MANHATTAN — Approximately 420 young men from across the State of Kansas, all of whom will be entering their senior year of high school this fall, are anticipated to participate in the 2019 session of the American Legion Boys State of Kansas Leadership Academy. The event, in its 82nd year, will be held Sunday, June 2, through Friday, June 7, at Kansas State University in Manhattan.

The ALBSKLA provides a relevant, interactive, problem-solving experience in leadership and teamwork that develops self-identity, promotes mutual respect and instills civic responsibility. Boys State is a “learning by doing” political exercise that simulates elections, political parties and government at the state, county and local levels, providing opportunities to lead under pressure, showcasing character and working effectively within a team. It’s also an opportunity to gain pride and respect for government and the price paid by members of the military to preserve democracy. 

Among the major events and special speakers during the week:

Sunday, June 2

Opening Ceremonies, 2:45 p.m., McCain Auditorium

Keynote speaker: Alejandro Rangel-Lopez, 2018 Kansas Boys State delegate from Dodge City High School and 2019 graduate of DCHS. Rangel-Lopez, who will serve as a KBS departments counselor for this year’s session, was a plaintiff in a voting rights lawsuit in October 2018 against Ford County when it was announced the only voting site in Dodge City the following month would be at a location outside the city limits.

Monday, June 3

Swearing in of KBS mayors, 7 p.m., Assembly Area (Marlatt Hall parking lot)

Party Caucuses, 7:45-10:15 p.m., Cardwell Hall, Room 101 Federalist Party and Nationalist Party members will select their candidates for the six state offices and formulate their party platforms. This is not open to the public.

Tuesday, June 4

KBS National Guard training at Fort Riley, Kan., 8:45-11:30 a.m. This is not open to the public.

KBS Governor candidates’ debate, 1 to 2 p.m., Wefald Hall

Announcement of KBS general election winners for state offices and swearing in ceremony, 7 p.m., Assembly Area

Wednesday, June 5

KBS Governor’s Inaugural Address, Talent Show and keynote speaker, Adrion Roberson, 7:15 p.m., McCain Auditorium

Roberson is on the core teaching team at the Kansas Leadership Center based in Wichita as a facilitator of adaptive thinking competencies for the purpose of helping individuals make progress in/on daunting challenges. He also serves as co-pastor of Berean Fellowship Church in Kansas City, Kan.

Thursday, June 6

Flag Retirement Ceremony, 7:15 p.m., World War II Memorial in front of McCain Auditorium

KBS Band and Chorus Concerts, followed by Boys Nation candidates’ speeches, 7:45 p.m., McCain Auditorium

Friday, June 7

Closing Ceremonies, noon to 2 p.m., McCain Auditorium

Announcement of Boys Nation senators

Announcement of Outstanding Citizens from each KBS city