Boys State returns to Radford University

Radford University will proudly welcome nearly 650 young men of the 73rd American Legion Boys State of Virginia to campus as the program kicks off on June 21.

This is Radford University's third year hosting Boys State, a unique opportunity where participants spend their week learning about American civic principles and participating in a simulation of Virginia local and state government.

Radford University President Penelope W. Kyle, Radford Mayor Bruce Brown and retired Navy Rear Adm. William Cobb are scheduled to speak at the Boys State opening assembly on Sunday night.

Virginia's top administrators - Gov. Terry McAuliffe, Lt. Gov. Ralph Northam and Attorney General Mark Herring – are also scheduled to address attendees during the weeklong program.

While on campus, Boys State attendees will participate in a variety of activities that reflect the rights, privileges, duties and responsibilities of a citizen, including mock legislative sessions, court proceedings, law enforcement presentations and assemblies.

There's plenty of time for fun as well. Attendees will experience several music and recreational programs. They will also have use of the popular Radford University Student Recreation and Wellness Center, which opened in December.

Participants in Boys State are exemplary high school juniors who are selected by Virginia's American Legion posts to attend on the strength of their academics, leadership abilities and citizenship. In many cases, expenses of attending this program are paid by a sponsoring American Legion Post, local business or other community-based organization.

For more information, visit the American Legion Boys State of Virginia website.