Government and How it Works 2026

The Cornhusker Boys’ State delegates began their government simulation experience last night with their local elections. Today, these students are learning the ropes from state and area leaders before they hold their first city and school board meetings to debate their local policies.

Thank you to the following presenters who shared their expertise with our delegates:

  • Attorney Steve Gealey – State Court System and How It Works
  • Brandon Metzler, Clerk of the Legislature – Unicameral Legislature and How It Works
  • Attorney John Zimmer and Mayor Dave Bauer – City Government and How It Works
  • Jack Russell, Nate Grasz, and Lillian Butler-Hale – Lobbying and Political Action Committees
  • Marcia Herring, Nebraska Association of School Boards – School Boards: Roles and Responsibilities
  • Dr. John Skretta, Superintendent of Lincoln Public Schools – “Strong Minds, Strong Men”

Picture Day

It’s picture day. The boys posed for town photos in front of iconic Memorial Stadium on the University of Nebraska campus in Lincoln. Official town portraits will be available before the end of the week.

Cornhusker Boys’ State 2026 Arrival Photos

The 2026 session of Cornhusker Boys’ State officially began this week, welcoming hundreds of Nebraska’s top high school juniors for an immersive leadership and civic engagement experience. Sponsored by The American Legion, the weeklong program provides participants with a hands-on opportunity to learn about government, public service, and responsible citizenship by creating a mock state government. Throughout the session, delegates will campaign for office, participate in legislative and judicial activities, engage distinguished guest speakers, and develop leadership skills that will serve them well in their communities and future careers. The camp has been held annually on the University of Nebraska campus in Lincoln since 1938.

Below are some photos of the students arriving on campus this afternoon.

Outstanding Citizen Awards 2025

Each year, citizens of every Cornhusker Boys’ State town vote to select their outstanding citizen. This award is special as it is recognition given by peers to an individual who has contributed to the town’s success and positive culture.

Bunker Hill – William Pool of Waverly High School

Valley Forge – Edwin Naranjo of Boone Central High School

Gettysburg – Luis Loya of Wahoo High School

Yorktown – Callaway Seip of Nebraska Christian High School (Grand Island)

Alamo – Rodney Tuttle Jr. of Papillion-LaVista South High School

Manila Bay – Reece Santamaria of Papillion-LaVista South High School

Bataan – Tyler Cape of Gering High School

Belleau Wood – Roosevelt Wilkin of Millard South High School

Samsung Scholarship 2025

Samsung American Legion Scholarship

To show its appreciation for U.S. veterans who came to Korea’s aid during its struggle against communist forces during the Korean War, worldwide electronics leader Samsung endowed a scholarship fund of $5 million in 1966. The American Legion administers the Samsung American Legion Scholarship Program, which is funded by the interest and other income from the endowment. For more information on the program visit: https://www.legion-aux.org/scholarships/

The American Legion Department of Nebraska has selected Ethan Samuelson of Kearney Catholic High School as the 2025 recipient.

Ethan Samuelson of Kearney Catholic HS is the 2025 Samsung Scholarship recipient.