89th Alabama Boys State: Future Leaders Put Government Into Practice

Nearly 600 rising high school seniors gathered at the University of Alabama this summer for the American Legion’s Alabama Boys State program, a weeklong simulation of state and local government designed to inspire civic leadership. On a visit to the Alabama State Capitol, Alabama Public Television’s Todd Stacey sat down with newly elected Boys State Governor William Ellard and Lieutenant Governor Will Burgess to discuss their experiences.

The two student leaders reflect on the challenges of campaigning, the responsibility that comes with elected office, and the lessons they learned about leadership and public service. They also share the policy ideas that resonated with their peers, including rural healthcare, education reform, crime reduction, economic growth, and the future of a state lottery.

Their conversation offers a glimpse into the priorities of Alabama’s next generation of leaders and highlights the enduring impact of a program that has helped shape young citizens for nearly 90 years.

Host Bob Nance brings us the story for Tennessee Valley Mornings.