By: Landry Lehan

Named for the twenty-fifth president of the United States, the town of McKinley had formed an  unbreakable bond in the short time they had been acquainted. The expectation that respect is earned and not  given was set at the first interaction, and it is safe to say that mutual respect exists between each and every  citizen. Characterized by peaceful coexistence, sisterhood, and residence on floor seven of Sandoz Hall, the  citizens of McKinley exhibit extraordinary care and consideration for their fellow Girls State attendees.  Laughter could be heard ringing in the halls amid friendly conversation between girls that were strangers only days ago. 

The citizens of McKinley may come from different regions of Nebraska, but they are connected by their  desire to receive education about politics and their caring spirits. The citizens banded together to assist each other  in campaigning for their respective offices, and despite the stress placed upon each girl, the citizens of  McKinley were truly each other’s biggest supporters. From collaborative poster making to enthusiastic button  wearing, the residents of floor seven exemplify the true spirit of Girls State: putting each other first.