Harborfields High School Juniors Chosen For Empire Girls State Program

GREENLAWN, NY — Two juniors from Harborfields High School have been selected to participate in the highly competitive American Legion Auxiliary Empire Girls State Program, a statewide leadership and civic education experience that accepts fewer than 400 students each year.

Christiana Ebe and Ava Fauvell were chosen by American Legion Greenlawn Post #1244 to represent Harborfields at the program, which brings together top high school students from across New York State for an immersive, weeklong exploration of government and public service. Ebe will attend as the citizen delegate, while Fauvell will serve as the alternate.

Empire Girls State is an educational program of the American Legion Auxiliary designed to give students a hands-on understanding of how government functions, emphasizing civic responsibility and leadership development.

The students were selected by local American Legion members with support from McGill and Harborfields High School teachers.

The program will take place from June 30 through July 6, 2026, on the campus of SUNY Brockport.

During the week, participants become citizens of a fictional 51st state, where they organize into political parties, run for office, debate legislation, and elect officials ranging from county leaders to governor. Students take part in caucuses, campaigns, and mock governmental proceedings designed to mirror real-world civic processes.

The Harborfields Central School District said it is proud to have Christiana Ebe and Ava Fauvell represent the community and hopes they will return with valuable insights into responsible citizenship and government that they can share with their peers.

“I am so incredibly proud of Christiana and Ava for being selected for Girls State, a program that recognizes young women for their leadership, academic commitment, and civic engagement,” said Kierstin McGill, the school counselor for both students. “This prestigious opportunity is well deserved for both Christiana and Ava, and it has been my absolute pleasure to work alongside them as they grow and evolve into strong leaders and advocates.”