MANHATTAN, Kan. — The deadline is approaching to apply for the 2025 session of the American Legion Boys State of Kansas, scheduled for June 1–7 at Kansas State University in Manhattan. Applications are due by Wednesday, April 30, though late submissions may be considered if space allows.
This year marks the 87th session of Kansas Boys State and the 33rd consecutive year the program will be held at K-State.
Traditionally open to high school juniors, the program has again expanded eligibility to include current sophomores. There is no cap on how many students a school, community or American Legion post may sponsor.
Boys State is a weeklong immersive experience that teaches leadership, teamwork and civic responsibility through a simulated government. Delegates form political parties, run for office, and manage local and state government functions in a hands-on learning environment. The program aims to develop personal responsibility and foster respect for the democratic process and those who serve in the military to protect it.
The program costs $375, but most participants receive sponsorships covering a majority of the expense. Families are typically asked to contribute $50. Applications can be submitted online at ksbstate.org.
Participants may earn three hours of college credit in Introduction to Political Science (POLSC 110) through K-State and can also pursue Eagle Scout merit badges. Attendees are also eligible for the Samsung American Legion Scholarship. The Kansas finalist will receive at least $1,250 and may be considered for a national award of up to $10,000.
Mike Finnegan, Ph.D., assistant professor and director of the Strengths initiative at Kansas State, will deliver the keynote address during the opening session at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, June 1, in McCain Auditorium. Finnegan, a 1998 Boys State alum, leads efforts to help students grow their unique talents and enhance well-being across the K-State campus.
Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab, also a 1998 alumnus, will offer remarks and administer the oath of office to the newly elected mayors during a ceremony at 6:50 p.m. Monday, June 2, at the Boys State Assembly Area outside Goodnow and Marlatt halls.
Organizations and individuals interested in sponsoring a delegate can find more information at ksbstate.org/sponsor-a-delegate. Questions may be directed to [email protected] or (785) 550-6492.
For more information on the Boys State program, visit ksbstate.org. Details about the 2025 American Legion Auxiliary Sunflower Girls State, set for June 1–6 at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, can be found at ksgirlsstate.org.