By Elizabeth B. Christian, LC News
PINEVILE, La. (LBM) — Louisiana College will host the Boys & Girls Club’s Youth Legislature on campus March 10 in Granberry Student Center.
More than 50 middle-schoolers from north and central Louisiana will be on campus between 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. participating in this annual mock legislative session.
“I’m excited about being on Louisiana College campus for the first time,” said Paula Braud, Youth Legislature program director.
COVID-19 restrictions prevented the event from being held in its normal location, the Old State Capitol in downtown Baton Rouge.
“Thanks to State Sen. Glen Womack, State Rep. Mike Johnson and President Rick Brewer,” Braud added, “we were able to bring some of the middle school students from north and central Louisiana together for this mock legislative session.”
Brewer is excited to have these future Louisiana leaders on campus.
“Hosting future leaders at Louisiana College is consistent with the equipping of future leaders that takes place here daily,” Brewer said. “The mission of Louisiana College compels us to prepare students for “lives of learning, leading, and serving,” which certainly aligns with the focus of the Youth Legislature. “
Braud said the students will elect a governor, speaker and president. Legislators will present and debate the passage of bills. The press corps and photojournalist will document the proceeding and event will conclude with a closing statement from the elected governor. This will be followed by a bill signing and awards ceremony.
“These students leave the program having learned the legislative process,” Braud said. “They have increased their self-confidence, public speaking and leadership skills while learning how democracy works and know that they have the knowledge, skills and the power to make a difference. ”
