Mountain State Times

U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito brought her Girls Rise Up program to Ruthlawn Elementary School in Charleston, West Virginia, today. This marked the 36th event of the program, where Capito was joined by Rosie Rios, Chair of America250. The meeting involved discussions with fourth and fifth-grade female students about self-confidence, education, and physical fitness. They also talked about America250, the organization preparing for the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Senator Capito is one of the few Senate-appointed commissioners for America250, and Rios serves as its Chair.

“As our nation prepares to celebrate such a historic milestone, I can’t think of a better group of young girls who will lead us to even greater heights in the future. Empowering the next generation of leaders is one of the most important investments we can make. I was proud to bring my Girls Rise Up program to a new group of students, alongside Rosie Rios—a trailblazer in her own right. Together, we delivered the message to these young women that if they dream big, lead boldly, and know their voices matter, that the sky is the limit,” said Senator Capito.

Rosie Rios expressed her support, stating, “I’m honored to join Senator Capito and the Girls Rise Up initiative to help inspire the next generation of leaders. As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, it’s vital that we empower the voices who will define the next 250 years. Girls Rise Up is helping young women see themselves as leaders in America’s next chapter and I’m proud to be a part of it.”

The principal of Ruthlawn Elementary, Natalie Laliberty, welcomed their presence, highlighting the importance of female leaders. “With great reverence, I am pleased to welcome Senator Capito and the 43rd United States Treasurer Rosie Rios to Ruthlawn Elementary. Two shining examples of what is possible when girls chart their own course. Girls Rise Up is such a wonderful opportunity for current leaders in their field to share strength, wisdom and self-determination with our future leaders, who just happen to be girls. We need our female youth to be passionate about their personal stories of growth and grit and never give up on their dreams. Another pioneering woman, Eleanor Roosevelt, said, ‘The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.’ Together we can build an awareness of Girl’s Rise Up’s three pillars of success, so our young ladies can be ‘Mustang STRONG,’ this year and beyond. Thank you, Senator Capito, for your vision and dedication to guiding a better future!” said Laliberty.

The Girls Rise Up program, established in 2015 by Senator Capito, aims to encourage young women in West Virginia through promoting self-assurance, alongside a focus on education and physical well-being.