U.S. Sen. Capito, of West Virginia, visits American Legion's Girls and Boys States

WESTON W.Va. (WV News) — U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito on Monday visited American Legion Auxiliary Rhododendron Girls State at Davis & Elkins College in Elkins and American Legion Mountaineer Boys State at Jackson’s Mill near Weston.

Girls State and Boys State are week-long camps where high school students become “citizens” in a mock society, taking various roles in political, legal and other career paths and learning about Americanism, citizenship and politics.

The camps also teach students about the election process, allowing them to run for office, campaign and give speeches before voting takes place.

“I try to come every year because I think it’s important for young people to meet and see their leaders, and it’s important for me to hear what’s on their minds,” Capito said. “These are the new leaders of West Virginia. We know that we need to attract and keep more of our young people, and so I want to be a part of that effort.

“They do such a great job with talking about elections and governance, patriotism, leadership and all of the things we want our next generation to care about.”

Capito gave a speech at both camps, focusing on the importance of public service and giving encouragement to students who are thinking of taking that career path.

Her speech continues a tradition started by her father, former Gov. Arch Moore Jr.

“Every time I come to Girls State and Boys State, I’m reminded of the great future ahead for our state with the bright young women and men engaged and interested in public service,” Capito said. “The next generation of leaders are right here in Elkins and Weston today, learning skills and lessons that will prepare each well for the future.

“The American Legion continues to do an impressive job of promoting the values of patriotism, leadership and collaboration among the young West Virginians who participate. It was truly an honor, as always, to speak at both Rhododendron Girls State and Mountaineer Boys State today and meet the participants.”

Girls State and Boys State participants are juniors from high schools across West Virginia who are recommended by their teachers based on leadership skills, academic prowess, cooperativeness, character and a general interest for politics.