(GFWC) hosts Sophomore Pilgrimage

The General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) of Missouri sponsored more than 100 sophomore high school students from high schools throughout Missouri as a virtual event to the capital city to hear from elected state officials on April 13.

The pilgrimage is a statewide event to honor sophomore student ambassadors who were selected from their schools based on their scholarship, citizenship and leadership. We believe it is important to continue to recognize these outstanding sophomore students as they expand their skills in school programs, community involvement and family. The students heard remarks from Governor Mike Parson and other elected officials. They saw highlights of the Capital. Each student received a Certificate of Citizenship for their participation in the Pilgrimage.

Olivia Bryson

In 1934, Mrs. Mary Hinton Morris of the Women’s Club in Hannibal Missouri and first Sophomore Pilgrimage Chairman said, “The crying need of today is for more discreet, considerate, intelligent and loyal citizenship…the future of our state and nation lies in the hands of our children.”  Her dream was to foster responsible citizenship among our students.  The first annual sponsorship by GFWC clubs of outstanding sophomores from high schools all over the state of Missouri to observe the inner workings of state government, to tour government buildings and to listen to top state officials became a reality on March 5, 1935.

Ryan Griffin

Current GFWC MO President, Judy Gustafson, said “We are looking forward to seeing this year’s sophomore class of student ambassadors and hearing from state elected officials. This is the first time the event was held virtually and was recorded so others can view it at www.gfwcmo.org.”

The General Federation of Women’s Clubs are dedicated to strengthening communities and enhancing the lives of others through volunteer services.  They help create change by supporting the arts, preserving historical resources and advancing education through scholarships.  For more information see www.gfwcmo.org, follow us on Facebook at MissouriGFWC, or contact state President Judy Gustafson at 314-650-9348.