Governor Patrick Morrisey, West Virginia’s 36th Governor, delivers a closing address to the Citizens of The American Legion Mountaineer Boys State. Drawing on decades of public service, he shares leadership lessons and a call to serve with conviction.
Senator Shelley Moore Capito addresses The American Legion Mountaineer Boys State, sharing her experiences as West Virginia’s first female U.S. Senator and her guidance on public service, responsibility, and community leadership.
The American Legion Mountaineer Boys State is honored to welcome two respected leaders from West Virginia University to speak to this year’s Citizens: Dr. E. Gordon Gee, outgoing WVU President, and Dr. Jorge H. Atiles, Dean and Associate Vice President for WVU Extension and Land-Grant Engagement. Together, they represent decades of experience in public service, education, and leadership—and they bring with them a message of hope, empowerment, and community engagement.
Dr. E. Gordon Gee is one of the most recognized and enduring figures in American higher education. Having served as president of more universities than anyone in U.S. history—including West Virginia University (twice), The Ohio State University, Vanderbilt University, Brown University, and the University of Colorado—Dr. Gee’s legacy is built on visionary leadership, accessibility, and a deep passion for student success.
As he concludes his second presidency at WVU in June 2025, Dr. Gee leaves behind a legacy that includes academic innovation, the elevation of WVU to R1 research status, and expanded outreach through the university’s land-grant mission. Beyond academia, Dr. Gee has been a devoted supporter of youth leadership and civic education, including years of involvement with The American Legion Mountaineer Boys State program.
At ALMBS, Dr. Gee has regularly inspired Citizens with his wisdom, humor, and call to lead with purpose and humility. His enduring message: leadership is about service, integrity, and asking the right questions.
Source: WVU College of Law – E. Gordon Gee
Dr. Jorge H. Atiles serves as WVU’s Associate Vice President for Land-Grant Engagement and Dean of WVU Extension. A key architect of the university’s statewide impact, Dr. Atiles oversees a vast array of initiatives that touch all 55 counties—from agriculture and 4-H youth development to family and community advancement.
Since joining WVU in 2020, Dr. Atiles has been a catalyst for transformation within Extension and the broader land-grant mission. With prior leadership roles at Oklahoma State University and the University of Georgia, and a doctoral degree from Virginia Tech, his academic and professional journey reflects a lifelong commitment to service, education, and empowering communities.
Dr. Atiles’ presence at ALMBS reflects WVU’s commitment to youth development. His leadership underscores the belief that young people—especially those learning civic responsibility at Boys State—are essential to shaping the future of West Virginia.
Kris Warner serves as West Virginia’s 31st Secretary of State, elected in November 2024. A sixth-generation West Virginian from Charleston, Warner has built his career around public service and economic development. Before taking office, he was appointed by President Donald J. Trump in 2017 as the State Director for USDA Rural Development, where he oversaw more than $1.2 billion in investment toward infrastructure, housing, and broadband across the Mountain State.
In 2021, Warner was appointed Executive Director of the West Virginia Economic Development Authority by Governor Jim Justice, managing over $2 billion in funding to stimulate industry growth. He has also served as Chairman of the West Virginia Republican Party and as the state’s National Committeeman to the Republican National Committee.
A graduate of West Virginia University, Warner and his wife Joyce—a public school teacher—are proud parents of five children, all with service ties to the United States Air Force Academy, and have four grandchildren. As Secretary of State, Warner remains committed to election integrity, government transparency, and fostering a business-friendly climate in West Virginia.
Source: West Virginia Secretary of State Official Website – Kris Warner Biography
Brace yourselves for a life-changing opportunity you do not want to miss. Get ready to dive headfirst into one of the most respected and exclusive leadership academies available to rising high school seniors in the United States.
The American Legion Mountaineer Boys State (ALMBS) is not your typical classroom experience. This is a hands-on, fully immersive government simulation where YOU take charge of local, county, and state operations — from passing laws and arguing cases to managing emergency services and publishing news.
Held June 8–14, 2025 at WVU Jackson’s Mill – the original home since 1936.
This isn’t just camp — it’s a launchpad:
✅ Take on real roles in state, county, and city government
✅ Choose your path: Politics, Law, Journalism, Banking, Emergency Services, Law Enforcement, Corrections, Forensics, Homeland Security, or Business & Marketing
✅ Network with top students from across West Virginia
✅ Gain an edge for college, scholarships, and service academies
Limited spots remain! Don’t miss your chance to step into leadership, make lifelong friends, and stand out on every future application.
Founded in 1935 in response to socialist youth movements, the Boys State program is a proud American tradition with deep roots in civic education. The West Virginia chapter, ALMBS, is the second oldest in the nation and still held at its original location — a legacy unlike any other.
The program is sponsored by American Legion Posts, businesses, and community groups. Most Citizens attend at no personal cost. All you need to bring is your commitment to learn, lead, and make your mark.
So — are you ready to take your place in history?
Learn more and apply today at https://wvboysstate.org