From Arkansas Boys State
Arkansas Boys State will welcome 580 young men from 200 high schools across the state to its 85th summer session, held May 24-29, 2026, at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway. Sponsored by the American Legion, the weeklong leadership and civic engagement experience invites male high school juniors to learn how democracy works by building a mock government from the ground up.
Among the 580 young men are the following local students representing their community and school:
Spencer Seel, of Arkadelphia, from Arkadelphia High School
Kaden Bryant, of Arkadelphia, from Arkadelphia High School
Kaleb Cook, of Arkadelphia, from Gurdon High School
During the week, these local students will be assigned to a political party, city and county. Working alongside other delegates, they will help build a mock government from the ground up by running for office, drafting and debating legislation, addressing community challenges and engaging with constituents. The program’s guiding principle, “Democracy Depends on Me,” encourages students to understand civic responsibility not as an abstract idea, but as something they practice firsthand.
“Arkansas Boys State is designed for young men who are ready to step forward, challenge themselves and think deeply about how they can serve their communities,” said Lloyd Jackson, executive director of Arkansas Boys State. “The nomination of these students reflects the confidence others have in their character, leadership potential and commitment to making a difference.”
In addition to the government simulation, delegates participate in leadership discussions, real-world instructional tracks, recreation, political rallies, keynote lectures and question-and-answer sessions with business, civic, political and social leaders. Students also experience college life by living in residence halls, eating in campus dining facilities and taking part in a full schedule of activities throughout the week.
“Students leave Arkansas Boys State with more than a stronger understanding of government,” Jackson said. “They leave with new friendships, greater confidence in communicating their views and a deeper sense of responsibility to lead for the common good. We are excited for these students to be part of this life-changing experience as they represent their schools and communities.”
Arkansas Boys State has developed more than 60,000 alumni since its founding in 1940, including local, state, national and international leaders. Past participants include President Bill Clinton, former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, former White House Chiefs of Staff Mack McLarty and Jack Watson Jr., U.S. Sens. Tom Cotton and John Boozman, and Arkansas Chief Justice John Dan Kemp.
These local students will be guided by more than 70 volunteer staff members from across the country who return each summer to mentor and support Arkansas Boys State students. The volunteer staff includes college students and professionals with experience in education, public service, business, law, journalism, government and other fields.
More information about Arkansas Boys State is available at arboysstate.org.