Building confidence and civic pride: Sophia takes on Missouri Girls State

Katie Stalter

August 12, 2026

Incoming Miriam senior Sophia stepped outside her comfort zone this summer, taking a leap toward self-advocacy and civic leadership with 700 other young women at Missouri Girls State.

Three Miriam students sitting together in the gym.

Just being selected to apply was meaningful. “It recognized the qualities in Sophia that others saw in her, even when she didn’t always see them herself,” said Graca, Sophia’s mom.

Run by the American Legion Auxiliary and hosted at Lindenwood University, Missouri Girls State provides immersive experiences in civic engagement and public service. The program equips rising seniors across the state with real-world skills in public speaking, problem-solving and governance.

Like many new experiences, her week at Girls State was challenging. She had to push herself to advocate for her needs, but ended up successfully navigating the program.

“Sophia came home having proven to herself and to us that she could adapt to a completely new environment, make connections and persevere,” Graca said. “It was a wonderful confidence-building opportunity, and I am very proud of her.”

Miriam High School sponsored Sophia for the experience. “She is a bright, capable student who was ready to step into new leadership and social opportunities,” said Principal Vicki Thurman.

Showcase of Missouri Girls State in action

“Programs like Girls State provide a supportive, dynamic space where Sophia could benefit from shared learning and collaboration with girls outside of her small high school. We look forward to seeing where her leadership takes her next!”

Sophia said in a letter from Missouri Girls State that she was very thankful for the opportunity to participate in the program. She attended an international affairs class and sat on the tourism commission, and she said she was enjoying the guest speakers.

“They’ve all had good lessons and takeaways to implement in the future, like ‘the greatest thing you can do in life is just to show up.’ Which is something I usually try to do, but it’s cool knowing that someone successful does the same,” Sophia said.

Sophia’s willingness to take on such a large environment is a testament to her journey at Miriam, which began in eighth grade when she needed more support during the school day. Over the years, she and her family routinely evaluated high school options to ensure she was in the right setting - and each time, they chose to stay.

Two Miriam students in climbing gear sitting next to each other.

“No other school offers the same level of understanding and support for who Sophia is as a learner,” Graca said. “Miriam has helped Sophia grow academically while also giving her the tools to better understand herself.”

Graca’s favorite thing about Miriam is that students are truly understood. “Miriam creates an environment where students feel accepted, supported and valued,” she said.

“As a parent, there is tremendous comfort in knowing your child is in a place where people genuinely care about their success - not only academically, but emotionally and socially as well.”

Sophia has learned strategies for organization, self-awareness and navigating social situations that will serve her well beyond high school. Miriam students are encouraged to learn to advocate for themselves, build confidence and prepare for life after high school. Sophia used these skills at Missouri Girls State, and she’ll continue to use them as she explores next steps after high school graduation.

“For our family, Miriam has been much more than a school,” Graca said. “It has been a community that has helped Sophia grow into the young woman she is becoming.”

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