Shaping Tomorrow’s Leaders: The Impact of ALA Alaska Girls State
Contributed by Nina Ketelsen, ALA Alaska Girls State Director
Every summer, a group of Alaska’s most driven high school juniors gathers for a week that feels less like a camp and more like a revolution. The American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) Alaska Girls State is a non-partisan, hands-on immersion into the machinery of democracy.
From Students to Stateswomen:
The program operates on a unique “learning by doing” philosophy. Upon arrival, participants—known as “citizens”—are assigned to mock political parties and cities. Their task is to build a fictional state from the ground up. Within just a few days, these young women are campaigning for office from local city councils to the governorship, drafting legislation and debating bills on the floor, navigating the judicial system through mock trials, and collaborating with peers from diverse backgrounds.
Why It Matters for Alaska:
In a state as vast and unique as ours, leadership requires more than a loud voice; it requires the ability to listen, negotiate, and understand the nuances of governance. ALA Alaska Girls State provides a safe yet challenging environment for young women to find their voice. Participants have the opportunity to learn about civic engagement and how it impacts themselves and their communities.
Beyond the Week:
The impact does not end when the session closes. Participants leave with sharpened public speaking skills and a network of peers that spans the state and nation. Two “Senators” are selected to represent ALA Alaska Girls State at ALA Girls Nation in Washington, D.C.
The American Legion offers the prestigious Samsung Scholarship of up to $10,000. The state finalist is guaranteed a smaller scholarship of $1,250 and will go on to the national level to compete for up to $10,000. The American Legion Auxiliary is committed to ensuring that financial status is never a barrier to leadership. ALA Alaska Girls State is fully funded by the American Legion Auxiliary and its Units, meaning every student who applies can attend at no cost to her or her family.
How to Get Involved:
Eligibility is open to high school girls who have completed their junior year at the end of the 2025–2026 school year. Applications for the 2026 session are open through March 31. The program will take place June 1–6 at Alaska Healing Heart Camp in Sutton.
For more info on how to apply, visit alaskalegionauxiliary.org/girls-state or contact your local American Legion post.