(Seguin) — A historic week has just wrapped up at Texas Lutheran University, where more than 600 young women from across the state descended on campus for the largest Texas Bluebonnet Girls State gathering in the program’s history.
The weeklong event, held annually in June, has been hosted by TLU for 55 years. But this year’s milestone gathering marked a particularly significant moment—not only in numbers but in the spirit of civic engagement and leadership that echoed across every corner of campus.
What began in the 1940s with just over 90 participants has blossomed into one of the most respected civic education programs in the state. Founded by the American Legion and American Legion Auxiliary, Girls State gives high school juniors a deep dive into the workings of democratic government—by running one themselves.
Throughout the week, the delegates, all standout students nominated by their high schools, formed their own cities, counties, and state government. They campaigned, debated, passed legislation, and even elected a governor—all while learning firsthand what it means to be an informed, engaged citizen.
This experience was about more than a mock government. Organizers say it’s about empowering young women to find their voice and understand the responsibility that comes with it.
The program remains proudly non-partisan and focuses solely on the duties and privileges of American citizenship. At the end of the week, two participants were selected to represent Texas at Girls Nation in Washington, D.C. — a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take their leadership journey to the national stage.
To learn more about the program, visit Texas Girls State.