Special to the American Press

Registration is open for the 2024 session of Louisiana Boys State, which will be hosted on Northwestern State University’s campus in Natchitoches from June 23 – 29.

Each year young men from across the state of Louisiana converge at Louisiana Boys State, for a hands-on learning experience where they 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, known as citizens, 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.

“Each year, young men leave Louisiana Boys State 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,” said Yancy LeGrande, Louisiana Boys State Director of Recruitment. “The application process to attend Louisiana Boys State varies among schools and American Legion posts, so I encourage students to contact their guidance counselor or the Legionnaire for their area listed on our website.”

To learn more about attending Louisiana Boys State, contacting program staff, or daily activities, please visit LABoysState.com.