The Nebraska Cornhuskers had a remarkable run in NCAA Basketball this season, including the school’s first-ever wins in the NCAA tournament. The students were excited to meet Cale Jacobsen, a regular contributor on the 2025-2026 roster! Cale attended Ashland-Greenwood HS and was kind enough to spend some time with the delegates and offer his encouragement. Thank you, Cale!
Cale Jacobsen speaks to 2026 Cornhusker Boys’ State delegates.
One of the most exciting traditions at Cornhusker Boys State is the formation of our two fictional political parties: the Nationalists and the Federalists. Upon arrival, delegates are randomly assigned to one of these parties, creating a unique opportunity to experience the political process firsthand.
Throughout the week, delegates participate in party caucuses and conventions, where they learn how political parties organize, debate issues, and select candidates. During caucuses, party members meet to discuss leadership positions, campaign strategies, and the qualities they want in their candidates. Delegates are encouraged to speak, persuade, and collaborate as they build support for their ideas.
The convention process brings the entire party together to nominate candidates for statewide offices and adopt party platforms. Candidates deliver speeches, answer questions, and campaign for votes, while delegates evaluate who they believe will best represent their party.
Unlike real-world politics, the Nationalist and Federalist parties at Boys State do not reflect specific modern political ideologies. Instead, they serve as educational tools that allow participants to engage in the democratic process while competing in a spirited but respectful environment. Students engage in the challenging process of building a party platform from scratch.
By participating in caucuses and conventions, Boys State delegates gain valuable experience in public speaking, leadership, teamwork, and civic engagement. These activities help bring government to life and demonstrate how citizens can work together to shape the future of their communities.
For many delegates, the energy and excitement of party conventions are among the most memorable experiences of their Boys State week.
In our first joint session of 2026, Cornhusker Boys’ State and Cornhusker Girls State returned to the newly renovated Kimball Hall on the UNL campus to hear from Dr. Joanne Owen’s Nauslar. Dr. Jo encouraged the delegates at Cornhusker Boys’ State with her interactive keynote address, “Secure Your Own Mask First.” The atmosphere was electric!
Dr. Joanne Owens-Nauslar’s motivational speech, “Secure Your Own Mask First,” emphasizes the importance of self-care, humor, and self-compassion. Drawing from her expertise and experience, she encouraged the students to prioritize their well-being, set boundaries, and embrace authenticity. Through stories and practical tips, Dr. Owens-Nauslar illustrates how caring for oneself fosters greater resilience and fulfillment. Her message inspired the Boys’ Staters to take ownership of their lives and prioritize their needs, ultimately empowering them to make a positive impact on the world.
The eight towns of Cornhusker Boys State held elections earlier this week to determine the leadership of their cities, school districts, and legislative representatives. Following the elections, the delegates attend workshops specific to their elected positions to learn more about their new roles and responsibilities. Once training is complete, the students will engage in a government simulation experience where they will hold meetings and consider legislation and policies for their individual communities. We are proud of the winners as well as the challengers who gave their best efforts and contributed to the experience!
See the results below, listed by town:
The newly elected Unicameral Legislature of Cornhusker Boys’ State was in session in Lincoln today. First, the senators met with Brandon Metzler, Clerk of the Nebraska Legislature. Mr. Metzler discussed the legislative process and generously answered questions from the students. The next order of business is to elect the body’s leadership. The Boys State Unicameral will continue to meet and debate mock legislation throughout the camp. The activity culminates with a memorable session in the historic Warner chamber at the Nebraska State Capitol.
