MGA and its Magnificence


By: Rosalind Coolidge

In the Opening Session for the 70th annual Model General Assembly, Mark Johnston, the Youth Governor, inspired Assembly participants as he welcomed them to the “awesome program” about to unfold, stressing that the gathering was about much more than just enacting a bill into law. Governor Johnston said that through this opportunity he has learned much about the political process, but has also made new friends.  In his speech, Johnston explained that this learning process can “make them [the students] feel like they can make a difference in the world,” and that's what the Governor intends to do in his term and as he advances in his future.
Regent University Sophomore, Stacey Reibold, an alumna of MGA, said her involvement with this program “taught leadership even though people look down on our generation and think that they are immature and that they don’t really know what they are doing. MGA gives you that voice you want to present to adults.” Both Governor Johnston and Reibold stress the importance of youth empowerment, what it has meant to them and how it has shaped them as leaders. Both said the experience has changed their perspective and made them stronger individuals, capable of more than they ever thought possible.

Another MGA officer, Attorney General Zach Lingle, agreed with both Governor Johnston and Reibold, saying he has the “desire to be here” and that his leadership position “feels good” because of the dedication and hard work required for him to get to this point. From his experience, he has learned how to appreciate different perspectives, how to compromise within his group, and the importance of humility. Overall, the general response to MGA has been positive and has opened doors to possible careers, given youth a voice, and shaped leaders in our Commonwealth. In Attorney General Lingle’s words, one must “consider all facets of life,” encompassing what MGA is all about. MGA requires hard-work, perseverance, commitment and the desire to learn. In Reibold’s words, MGA is a “long process, but it’s all worth it in the end.”

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