Governor For A Day

What would you do if you were Rhode Island’s Governor for a day?

Every day I talk with young girls and women—from my own daughter to successful Rhode Island businesswomen—and I am reminded how important it is to expose young girls to the significance of public service.

Girls should know that, with hard work and dedication, the opportunities available to them here in Rhode Island are endless. That’s why I created the “Governor for a Day” essay contest for 5th–8th grade girls. This contest will give us all a chance to engage in that conversation.

2020 Governor for a Day Contest


Governor Gina Raimondo's Women's History Month initiative is open to girls in 5th through 8th grade throughout the state. Interested applicants should apply by March 27, 2020 and answer this question in 400 words or fewer, either in a written essay or in a 1-2 minute video: "What would you do if you were Rhode Island's Governor for a day?"

How to Apply:

Students must submit the following information along with their essay or video:

  • Name
  • Age
  • School
  • Grade
  • Home Address
  • Phone Number
  • Email Address
  • Teacher’s Contact Information
  • Parent or Guardian Name(s)
  • Parent or Guardian Phone Number

Applicants may email their essays or videos as an attachment to communications@governor.ri.gov. Google documents or other file sharing services will not be accepted. Videos must be no larger than 14MB, no longer than 2 minutes, and emailed as an attachment. Email submissions must include “2020 GFAD” in the subject line. The Governor’s office will confirm that submissions have been received within 24 hours (72 hours on weekends).

Teachers looking to incorporate the contest into their curriculum should feel free to use the attached worksheet.

Students may also mail essays and accompanying information to:

“Governor for a Day” Essay Contest 
c/o Governor’s Communications Office
82 Smith Street, Room 110
Providence, RI 02903

Best of luck to all applicants!



Office of the Governor
82 Smith Street
Providence, RI 02903
Phone: (401) 222-2080
Fax: (401) 222-8096
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