MANHATTAN – Thirty delegates at the American Legion Boys State of Kansas Leadership Academy have been elected mayor of their respective Kansas Boys State city. They were sworn in during a ceremony on Monday night by 2017 KBS Attorney General Conor Casey, a resident of Leavenworth and a 2018 graduate of Leavenworth High School.
Approximately 400 young men from across the State of Kansas, all of whom will enter their senior year of high school this fall, are participating in the 2018 session of the American Legion Boys State of Kansas Leadership Academy. The event, in its 81st year, started Sunday (June 3) and concludes Friday, June 8, at Kansas State University in Manhattan, which is hosting the session for the 27th consecutive year.
Local attendee elected as mayor is Geoffrey Pafford, Great Bend, City of Lane in Marshall County
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.