Testimonials
Texas Boys State is a celebrated program having graduated several of America’s leaders. Boys State programs around the U.S. count among their alumni such leaders as Bill Clinton, George Pataki, Harry Reid, Mike Huckabee, Neil Armstrong, and Michael Jordan.
Below is but a sampling of praise Texas Boys State has received in recent years:
“For admission into Texas A&M, we value leadership development in our applicants and look favorably on those who have been selected to attend the Boys State program. We view this program as one that brings together students who have exhibited strong academic potential, solid leadership skills, dedicated commitment to service, and strength in character.”
– Dr. Alice Reinarz, Assistant Provost for Enrollment, Texas A&M University“Throughout my 36-year career as a high school teacher, Congressional aide, member of the Texas House of Representatives and as a university president, I have observed the results of the effective leadership experiences given to students who participate in Boys State. This outstanding program prepares young men for leadership in university student government organizations, giving participants a competitive edge when they enroll in their respective universities. I know of no better experiential learning programs for those who have a keen interest in government and politics. I recommend the Boys State experience without reservation!”
– Dr. Lanny Hall, President, Howard Payne University“The American Legion Boys State Program is not an insignificant experience in the lives of the young men who participate. It’s unfortunate that more young men cannot have this once in a lifetime opportunity. It has been a life altering event in the lives of many young men over the years. Friendships develop and flourish, dreams are born and human potential is stirred, memories are made while new personal challenges begin to govern career goals–all of this from one short, but powerful program. I highly recommend the Boys State Program.”
– Dr. Dennis P. McCabe, President, Tarleton State University“51 years ago I stepped onto the UT Campus, a nervous young boy from Baytown, Texas. When I pulled on my white Boys State T-shirt with my Levi jeans, loafers and a fresh flattop haircut I started an incredible few days of what could only be called a civics reality show. I ran for state treasurer (and lost) but I did learn how to make political signs and overcome my fear of talking to strangers (not just talking but trying to convince them to vote for me). I yelled like crazy for my party’s gubernatorial candidate. I saw an incredible performance by a hypnotist. I stared in wonder at the mustangs in the fountain on San Jacinto. I danced in Gregory Gym with a Girls State attendee from my high school (the two programs overlapped at that time). It seems that I remember more details from those few days 51 years ago than I remember about last month…that says something about how powerful the experience was. Because I now work at UT, last week I stepped out of the Texas Union to a parade of young men wearing their white Boys State T-shirt and jeans and starting their own few days of a civic reality show. What a rush of memories filled my heart and mind. These young men will do many important things in their lives as our future leaders but I am betting that the memory of Boys State will be among their most treasured. There is a sales slogan used by a local car dealership that states ‘We couldn’t have stuck around this long if we were doin’ you wrong.’ Amen to that and Go Boys State!”
– Bruce Walker, Vice Provost & Director of Admissions, University of Texas at Austin
