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Press Release

Western District Of Louisiana U.S. Attorney Speaks To Arthur F. Smith Middle Magnet School Students

For Immediate Release
U.S. Attorney's Office, Western District of Louisiana
 

Alexandria, La. – United States Attorney Stephanie A. Finley visited with  Arthur F. Smith Middle Magnet School students last week in Alexandria, La.  Ms. Finley was the featured speaker at an event held on the evening of May 24, 2013 for young women who are members of “Girls With Purpose” and their mothers.  The Mother and Daughter Tea of Excellence marked a successful year of membership and school involvement for the girls in attendance.

Girls With Purpose is a mentoring group for young women who attend Arthur F. Smith Middle Magnet School.  The group meets weekly and promotes the values of a good education and self-esteem.  Dr. Norvella Williams, the Principal of Arthur F. Smith Middle Magnet School, started the organization to encourage young girls to stay focused, excel academically, attend college and make good career choices.

United States Attorney Finley spoke to the girls and their mothers about her job as the chief law enforcement officer for the district and her local connection.  Finley was born in Pineville and spent her formative years in the Cenla area, attending St. Frances Cabrini School and Pineville High School.  She discussed challenges that all young people face.  She encouraged the girls to reach for the stars and shared with them that if they work hard, make good grades and stay focused, they are bound to succeed. 

“I am honored to be invited to speak to these young women,” Finley said.  "My life has been filled with great teachers and mentors.  This organization should be commended for their efforts to steer these young ladies in the right direction.  I always try to meet with young people and encourage them to dream big and remind them that there is not anything they can’t do.  We all can do a little to try to be positive influences.  These children have so many distractions; anything that I can do or say to help them focus and assist these great educators, I am more than happy to do so.”

Updated May 18, 2017

Topic
Community Outreach