By Margaret Barnett, Sacajawea Scroll S.D. Public Utilities Commissioner Kristie Fiegen was excited to finally be at Girls State Wednesday morning and shared that excitement in an interactive presentation. Having been an alternate in high school, Fiegen didn’t have the opportunity until now to express her desire at the American Legion Auxiliary program to encourage young girls […]

By Rebekah Bahn, Sacajawea Scroll An awed hush fell across the room Wednesday night as a girl perched upon the grand piano, took a deep breath and began to sing. Her music flowed across the audience in Aalfs Auditorium like a soft wave coming across the shore. All eyes were riveted to the fearless performer, Jeanna […]

By Rebekah Bahn, Sacajawea Scroll When asked to give advice for the 2018 election candidates, Ruhama Tereda, the current American Legion Auxiliary Girls State Governor replied with these words of wisdom: Be yourself. “This week is as fun as you make it,” she replied with a smile. “People will feed off your energy and enthusiasm.” Just […]

By Jasmine Snow, Sacajawea Scroll I don’t remember the first time I felt unsafe or threatened as a woman. Let me rephrase that: I don’t remember the first time I have felt unsafe or threatened because I am a woman. Granted, this could have something to do with the ingrained sense of danger women are […]

By Talliah Pilker, Sacajawea Scroll Who are you? Who is the girl standing beside you? These aren’t easy questions to answer, because not everyone knows their true selves yet. That’s because they haven’t found what makes them special, their individuality or their gifts, according to Michael Roche, criminal justice professor at USD. Roche spoke to Girls State […]

By Addy Nelson, Sacajawea Scroll Girls State delegates entered Aalfs Auditorium Slagle Hall nervous but excited Monday night, anticipating the coming days. Emily Firman Pieper was one speaker that night with advice. In her speech, the 1994 Girls State governor compared two songs: “Breakaway” by Kelly Clarkson and “This Is Me” from the movie “The Greatest […]

By Kailey Jacobsen, Sacajawea Scroll Women are often faced with dangerous situations such as rape, assault and theft.  Self-defense can be a useful skill as powerful women in society. Shane Toupal emphasized Tuesday night at the general assembly in Aalf Auditorium Slagle Hall. Starting off with a few jokes, Toupal quickly grabbed the delegates’ attention. Toupal has […]

By Morgan Roberts, Sacajawea Scroll South Dakota Girls State has come a long way from its beginning in Mitchell, S.D. The program has been held on the University of South Dakota campus for the last 17 years. With a turnout of more than 300 girls, it shows an incredible drive among young women to participate in […]