by Eric | 5 Jun 2026 | 2026, Featured Slider, Top Stories, Executive
Lincoln, NE- The Governor of the 86th Annual American Legion Cornhusker Boys’ State is Kap Nedunoori of Omaha and Millard North High School. Governor Elect Nedunoori won a popular vote of his fellow Cornhusker Boys’ State delegates versus Kearney’s Riley Junker. Nedunoori will be sworn in at the Boys’ State graduation ceremony at Hawks Hall on the University of Nebraska campus.
Cornhusker Boys’ State Governor 2026, Kap Nedunoori of Omaha’s Millard North High School.
by Eric | 5 Jun 2026 | 2026, Featured Slider, Top Stories
Cornhusker Boys State Delegates Visit Nebraska State Capitol
LINCOLN, Neb. — Delegates attending Cornhusker Boys’ State visited the Nebraska State Capitol this week, gaining a firsthand look at the workings of state government and Nebraska’s unique Unicameral Legislature. The visit is a longstanding highlight of the leadership and citizenship program, which brings together high school students from across the state to learn about public service and civic engagement. While at the Capitol, the Boys’ State legislature and court system held mock trials and legislative sessions.
by Eric | 4 Jun 2026 | 2026, Featured Slider, Featured Stories, Track Meet
The Cornhusker Boys’ State track meet was held on June 4, 2026 on the University of Nebraska campus. The events included the 100M, 1600M, 400M, 800M, 4X100M, 4X400M, Shot Put, and Long Jump.
by Eric | 3 Jun 2026 | Featured Slider, Featured Stories
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.
by Eric | 1 Jun 2026 | 2026, Featured Slider, Top Stories
American Legion Cornhusker Boys’ State Elects 2026 Town Mayors
American Legion Cornhusker Boys’ State participants have elected their town mayors, marking an important milestone in the program’s hands-on approach to civic leadership and government.
Following spirited campaigns and elections, delegates selected student leaders to serve as mayors for their respective towns. The newly elected mayors will help guide town activities, lead meetings, and represent their communities throughout the week as citizens experience the responsibilities of public service and local government.
The following delegates were elected mayor by their Boys’ state town.
- Bunker Hill – Lailend Duncan, Papillion (Papillion-LaVista HS)
- Valley Forge – Nathan Latacha, Omaha (Elkhorn South HS)
- Yorktown – Enzo Manzitto, Omaha (Elkhorn South HS)
- Gettysburg – Max Mills, Elkhorn (Elkhorn South HS)
- Alamo – Kap Nedunoori, Omaha (Millard North HS)
- Manila Bay – Ben Heirigs, North Platte (St. Patrick HS)
- Bataan – Nicholas Krapfl, Omaha (Westview HS)
- Belleau Wood – Sonny Harley, Omaha (Central HS)
The mayoral elections provided delegates with a firsthand look at the democratic process, from campaigning and public speaking to voting and leadership. These experiences are a cornerstone of the Boys’ State program, which seeks to develop informed, engaged, and responsible future leaders.
Congratulations to all elected mayors and to every delegate who participated in the election process. Their enthusiasm and commitment to civic engagement continue the proud tradition of American Legion Cornhusker Boys’ State.
