Girl Scouts Interview Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice

On September 12, 2008, four girls from the Girl Scout Council of the Nation's Capital had the opportunity of a lifetime to interview Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice about various topics ranging from her personal history to her job as an influential actor in U.S. foreign policy. The girls represented the range of Girl Scouting from Brownies to Seniors.

Secretary Rice graciously extends her time to Girl Scouts. From left to right: Michelle Tompkins, Communications, Girl Scouts Jasmine, Annabelle, Colette and Kathryn, and Alice Hockenbury, Public Policy & Advocacy.

The girls (and a few excited, supportive family members!) spent the morning in the GSUSA Public Policy and Advocacy Office preparing for their interview by reviewing their questions, conducting a mock interview, and receiving tips from staff. Alice Hockenbury, Director of Advocacy, spent time reviewing the basics of the branches of government and how Secretary Rice's job connects to and influences the work of the government and the Office of the President. The session ended with a screening of a biography highlighting Secretary Rice's personal and professional journey to this influential position.

The girls felt fully prepared and comfortable with this high-profile conversation and posed an insightful range of in-depth questions during their time with the Secretary. The interview was videotaped and can be seen on the GSTV Web page. An article also is planned for the next issue of Leader magazine.