The Badger Boys State and Badger Girls State is a leadership program for high school juniors to engage in civic opportunities in Wisconsin. The week-long program is sponsored by the American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary, giving selective students hands-on experience creating and running a mock state government. Participants, known as “citizens,” form political parties, run for office, pass laws, and engage in debates, all while gaining teamwork and decision-making skills.
Guest speakers often include former governors of Wisconsin, attorney generals, and military officials.
This program is well-respected by colleges military academies and trades. The 2025 American Legion Badger Boys State program is scheduled for June 8th-14th at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, while the American Legion Auxiliary Badger Girls State is set to take place June 15th-20th at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. This year’s five delegates to represent Stoughton High School include Gabe Wienkes, Theodore Chose, Max Nelson, Ainsley Gerard and Addison Liddicoat.
SHS counselor Ann Ash has taken part in running the Stoughton Badger Girls and Boys program.
“My son attended Badger Boy State when he was in high school, so I got to see that experience through him, and he really enjoyed it,” Ash said. “I think it’s a great opportunity since it has been around since I’ve been in high school and it’s always been an honor to be nominated.”
Ash also believes it’s a good experience for rising seniors to test out what it’s like to be away from home and live in a college environment.
“It’s important to go in with an open mind, try to enjoy the experience, and learn as much as you can,” Ash said.
The 2024 Badger Girls Program was presented by now-seniors Brianna Woelke and Emma Flint.
“My favorite part was meeting everyone. I got to meet girls from all over the state who have so many different experiences than me. I enjoyed hearing their stories,” Flint said.
Totaling around 900 young leaders across each campus, creating relationships was just as big as running for the elections. Flint ran for city elections and became a sergeant of arms. “The lesson I take away from this experience is it’s important to either be politically involved or have an understanding of how the government works,” Flint said.
While public speaking in large groups such as campaigning for office, debating policies, and making decisions, can seem intimidating at first, it remains a crucial skill for those entering leadership roles.
“Some of my favorite moments and memories were getting to jump out of my comfort zone and run for office on the federal level, which entailed getting signatures, planning a speech, and then having to answer questions without prior knowledge in front of around 500 other girls,” Woelke said.
