The Next Generation: Elise Kostial

Merriam-Webster defines hope as “desire combined with an expectation of obtainment”. But to Concerned Women for America (CWA), one young lady, Elise Kostial, is a perfect embodiment of hope. Elise is the 2011 winner of CWA’s “Next Generation” award. At only 15 years old, God is preparing this young woman in a major way and moving her towards leading other youth in accordance with His principles. Elise is the right kind of hope and change America needs.

Raised in a God-fearing home, Elise’s mother and father truly grasped their Biblical role as their daughter’s primary spiritual teachers and educators. Elise’s parent’s tremendous physical, financial and relational sacrifices have paid off. Elise’s superb homeschool education has equipped her with a deep understanding of the Biblical principles our Founding Fathers held dear. She has been described as a “wiz” when it comes to the Constitution, one who cherishes religious liberty and the moral values our nation was founded on.

In 2008 Elise and her mother joined the efforts of CWA. Thanks to the flexibility of homeschooling, Elise has the unique opportunity to apprentice under CWA of Missouri State Director Bev Ehlen. In this capacity, Elise gains first-hand experience in legislation by accompanying Bev to the Missouri State Capitol to discuss important issues with state legislators. Bev treasures her apprentice, describing her as “a quiet young lady who speaks with authority.” Bev goes on to say, “She is such a polite young lady that she takes representatives by surprise. Elise is very gracious servant-leader, always ready to do whatever needs to be done. She just blows me away!”

In her hometown, Elise is a renowned spokeswoman. Recently, Elise provided testimony on a tax issue in front of her town’s Board of Aldermen, a local law-making body. After she spoke, the entire audience was “wowed.” Elise spoke so powerfully that she defeated the arguments presented by the Board, which later passed a new law stating that no one under the age of 18 was allowed to testify. Elise was only 14 at the time!

Now finished with her homeschool studies, Elise devotes much of her time to working with CWA of Missouri. Elise has started the first Young Women for America (YWA) chapter in Missouri, CWA’s newest initiative to engage the next generation of conservative women. Serving as Chairman of her local YWA, Elise and her fellow YWA leaders speak at numerous State Capitol rallies on life and family and infuse God’s truths into their local schools, universities and churches.

No doubt, God has used these experiences to prepare Elise to be a great servant-leader. We know God will continue to use Elise to carry the hope of Jesus Christ and to effect change through the citizens of America.

Elise reminds us that no matter how young, or old, we can still spread the Good News, bringing change and the hope of salvation to the lives of those around us. To begin changing your state, join your local Prayer/Action Chapter by clicking here.