Governor Patrick Morrisey took the stage at Davis & Elkins College on Sunday to speak to over 200 bright young women attending the 82nd annual American Legion Auxiliary West Virginia Rhododendron Girls State.
The event, held at the Myles Center for the Arts, welcomed soon-to-be high school seniors from across the state for a week of civic learning, leadership training, and community building.
This marks the seventh straight year Morrisey has addressed the Girls State gathering—a tradition he says is one of the most rewarding parts of his year.
“I was very happy to go,” Morrisey said the next day. “Honestly, I get inspired every time I talk to these kids and listen to what they have to say.”
A Message of Opportunity and Responsibility
In his speech, Morrisey encouraged the students to dream big—but also to see West Virginia as a place where those dreams can come true. He spoke about the state’s future, the importance of staying engaged, and how to navigate life with purpose and success.
He also took time to answer their questions, many of which touched on his current work as governor.
“They asked incredible, thoughtful questions,” he said. “It’s no surprise—they represent some of the best and brightest in the state. Every year, these young women show their intelligence, curiosity, and passion. It’s always a joy to engage with them.”
Morrisey emphasized that events like Girls State and Boys State aren’t just fun traditions. To him, they’re essential to building a better future.
“We face real challenges in West Virginia,” he said. “But by working together and being honest about those challenges, we can overcome them. That’s how we keep our best and brightest here and bring new people in.”
The Role of Youth in West Virginia’s Future
Morrisey said one of his most important responsibilities as governor is to advocate for the youth of West Virginia, calling them “our future.”
Each year, he asks Girls State and Boys State attendees whether they plan to attend college—most hands go up. But when he asks if they think they’ll find good job opportunities in West Virginia after college, the number drops significantly.
“That’s a problem,” Morrisey said. “We won’t truly succeed as a state until more of our young people believe they have a future here. I believe they do—but we need to show them that, clearly and convincingly.”
He called on the attendees to become part of the state’s “comeback story,” a new chapter where West Virginia becomes known for opportunity, innovation, and growth.
A Star-Studded Week at Girls State
Girls State attendees will hear from a host of other prominent leaders and change-makers throughout the week. Among them:
- U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito
- Secretary of State Kris Warner
- State Treasurer Larry Pack
- Attorney General JB McCuskey
- Retired Fire Chief Jan Rader
- Warrior Project Pearl Founder Jay Trickett
- WV First Foundation Executive Director Jonathan Board
- Old Brick Playhouse Executive Director Missy Armentrout McCollam
Later this week, Morrisey will also address the American Legion Mountaineer Boys State at Jackson’s Mill in Weston—an event he considers equally important in shaping the next generation of leaders.
“These young people are not only the future of West Virginia—they’re the ones who can help change it for the better, right now,” Morrisey said. “And I can’t wait to see what they accomplish.”
