Media Contact:
Mike Vaughn
Director, Iowa Boys State
515-291-1896
director@iowaboysstate.org
DES MOINES, Iowa (January 29, 2026) – The American Legion of Iowa is now accepting nominations and applications for Iowa Boys State 2026, a premier leadership and civics program for high-achieving high school juniors. The six-day program will take place June 21-26 at Camp Dodge in Johnston, Iowa, offering students a transformative, hands-on experience in government, leadership, and public service.
For more than 85 years, Iowa Boys State has developed young men into confident, capable leaders by placing them inside a fully functioning mock government. During this six-day program, delegates create political parties, run for office, draft legislation, debate policy, and make real-time decisions-mirroring the responsibilities and pressures of real leadership. Participants also engage directly with elected officials, military leaders, judges, and professionals from across Iowa.
In addition to the leadership experience, more than $10,000 in scholarship opportunities are available exclusively to Iowa Boys State delegates. These scholarships, combined with the program’s rigorous academic and leadership components, make Iowa Boys State a powerful differentiator on college applications, scholarship interviews, and resumes.
Iowa Boys State alumni represent an elite network of leaders across public service, business, science, athletics, and the military. Notable Iowa alumni include NASA astronaut Raja Chari and U.S. Congressman Zach Nunn (IA-03). Nationally, Boys State graduates include President Bill Clinton, astronaut Neil Armstrong, Supreme Court justices, Fortune 500 executives, and professional athletes. Colleges, universities, and U.S. service academies widely recognize Boys State participation as a mark of exceptional leadership potential and civic engagement.
Thanks to the support of The American Legion of Iowa and local American Legion Posts, Iowa Boys State is provided at no cost to participants. Housing, meals, and all program activities are fully covered, ensuring that qualified students can attend regardless of financial circumstances.
Iowa Boys State is open to high school juniors who demonstrate leadership ability, strong character, and an interest in community involvement or public service. Parents, teachers, counselors, coaches, and community leaders are encouraged to nominate students who are ready to challenge themselves and stand out among their peers.
Applications are now open (www.iowaboysstate.org/apply), and space is limited. Additional information and application details are available at www.iowaboysstate.org. Questions may be directed to info@iowaboysstate.org.
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