School selected for Florida Girls State. The program changed my life, teaching me about citizenship, government operations, leadership, and networking. As a City Advisor, I aimed to make the process less stressful and more fun, focusing on building relationships over competition.”

Vicky’s dedication paid off when her city won the Most Spirited award, and one of her delegates was nominated as an alternate for Girls Nation. Jeanelle Henderson, a current delegate, shared, “Vicky has always been someone I looked up to. She calmed my nerves and supported me throughout the week, making this experience truly amazing.”

A Bright Future

These young women from Lake and Sumter counties have returned from Girls State with newfound knowledge, skills, and friendships. Their experiences will undoubtedly influence their future endeavors, both within their schools and in their broader communities. As they step into their roles as leaders, their journey at Girls State serves as a testament to their dedication and potential.