GFWC Hosts 86th Sophomore Pilgrimage

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Ava Williams (left) is pictured above with Donna Henderson, GFWC Woman’s Club of Shelbyville president. Photograph submitted

On April 13, more than 100 sophomore high school students from across the state attended a virtual event from Jefferson City sponsored by the General Federation of Women’s Clubs of Missouri. Held from 11 a.m. till noon, the event allowed students to hear from their elected state officials.

The pilgrimage is a statewide event to honor sophomore student ambassadors who are selected from their schools based on their scholarship, citizenship and leadership. Although the students missed the in-person experience this year, 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 GFWC Woman’s Club of Shelbyville sponsored Ava Williams from North Shelby High School.

The students heard remarks from Governor Mike Parson and other elected officials.  They also were given a virtual tour of the Capital building and received a Certificate of Citizenship for their participation in the Pilgrimage.

In 1934, Mrs. Mary Hinton Morris of the Women’s Club in Hannibal 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.

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 or contact our local club president Donna Henderson.