Jim Hill JROTC Cadet to Represent Mississippi at Boys Nation
June 6, 2018
Cadet Ruben Banks |
Jim Hill High School JROTC cadet and rising senior Ruben Banks was elected governor during the recent American Legion Boys State conducted May 27–June 2 at the University of Mississippi. Banks will represent Mississippi at the upcoming Boys Nation to be held July 20–28 in Washington, D.C.
In 2016, Banks was selected as the top student at the Military Order of World Wars Youth Leadership Conference held in Huntsville, Alabama. In 2017, he completed a prestigious Engineering program with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Vicksburg, Mississippi. Recently, the Federal Emergency Management Agency selected Banks to serve on its 15-member national Youth Preparedness Council. The Jackson Free Press highlighted Banks as an Amazing Teen for 2018.
"Cadet Banks is truly an exceptional young scholar," said JPS JROTC Director Paul Willis. We salute him as a shining example of excellence."
Banks along with 14 other male cadets from JPS joined over 200 other rising seniors at the recent Mississippi Boys State. Boys State is the premier leadership program for rising high school seniors. in Mississippi and 48 other states across the U.S. Delegates learn about government, leadership, and service. They are then challenged to put their knowledge into practice.
Cadet Ruben Banks meets Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant at Boys State held at Ole Miss from May 27–June 2.
Cadet Ruben Banks meets Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant at Boys State held at Ole Miss from May 27–June 2. |
Along the way, delegates hear from elected state leaders, prepare for college, and make friendships that will last a lifetime. Delegates also compete for election to various local, county and state government positions. The top two representatives from each of the 49 Boys States represent their state at Boys Nation in D.C. There, the young leaders receive an education on the structure and function of the federal government.
At the event, each delegate acts as a senator from his Boys State. The young lawmakers' caucus at the beginning of the session organizes into committees and conducts hearings on bills submitted by program delegates. Senators learn the proper method of handling bills, according to U.S. Senate rules.
Participation in the political process is emphasized throughout the week. Participants organize party conventions and nominate and elect a president and vice president. Training includes lectures, and forums. Delegates also visit federal agencies, national shrines, memorials and historical sites. On Capitol Hill, Boys Nation senators meet with elected officials from their home states.
Since Boys Nation began in 1946, many of its graduates have been elected to public office, including presidents, congressmen, state governors and state legislators. Many others have been inspired to work for the campaigns of individuals seeking public office.