Morrisville State College will host more than 1,000 high school junior boys and staff at this year’s American Legion Boys State government camp June 26-July 2. Attendees were chosen based on their exceptional qualities of leadership, character, scholarship, loyalty, and service to their schools.
Boys State is a week-long program that immerses high school youth, who are currently completing their junior year, in citizenship and leadership training. They learn the practical aspects of government in New York State, and also participate in physical fitness, teamwork and other activities, under the guidance of American Legion counselors and U.S. Marines.
Throughout the week, students learn how to run for office, organize campaigns and pass bills. They also develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for how government works. Among the activities in which they will participate are legislative sessions and court proceedings.
Participants follow a daily physical fitness program including calisthenics and marching in preparation of their parade, one of the high points of the program.
Boys State was developed by the American Legion in 1938 and its participants have influenced actual government legislation in the past. The junior driving license being issued at the age of 16 was an idea passed on to legislature in the 50s by Boys State. Well-known participants who have participated in Boys State include: former President Bill Clinton, former Vice President Al Gore and astronaut Neil Armstrong.
Boys State participants who choose to attend Morrisville State are eligible to receive a scholarship.