Staunton Kiwanis Club hosts its 36th Annual Model General Assembly

by Michael Roman

In 1976 the Staunton Kiwanis Club sponsored their first Model General Assembly (MGA). This is one of the clubs 'signature' programs (their other signature program is their Youth Baseball Program) which gives the juniors and seniors of the local area high school an opportunity to learn about state governance by actually participating in a model general assembly following the guidelines of the state of Virginia. There are approximately 165 students participating in this program every year.

They elect their 'state officers' (Governor, Lt. Governor, Attorney General, etc.) as well as the 'state Senators and Delegates.' Bills are introduced, debated and voted on. The assembly is held over a period of two days. At the conclusion of the session students are afforded the opportunity to travel to Richmond and meet the members of the Virginia State assembly, including the Governor, Lt. Governor and Attorney General.

Staunton Kiwanians: President Priscilla Stanley, Michael Roman, Secretary Lucinda Cooke,
Donald Whiteman.

Youth Governor Jordan Driskill gives his opening remarks to the assembly.

Youth Delegates, Senators and Pages preparing for the opening of the assembly.