A new administrative year for the ALA began in Louisville, Ky., when we concluded our 105^th National Convention. Now, the next chapter begins — with new leadership at the helm of our organization.

Dr. Coral May Grout of Massachusetts was elected national president of the American Legion Auxiliary by delegates during the convention.
 

“As we take these department and national offices, we accept not only a title, but a trust — to lead with honor, serve with humility, and strengthen the legacy placed in our hands, in support of our veterans, military, children, and our communities,” Grout said from the convention stage.  
 
Before being elected to the ALA’s highest volunteer office, Grout held numerous leadership positions in the organization at the unit, district, department, and national levels. At the national level, she served as chair of several programs, including chair of Children & Youth, Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation, Education (twice), Americanism, Constitution & Bylaws, Public Relations, Legislative, Leadership, Community Service, and Junior Activities committees. She also served on the National Executive Committee, and as national secretary, national historian, and national vice president.
 
Grout is a member of Eugene M. Connor Unit 193 in Massachusetts. She is eligible for membership through her father, Charles E. Grout, who served in the U.S. Air Force in the Philippines and Australia during World War II. She also adds the military service of her grandfather, Stanislas Laplante, who served in the U.S. Army during WWI.

In her professional life, Grout was in education for over 50 years in positions ranging from an English teacher to a superintendent. 

 
National Focus
The 2026-2027 ALA administrative year emphasis is on education, with expanding the Spirit of Youth scholarships to two military spouses and celebrating the 20^th anniversary of Give 10 to Education.

Learn more about the administrative year focus here.
 

Fun facts about 2026-2027 American Legion Auxiliary National President Dr. Coral May Grout 

My favorite places to travel: 

• Quebec City (I speak French fluently and have family there)
• Barbados (great shopping, beaches, and golf)
• Sunset Beach, Fla. (right near my Florida home)

• Australia (just an amazing place to visit, no matter where you go. I spent my sabbatical there with my parents. My dad was stationed in Townsville during World War II, and I had a chance to return with my parents. Can’t wait to go back) 

• I have been doing flag collecting since the age of 6 and have about 250 flags in my collection 
• I also enjoy gardening and love to walk (I do 4-6 miles every day)

• I’ve been playing golf for more than 50 years 

• Tacos (from Taco Bell) and mac and cheese

• I also like iced tea, tuna fish, shrimp, and obviously “lobstah”

• I live in my family home which is 101 years old. My family has lived here for 80 years.