The American Legion, Department of Indiana, announces the 73rd session of its Hoosier Boys’ State Program. Applications are now being accepted.

Hoosier Boys’ State is the American Legion’s premiere program in patriotism, citizen responsibility, and the political and democratic process as it is practiced in Indiana.

Again this year, Trine University in Angola will host the weeklong event.

The program runs from June 12 through June 19 this year. It is an intensive “hands-on” study in politics and government. The American Legion calls it “A Week to Shape a Lifetime.”

Delegates will be selected from interested students who are presently juniors with at least one additional semester remaining at their high schools next fall. Successful candidates will be those who have an interest in community involvement and leadership. A high grade-point average is not necessarily a prerequisite; but a responsible demeanor and self-direction are very important.

Look to http://www.hoosierboysstate.org for more information about the qualifications for participation in the program. Interested students should contact their respective high school counselors and building principals with a follow-up contact to their local American Legion post.

Substantial scholarships from area colleges and universities as well as from the American Legion have been awarded: for example, $8,000 from Trine University, $30,000 from Wabash College, $20,000 from the Samsung Corporation, and approximately $10,000 from the Legion.