Pictures from the 2009 session at Willamette University in Salem
Why Girls Love Girls State
"Girls State was so much more than I expected...I learned a lot! It's an amazing experience that every young woman should have!" --Sarah Bye, 207 Supreme Court Justice
"Girls State gave me the ability to completely appreciate myself as well as the beliefs and lifestyles of others." --Natasha Holmstrom, 2005 Citizen
"I know I will always hold Girls State dear to my heart."--Asia Rikard, Staff Member and 2007 Citizen
"Without Girls State, my life would be completely different. I might never have met some of the people who I consider my dearest friends and probably wouldn't believe in myself as much as I do today."--Kelly Harris, Staff Member and 2000 Citizen
"Girls State changes lives and dreams. It makes you want to come back over and over again just so you can continue to join in on all of the fun and excitement."--Emily Sevy, 2007 Citizen
"At Girls State, I was given the opportunity to define myself. In small towns and small communities, you are pre-defined. Oregon Girls State has the ability to break down those definitions and those barriers."
"I was inspired, confident and proud. I felt accepted, loved and understood by those around me. Girls State did that. The women who are involved in this program did that."
Both quotes by Lauren Dillard, Staff Member and 2004 Citizen