March 18, 2025

Nominate a future leader: Applications now open for Iowa Boys State 2025

By Newton News
Participants will engage directly with Iowa's top officials, military leaders and professionals, gaining invaluable experience in leadership, communication, and civic responsibility.

Participants will engage directly with Iowa's top officials, military leaders and professionals, gaining invaluable experience in leadership, communication, and civic responsibility. (Metro Creative)

The American Legion of Iowa is now accepting applications for Iowa Boys State 2025, June 22-27 at Camp Dodge in Johnston. This premier leadership and civics program provides high school juniors with a hands-on opportunity to experience government in action, develop critical leadership skills and build lifelong connections.

For 85 years, Iowa Boys State has shaped generations of young men into confident, capable leaders. This six-day immersive program brings together motivated high school juniors to run a fully functioning mock government, draft legislation, and make real-time decisions in a dynamic and engaging environment. Participants will engage directly with Iowa’s top officials, military leaders, and professionals, gaining invaluable experience in leadership, communication, and civic responsibility.

Iowa Boys State has a proven track record of preparing young men for success. Notable alumni include President Bill Clinton, astronaut Neil Armstrong, Supreme Court justices, business executives, and professional athletes such as Michael Jordan. Graduates of the program leave with a competitive edge for college applications, career opportunities and future leadership roles.

Thanks to the support of the American Legion, Iowa Boys State is offered at no cost to participants. Housing, meals, and activities are fully covered, ensuring that all eligible students have access to this transformative experience.

Iowa Boys State is open to high school juniors who demonstrate leadership potential and an interest in public service or community involvement. Parents, teachers, coaches, and community leaders are encouraged to identify and nominate students who would benefit from this unparalleled opportunity.

Applications are now open, and spots fill quickly. Interested students and their families can learn more and apply at iowaboysstate.org. For additional information, contact Eric Less, Programs Director at The American Legion of Iowa, at eric@ialegion.org.