Staff

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Girls State is entirely staffed by volunteers.  We have approximately 45 dedicated individuals who come from all across the United States to join us each summer for this incredible experience.  All of our staff members are former Girls State participants and/or Auxiliary members.


The Girls State program is coordinated by three appointed Commissioners.  Each year the Commissioners are appointed by the American Legion Auxiliary Department President in June.  The Commission work with a Leadership Planning Committee to design, plan and lead the program session.

Girls State Commission
Sondra Lino, Director                   For Participant info            sondral@centurytel.net
Cherita Potter                                   For ALA info                          tcpotter@theoregonshore.com
Sarah Mariani                                  
For Staff info                          s.e.mariani@att.net 

Leadership Planning Committee
    • Sondra Lino, HQ - Commission
    • Sarah Mariani, HQ - Commission
    • Cherita Potter, HQ - Commission
    • Rebekah Horowitz, HQ - Government Coordinator
    • Kelly Harris, HQ – Alumni Association Chair
    • Sharon Mariani – Portland Area recruiting
    • Kristin Johnson – Speaker and Workshop Coordinator
    • Lauren Dillard – Recruiting and website
    • Kaeleen Hylton – Auxiliary promotion  

Want to Join the Staff?
Each year we select approximately 45 volunteers to staff the summer session. The application and selection process for Girls State staff is a multi-step process.  We typically have over 125 individuals who apply to be on staff, and we can only accept a limited number.

We have the following positions on staff:


  • Commissioners
  • Headquarters specialized positions
  • Cabinet Officers
  • County Coordinators
  • Government Leaders
  • Senior Counselors
  • Junior Counselors

Click here to learn about the application and selection process.


Meet the Girls State Staff

Meet the 2009 staff!

Just for staff 

If you have been selected to be on Staff for 2010, click here for information and forms.