Other Than Work

American Legion Texas Boys State

My journey with Boys State started the year I attended the program, 1981.  I was a delegate from the Austin area and fell in love with the program from day one.  Boys State is a citizenship and leadership camp for juniors in high school.  In one week, approximately 1000 Statesmen form a mythical 51st state of the union.  Political parties are formed and organized and a mock elections take place.  All driven and conducted by the students themselves.  The motto is, "Learn By Doing," and that is exactly what they do.

I returned in 1982 to serve as a counselor and have returned every year since.  I have served the program in many capacities from City Counselor in charge of 40 to 44 Statesmen, to Chairman of the program.  During my time as Chairman, the executive staff and I, increased attendance from less than 700 to more than 1100.  I am currently serving on the Executive Staff as an Assistant Director. 

Being a part of this program has been my honor.  I am privileged to serve with some the finest people Texas has to offer.  From military veterans, doctors, lawyers, educators, and other professionals, my association with everyone of them has enriched my life.  Most importantly, together we have hopefully inspired a number of young men along the way. 

Every year I am lucky to be surrounded by the finest students the State of Texas has to offer.  Meeting these incredible young people always gives me hope for our future.  Too often, in our everyday lives, it is easy to get discouraged by news reports and the condition of our society.  This program allows me to meet the best we have to offer.  Many of the young men that attend, go on to accomplished careers.  It is my hope that the program helped them along the way.  

More information about the program can be seen at www.texasboysstate.com and also from a documentary film in 2018 called Boys State.  It is available through Apple TV.