The Louisiana Department of the American Legion’s Louisiana Boys State program will return to Northwestern State University’s campus from June 25, 2023, to July 1, 2023.
Over 200 young men from across the state of Louisiana will converge in Natchitoches, Louisiana, for a hands-on learning experience where they will master the ins and outs of the Louisiana political system. Rising high school seniors elect their peers to positions ranging from city council to governor.
“The Louisiana Department of the American Legion has proudly sponsored Louisiana Boys State since 1940, and we are excited to have our state’s best and brightest young men attend this year’s program,” said Tina Cielatka, Louisiana Boys State Commission Chair. “Year after year, young men leave the program transformed to be the leaders of tomorrow.”
The program’s hands-on approach allows participants to experience for themselves the various issues faced by government officials. Every single program attendee is challenged to overcome issues faced by local government officials, craft legislation, and play an active role in the judicial system.
Citizens also have the opportunity to interact with leaders from across the state including local and state government officials, business leaders, members of the media, and active service officers or officer cadets in the U.S. military. Speakers from a variety of backgrounds offer their perspectives on what leadership and public service mean and look like in the real world.
“We believe the goal of Louisiana Boys State is to develop young men into better citizens of the world,” said Micah Scott, Louisiana Boys State staff member. “We want them to leave the program with a stronger understanding of how state government works, a desire to engage productively on difficult topics from multiple perspectives, and a more comfortable grasp on their leadership style and what it means to be a civically engaged, productive member of society. We do that in an environment that is fun and interactive for every young man that joins us. It’s a lot to accomplish in one week, but year after year, young men leave Boys State changed for the better.”
To learn more about attending Louisiana Boys State, contacting program staff, or daily activities, please visit LABoysState.com.
