American Legion Tar Heel Boys State
Tar Heel Boys State is a premier leadership action program for rising high school seniors. It is an intensive, one-week “learning-by-doing” workshop held each summer where students from across North Carolina come together to build a mock government from the ground up. Most college admissions offices, especially the military service academies, look very favorably upon Boys State attendees.
Post 6 Key Details
- Dates: June 21 – June 27, 2026
- Location: Chowan University, Murfreesboro, NC
- Cost: $500 (Please note: Post 6 may be able to provide financial assistance to help defray this cost for selected students).
- Application Deadline: March 20, 2026
Post 6 Past Participants
- 2025 – 6
- 2024 – 3
- 2023 – 3
The Purpose
Founded on the belief that “Democracy must be learned by each generation,” the program’s primary goal is to educate our youth in the duties, privileges, and responsibilities of American citizenship. Participants (called “Citizens”) learn:
- Practical Government: The actual mechanics of city, county, and state government.
- Civic Leadership: How to lead with integrity, build coalitions, and solve community problems.
- Patriotism: A deeper appreciation for American traditions and the sacrifices made to protect our democracy.
How the Program is Run
The program is not a classroom lecture series; it is a fully immersive simulation.
- Two-Party System: Upon arrival, delegates are assigned to one of two mythical political parties: the Federalists or the Nationalists.
- Elections & Mock Government: Citizens hold party caucuses, develop platforms, and run campaigns for various offices—ranging from City Council to Governor.
- Legislation & Courts: Elected officials perform the actual duties of their office. Legislators draft and debate bills, while those in the judicial branch conduct mock trials and court proceedings.
- State-to-National Path: At the conclusion of the week, two outstanding delegates are selected as “Senators” to represent North Carolina at American Legion Boys Nation in Washington, D.C.
Prominent Alumni
The impact of Boys State is best seen in its alumni, many of whom have shaped American history, sports, and culture. Famous attendees include:
- Bill Clinton (Former U.S. President)
- Michael Jordan (NBA Legend and NC native)
- Neil Armstrong (First man on the moon)
- Tom Brokaw (Journalist and Author)
- Samuel Alito (U.S. Supreme Court Justice)
- Jon Bon Jovi & Bruce Springsteen (Rock legends)
Learn More & Apply
For more information on the upcoming session, including application deadlines and program details, please visit the official website:
Official Tar Heel Boys State Website
