Hillsdale College to Host American Legion Michigan Boys State
Rising high school seniors will learn about state and local government and then form and participate in a mock government of their own.
HILLSDALE, Mich. — Hillsdale College will host the American Legion Michigan Boys State June 21-27, 2026. Young men going into their senior year of high school will come together on Hillsdale’s campus to learn about state and local government and then form and participate in a mock government of their own.
“At Hillsdale we seek to educate people for the prudent deliberation and courageous action that a free government requires of its citizens,” said Rich Péwé, chief administrative officer. “Boys state prepares young men to lead well, and it is an honor to partner with the American Legion to support this program.”
“Boys state prepares young men to lead well.”
In its 90th year, Boys State will bring together delegates from across the state of Michigan. They will learn about the structure and processes of local and state government and participate in mock elections, legislation, law enforcement, and court proceedings, as well as recreational activities.
Hillsdale’s educational resources and reputation for sound civic education attracted Michigan Boys State to the College.
“Hillsdale College has long been a teacher and defender of free government and citizen virtue,” said Mark Brejcha, director of the Michigan Boys State. “We’re excited about bringing America’s premier national civics leadership program to the campus of Hillsdale College. We look forward to using the College’s professors, free online courses, and other educational resources to make Michigan Boys State the benchmark for the nation.”
“We look forward to using the College’s professors, free online courses, and other educational resources to make Michigan Boys State the benchmark for the nation.”
Two delegates from each Boys State program are selected to participate in Boys Nation in Washington, D.C. At Boys Nation, they learn about the structure and function of the federal government, visit federal agencies and important sites in the capital, meet with elected officials from their home states, and take on the role of senators in mock sessions and conventions.
- More information about Boys State and Boys Nation
- More information about Michigan Boys State
- Photos of Hillsdale College
- High-resolution copy of the Hillsdale College clocktower logo
About The American Legion
The American Legion is the largest wartime veterans service organization with nearly two million members in 12,875 posts in communities across America. Chartered by Congress in 1919, The American Legion is committed to mentoring youth and sponsoring wholesome programs in our communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting a strong national security, and continued devotion to our fellow servicemembers and veterans.