top of page
What is Boys State

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.

Where is Boys State

WHERE IS BOYS STATE

TRINE UNIVERSITY in Angola, Indiana

Trine University is a private university in Angola, Indiana. It was founded in 1884 and offers degrees in the arts and sciences, business, education, and engineering. 

825_585_trine-university-2.png
What to expect at HBS

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

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

SCHOLARSHIPS

FAQ'S

Famous Alumni

HBS Prominent Alumni

Indiana_Governor_Mitch_Daniels.jpg

Mitch Daniels

Former President of Purdue University and Former Governor of Indiana

1200px-Dick_Lugar_official_photo_2010.jpeg

Richard Lugar

Former United States Senator

JAllen-819x1024.jpeg

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

bottom of page