June 2015

By Elyse Helkenn Among the Girls State traditions lies the talent show. Girls showed off their talents Wednesday night with everything, ranging from a hypnotist to a rapper. Throughout the week there have been three auditions, with two held Tuesday and one held Wednesday. Girls lined up to get into their auditions and waited in […]

By Mikaela Neubauer At the very start of the day at Girls State one can be sure to see a curly brunette head bobbing animatedly above the sleepy and sluggish delegates, poised to begin the day with role call. Lizzie Spier, the Girls State governor of 2014, is our well-rounded leader with a sunny disposition. […]

By Morgan Fischer Patriotism plays an important role in the experience of Girls State. “It is important for all Americans to know where our country’s patriotism comes from, and why our country is built on that strong patriotism,” said Jordan Bremer, a 2015 University of South Dakota Graduate. After being offered a scholarship to attend […]

By Molly Graesser Tuesday evening Dr. Lynita Newswander offered a leadership class in Beacom Hall about the importance of women in successful leadership roles. Those who attended will receive one credit hour of college credits. “I believe in women and empowering women,” Newswander said. Newswander has a Ph.D. in planning, governance and globalization. She teaches […]

By Madison Rost On Tuesday afternoon, all Girls State participants chose between a class that taught information on law and court procedures or law enforcement. Following the class, the girls took either the bar exam or the law enforcement exam. Sandy McKeown, an associate professor, taught the class on law and court procedures and Col. […]

By Brianna Schreurs On Monday, the first general assembly of the week took place. Emily Firman Pieper, 1994 South Dakota Girls State governor, spoke excitedly to motivate the audience to make the most of the week. “Everyone seems to smile more when Emily is here,” governor Lizzie Spier commented as she introduced Emily. Peiper’s speech […]

By Kate Finley Girls State delegates received a self-defense lesson during the general assembly on Tuesday, June 2 presented by Chief Warrant Officer of the South Dakota Army National Guard, Shane Toupal. Throughout their time at Girls State, delegates are given many opportunities to have life-changing experiences, with one being the live self-defense class. “I […]

By Jordann Krouse South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley kicked off South Dakota Girls State 2015 in Aalf’s Auditorium Tuesday at the second general assembly. A Boys State delegate himself, Mr. Jackley began his speech by reminiscing about his past experiences. He stressed the importance of the relationships formed at Boys State and how they […]