Minnesota Boys' State

Vision and Impact

For the past five years, I've dedicated a week each June to helping shape the next generation of civic leaders through Minnesota Boys' State. This unique program brings together 300 of Minnesota's most promising high school juniors for an immersive experience in democracy and governance.

Leadership Role

As a Lead City Counselor, I guide delegates through the intricate process of building a government from the ground up. My role combines:

• Direct mentorship of 30 delegates as they navigate political processes
• Strategic coordination of camp-wide logistics and activities
• Technical innovation to modernize program operations

Technical Contributions

My passion for both civic engagement and technology led me to revolutionize key aspects of the program:

• Developed and deployed a new digital voting system that reduced vote counting time by 10 hours
• Currently building a legislative bill management system to streamline the mock state legislature
• Created digital tools to enhance delegate engagement and program efficiency

The Boys' State Experience

What makes this program special is watching delegates transform their understanding of democracy through hands-on experience:

• Creating and operating city, county, and state governments
• Engaging in bipartisan political discourse and coalition building
• Learning practical leadership skills through real-world scenarios
• Developing public speaking and debate abilities

Personal Growth

Each year at Boys' State reinforces my belief in the power of civic education and mentorship. Watching delegates grow from uncertain teenagers to confident leaders in just one week continues to be one of my most rewarding experiences. The program has taught me invaluable lessons about:

• Effective leadership in high-pressure situations
• The importance of creating spaces for constructive political dialogue
• How technology can enhance traditional educational experiences
• The lasting impact of dedicated mentorship

Through my continued involvement with Boys' State, I've found a perfect intersection of my technical skills, leadership abilities, and passion for civic engagement. It's a reminder that technology and public service can work hand in hand to create meaningful change.