Five CCC students spent part of their summer developing leadership skills, exploring public service, and experiencing government in action as delegates to Florida Girls State 2026, one of the nation's premier leadership and citizenship programs for rising high school seniors.
Representing Clearwater Central Catholic this year were Julia Neal, Maeve Lynch, Isa Belongie, Olivia Jones, and Mackenzie Capco, who joined hundreds of outstanding young women from across Florida for an immersive week-long experience focused on leadership, civic engagement, and the democratic process. Sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary, Girls State has been helping develop future leaders since 1937 and provides students with a hands-on opportunity to learn how local and state government functions through elections, campaigns, legislative sessions, and leadership roles. Participants are selected based on their leadership potential, academic achievement, character, and involvement in their schools and communities.
Rather than simply learning about government in a classroom setting, delegates spend the week actively participating in it. Students campaign for office, hold elections, draft and debate legislation, serve in judicial and executive positions, and collaborate with peers from around the state to operate a fully functioning mock government. The program is designed to cultivate leadership, strengthen civic understanding, and inspire participants to become engaged citizens and future leaders in their communities.
Among the many accomplishments achieved by CCC's delegates, Julia Neal earned election to the Florida Girls State Supreme Court, a significant honor that reflects both her leadership abilities and the confidence placed in her by her fellow delegates.
Girls State has long been recognized as one of the most respected leadership programs available to high school students, and we are incredibly proud of Isa, Mackenzie, Julia, Maeve, and Olivia for representing CCC with excellence. Their participation reflects the spirit of leadership, service, and civic responsibility that we strive to cultivate in all Marauders.
Congratulations to these outstanding young women on an unforgettable week and an impressive achievement!