McDaniel College Offers Leadership Program for Teens

Week-long program immerses high school students in government and leadership training

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

High school juniors and seniors in Westminster, Maryland can now apply for the Maryland Boys State program, which will be held at McDaniel College from June 21-27. The volunteer-led program offers hands-on training in government and leadership, including mock elections, legislation, and court sessions. Sponsorships are available to ensure cost is not a barrier for participants.

Why it matters

The Maryland Boys State and Girls State programs provide an invaluable opportunity for high school students to gain practical experience in the democratic process and develop essential leadership skills. By immersing teens in a week-long simulation of state and local government, the programs help prepare the next generation of civic-minded leaders.

The details

The Maryland Boys State program is open to high school juniors and seniors in Westminster. During the week-long session at McDaniel College, participants will engage in mock elections, legislative sessions, and court proceedings, gaining hands-on experience in the workings of state and local government. The program is volunteer-led, and sponsorships are available to ensure cost is not a barrier for interested students.

  • The Maryland Boys State program will run from June 21-27, 2026 at McDaniel College in Westminster.
  • The application process for the program is now open.

The players

McDaniel College

A private liberal arts college located in Westminster, Maryland that is hosting the Maryland Boys State program.

Maryland Boys State

A volunteer-led program that immerses high school students in a week-long simulation of state and local government, including mock elections, legislation, and court sessions.

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What’s next

High school juniors and seniors in Westminster interested in participating in the Maryland Boys State program can now submit their applications.

The takeaway

The Maryland Boys State program at McDaniel College provides a unique opportunity for local high school students to develop critical leadership and civic engagement skills through hands-on experience in government processes. With sponsorships available, the program aims to make this valuable experience accessible to all interested students.