Local students elected to office at Boys State

Several local students have been elected to city and state offices as part of the 81st annual session of Arkansas Boys State at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, where students build a mock government structure, including16 mock cities each with their own city council, vice mayor and mayor.

Chet Hudgens of Berryville was elected to City Council for Kelley City, while Caleb Tuckey of Green Forest was elected to City Council for Murphy City and Jack Dignan of Berryville was elected to City Council for Swain City.

“City elections lay the groundwork for the rest of the week at Arkansas Boys State,” said David Saterfield, director of instruction for Arkansas Boys State. “From here, these city officials will lead citizens in their cities as they navigate simulations and city problems, working as their representatives to develop and advocate solutions for their community this week. This is just the first step in the transformative leadership journey that students embark on this week.”

Jack Dignan of Berryville and Alonzo Rangel of Green Forest were elected as state representatives.

“Being elected as an Arkansas Boys State legislator is quite the special opportunity for these students,” Saterfield said. “They’ll get an up close and personal look at the legislative process with their own state legislators leading them through the process.”

The local students join more than 400 students from throughout the state attending Boys State. Students are mock citizens in eight counties, 16 cities and two political parties.

“When the week comes to a close for these students, they will have learned what it means to intentionally and thoughtfully share their stories, lead their peers and advocate for their communities,” said Arkansas Boys State executive director Lloyd Jackson.