WHAT IS BOYS STATE
Hoosier Boys State builds important real-world skills and leadership qualities in exceptional young men by creating a functional state government based on Indiana’s political process.
During this week-long program, boys going into their senior year of high school will actively collaborate to establish platforms for two made-up parties, participate in elections, propose laws, negotiate bills and enforce the established legislation from the local up to the state level.
​
Hoosier Boys State fulfills the civics requirement for Graduation Pathways Diploma.
WHAT TO EXPECT
-
Review and execution of city, county, and state-level government
-
Instruction and participation of legal and legislative procedures
-
Becoming a candidate for political office
-
Learn about political party operation
-
Opportunities to meet with local and state government officials
-
Boys State Band, Athletics, and extra curriculars throughout the week
HBS participants each have a unique experience and will experience opportunities to prepare for future leadership positions. Every student’s experience is different and as we will tell you on Day 1 – you get out of this program what you put into it.
“I had a great time learning about the government and meeting new people. HBS really helped me come out of my shell and allowed me to be myself around other people. I had a great time meeting people I will never forget!”
Jonathan Kunkel,
2016 Delegate
WHAT TO BRING
Clothing: T-shirts and shorts can be worn for most activities. Dress clothes (suite, button downs, ties, etc.) are appropriate when running for a state office. You will need a pair of black pants for photos and the closing ceremony. Also bring chilly weather clothing, just in case.
Bedding: Sheets (twin long), blankets, pillows and /or a sleeping bag. A bed is provided but bedding is not.
Hygiene supplies: Towels, personal toiletries
Athletic Clothes: Gym shoes, athletic shorts and shirts. There is time daily for athletics and other activities
School Supplies: Notebook, pens/pencils. Posterboard and markers for campaigning.
Musical Instrument: If you are a musician and want to participate in the HBS band or perform in the annual talent show and your instrument is easy to transport, bring it!
​
Talent Show Props: If you want to participate in the annual talent show, bring whatever you need to succeed!
Money: Minimal amount for supply runs (no more than $30)
Misc: Phone chargers, refillable water bottle, sunscreen
What NOT to bring: Laptop, gaming systems, iPads, pre-made campaign materials
​
Disclaimer: Hoosier Boys State, The American Legion, and Trine University are not responsible for lost items.
SCHOLARSHIPS
FAQ'S
HBS Prominent Alumni
Mitch Daniels
Former President of Purdue University and Former Governor of Indiana
Richard Lugar
Former United States Senator
Dr. Joseph Allen
Former NASA Astronaut
Additional Hoosier Boys State alumni
Frank O’Bannon, Former United States Senator and Governor
Birch Bayh, Former United States Congressman
Phil Sharp, Former United States Congressman
Lee Hamilton, Former United States Congressman
Paul S. Mannweiler, Former Speaker of the House
Brian Bosma, Former Speaker of the House
Edward Simcox, Former Indiana Secretary of State
Joseph Hogsett, Former Indiana Secretary of State
Honorable Randall Shepard, Former Chief Justice of the Indiana Supreme Court
Honorable Brent Dickson, Former Chief Justice of the Indiana Supreme Court
Brian Lamb, Former CEO of “C-Span”
Terry Lester, Actor “The Young & The Restless”
​
Boys State Alumni from other states
Joe Biden, U.S. President
Michael Jordan, Retired NBA player
Bill Clinton, Former U.S. President
Dick Cheney, Former Vice President
Neil Armstrong, Retired Astronaut
Tom Brokaw, Retired TV News Personality