The 2021 American Legion Auxiliary Missouri Girls State is being held on the campus of the University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg this week, June 20-26. Alexis Oakley, a senior from Fayette High School, is attending.

The 2020 Missouri Girls State was not held due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Ms. Oakley was among delegates selected for 2020 and limited space this year meant that spots for new delegates were not available. 

Missouri Girls State was established in 1940 at William Woods College (now University) in Fulton, Mo. It is an intensive week of government study and training, in which participants live together as self-governing citizens in a hands-on experience. Attendees are divided into mock political parties, and elections are held to fill city, county and state positions. 

To be eligible for Missouri Girls State, a participant must have high moral character, scholastic and leadership ability, display good sportsmanship, and be interested in government and current events. She must also be willing to show respect for the U.S. flag. 

Oakley graduated from Fayette high school in May and plans to attend the University of Missouri. She hopes to one day teach at the college level. 

Fayette High School counselor Tiffany Swanson assisted Oakley in the application process, and Fayette Rotary Club sponsored Oakley’s attendance fees.