Monday Educational Workshop Sessions

Each Boys’ State town has elected its local government and Cornhusker Boys’ State senators. Before their inaugural meetings, it’s time to learn the ropes. Delegates attended educational workshops to learn the roles and responsibilities of their new positions. Additionally, they had the opportunity to discuss many contemporary issues that face the community. Sessions included:

State Court System and How it Works – Steve Gealy, Attorney, Baylor Evnen Law Firm

Nebraska’s Unicameral Legislature and How it Works – Brandon Metzler, Clerk of the Nebraska Legislature

City Government and How it Works –  Lash Chaffin, Attorney

Lobbying and Political Action Committees –
Tim Hruza*, Attorney & Lobbyist, Mueller Robak LLC
Nate Grasz, Executive Director, Nebraska Family Alliance
Lillian Butler-Hale, Outreach & Engagement Director, OpenSky Policy Institute

School Boards: Roles and Responsibilities – Marcia Herring, Director, Nebraska Association of School Boards

Presentation of Major Party Platforms

Representatives from the Nebraska Republican and Democratic parties visited Cornhusker Boys’ State today. There was a lively discussion of each party’s platform and current political issues in the United States. The speakers generously took questions from the audience and stayed after their presentations to visit with students one-on-one.

Mary Jane Truemper, State Chairwoman, Nebraska Republican Party
Gina Frank, Outreach Director, Nebraska Democratic Party

Pre-Primary Meetings & Campaigning

At Cornhusker Boys State, high school juniors from across Nebraska engage in a week-long immersion in civic education and political engagement. One of the program’s most exciting aspects is the campaign process, where students vie for elected positions, including governor, lieutenant governor, and attorney general. Through spirited campaigning, passionate advocacy, and Election Day anticipation, delegates experience firsthand the democratic process in action.

Beyond the thrill of the campaign, Cornhusker Boys State offers a comprehensive exploration of citizenship and leadership. Delegates participate in workshops, interact with elected officials, and develop a deeper understanding of civic responsibility. This transformative experience equips young leaders with the skills and insights needed to make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.

Elections in Nebraska

Deputy Secretary of State, Wayne Bena,  had a conversation with delegates on the topic of elections in Nebraska. Dep. Secretary Bena covered a range of issues from election process, changes in voter ID requirements, common misconceptions regarding elections/voting, the need for poll volunteers, early voting, and other current issues in society regarding election security and confidence in elections.

Thank you to the Secretary of State’s office for your support of the Boys State program.