Suffolk County Legislator Tom Donnelly recently joined with the Greenlawn American Legion Post #1244 to recognize students who completed the 2021 Boys and Girls State Government Delegates Program. Established in 1937, the highly selective week-long intensive program gives students an opportunity to learn about our government with an emphasis on the importance of civic awareness and community engagement.
Owen Connolly, Jordan Henkel, Kevin Rankel and Liam Villanti, students at Walt Whitman High School in Huntington Station who participated in the program, were honored by Legislator Donnelly at a special ceremony held at the Greenlawn Post on August 12. Kristy Chillemi and Alyssa Katwala, also of Walt Whitman High School and the 17th Legislative District, will be honored at a September program.
American Legion Sergeant at Arms Charlie Armstrong again served as Post Chairman of the program. Held virtually this year, Boys and Girls State delegates were offered “A Most Rewarding Experience” through the creation of a “Model State” government where they participated in mock legislative sessions, court proceedings, law enforcement, assemblies and other group activities.
“These students demonstrated an admirable commitment to democratic values and to developing the knowledge needed to become good American citizens,” Legislator Donnelly said. “They are well prepared to lead their generation into the future and I am proud to honor them.”