Photo Caption: Students were elected by their peers to city office on Monday, May 27, as part of the 83rd annual session of Arkansas Boys State, where students build a mock government structure, including sixteen different mock cities each with their own city council, vice mayor, and mayor.
May 28, 2024
Lane Westbrook of Palestine from Palestine-Wheatley Senior High was elected as City Councilman for Lovell City at Arkansas Boys State 2024, a summer leadership and civic engagement experience sponsored by the American Legion.
Westbrook was elected by his peers during city elections on Monday, May 27, as part of the 83rd annual session of Arkansas Boys State, where students build a mock government structure, including sixteen different mock cities each with their own city council, vice mayor, and mayor.
"While the most important role in our democracy is that of citizen, city and county roles are especially important and critical while also being often under-appreciated," said David Saterfield, director of instruction for the program. "At Arkansas Boys State, these offices lay the foundation for the rest of the week and give delegates hands-on and practical experience in leadership and public service.
"Once elected, those officials will be responsible for helping to lead their cities and counties and making decisions that have a real impact on the lives of delegates with whom they share dorms and mealtimes. This is just the first step in the transformative leadership journey that students embark on this week," Saterfield added.
Westbrook is one of more than 540 students from 191 schools throughout the state attending Arkansas Boys State at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway. Students are mock citizens in eight different counties, sixteen cities, and two political parties.
"When the week comes to a close for Lane, he and his peers will have learned what it means to intentionally and thoughtfully share their stories, lead their peers, and advocate for their communities," said Lloyd Jackson, executive director of Arkansas Boys State.
County elections were also held on Monday at Arkansas Boys State. On Tuesday, students will run for the House of Representatives and Senate and begin campaigning for statewide office.
Learn more at arboysstate.org.