Girls State introduces high school students to the workings of local, county and state government through an immersive, participant-led program. Delegates campaign for office, speak publicly, organize elections, develop legislation and take part in civic-leadership activities.
Keogh, now a senior at Cranford High School, was elected mayor of Antony, one of the convention’s city sections. Kilmer, a student at Arthur L. Johnson High School in Clark, was elected city councilwoman. Both students earned their roles through mock-election campaigns requiring them to build support, articulate goals and persuade fellow delegates.
Unit 328 noted that both delegates demonstrated leadership and civic engagement during the program, which brought together approximately 200 young women from around New Jersey. The auxiliary sponsors students’ participation in Girls State to give young people a firsthand understanding of government and civic responsibility.