Madam President Camp: Empowering Young Women in St. Joseph
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- This week marks the beginning of the annual Madam President Camp here in St. Joseph.
The camp offers middle school girls the opportunity to discover themselves and learn how to become authentic, powerful leaders in their lives.
Madam President Camp has been held at Missouri Western State University for the past three years, receiving nothing but success and positive feedback from participants and the community.
From July 14–16, middle school girls from St. Joseph can participate in hands-on activities, hear from guest speakers and take part in team-building projects.
The camp runs for seven hours each day and prioritizes building confidence, engagement, communication skills, activism, self-discovery and public speaking.
Volunteer Katy Schwartz Drowns shared the camp leaders' and organizers' hope in hosting this camp.
"We hope that these are ladies take what they're learning here at Madam President Camp and live it out. Whether that be in their home or in their families, in their role, in their careers," said Schwartz Drowns. "Especially as they go into high school and college.”
Some of the hands-on activities include goal setting, mock campaigns and civic projects, such as starting a business or running for student council.
Asaiah Foster has been attending Madam President Camp since it began in St. Joseph. Now entering her third year, she shared her favorite part of the experience.
"I enjoy just seeing so many people that have been in the Missouri community and have made such a big difference, and shown that other girls can do the same thing," said Foster.
One of the camp’s key features is its 5:1 mentor-to-camper ratio, giving girls the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with mentors who can guide and inspire them as they step into leadership roles.
Founded in 2012 by Dr. Lee Smithson Burd, Madam President Camp continues to empower young girls across Missouri. The St. Joseph branch plans to return to Missouri Western next year with hopes of expanding the program. One exciting new addition being considered is a Career Day, which would showcase women from the local community working in a variety of fields.
