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South Dakota Boys State

South Dakota Boys State

A statement from our Boys State Director

2025 staff picture

Welcome from the American Legion, Department of South Dakota Boys State. The 83rd session will be held on the campus of Northern State University in Aberdeen, SD from May 25-29, 2026 and we are expecting up to 300 delegates to attend the session.

This website is dedicated to broaden the understanding of the program for high school juniors/seniors and their parents. By providing information about the program, how the American Legion funds it and documenting the activities during the session with an active media team providing photos and videos of events.

The American Legion, Department of South Dakota Boys State program is supported by a large team of dedicated volunteers. This is a necessity to deliver the program to South Dakota’s brightest high school juniors/seniors. It all starts at your local American Legion Post. Without the hard work of our Legion Members the Boys State Program would be non-existent. Their efforts, along with Boys State volunteers, combine to work throughout the year to organize the program and guide the delegates through the session.

Doug Harris
Boys State Director
South Dakota American Legion

View Program Information

Testimonials

“I just wanted to thank you for everything, last year at Boys State was the best week of my life. I wish everyone could go to Boys State, but I guess that’s what makes it so special. I will never forget the boys from Dallas.”

—Hans Lapka (2022)

“Without you, I would not have been able to meet so many great friends and participate in some of the most fun I’ve had in a long time. Here, I was a blank slate, I could be who I wanted to be and everyone was so receptive and kind.”

—Shane Callahan (2025)

“I wanted to mention the excellent opportunities, and experiences from this years Boys State. Boys State was genuinely a highlight of my life so far. The Legionnaires and staff put in so much for this event and it shows. Some of the connections I have made this week feel deeper than many bonds I’ve gained in school or other ventures.”

—Nathan Plotkin (2025)

“This experience is unlike anything I have done before. Here, I experienced failure, and from every failure I rose. I made new friends, and I grew with them. I applied myself and got results from it. Most importantly, I grew my character. Boys State gave me experiences I won’t soon forget and helped me grow permanently. I just wanted you to know, as a graduating Boys Stater, that this experience is life changing and will shape the rest of my life.”

—Shah Singh (2025)

“Thank you so much! Boys State has been life changing. I had so much fun and the friends I made will hold forever!”

—Lewis Carlyle (2025)

“Thank you for your contributions to allow today’s youth in South Dakota to attend Boys State. This experience has shaped my future and character like none other. I have no doubt that it has shaped most others as well.”

—Tyler Mueller (2025)