Wisconsin American Legion Cancels Badger Boys State 2020
A longtime staple of summer on the Ripon College campus will not take place this year because of COVID-19. Robert Batty, chairman of Badger Boys State, announced today that the 2020 session of the annual mock-government program has been canceled.
The annual mock-government program for high school boys from throughout Wisconsin is sponsored by the Wisconsin American Legion. Ripon College has been the host site for Badger Boys State for more than 75 years.
Zach Messitte, president of Ripon College, said, “Ripon College is synonymous with Badger Boys State. We are proud to have been the program’s host for more than 75 years. While the current public health emergency has forced the cancellation of this year’s program, we look forward to 2021 and all the years to come.”
Batty’s statement follows:
“With the recommendation of the medical and political leaders in our community, the Board of Directors of Badger Boys State agreed that it was necessary to cancel Badger Boys State this year, originally scheduled June 13–20, 2020.
“The health and safety of our participants, staff, and volunteers will always be our top priority, and with the growing concern of the COVID-19 pandemic, cancelling the session for this year is the right decision.
“Thank you to the staff, volunteers, and Board members who have spent a significant amount of time and effort preparing this year’s program. Their dedication and investment is inspiring, and it is unfortunate that their hard work will be delayed until next year.
“Although we are disappointed that our 2020 session will not take place, the longevity of the program will not be damaged. We are committed to continuing this tradition and providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience to our participants for many years to come. We look forward to a spectacular, educational, and fulfilling 79th session in 2021.
“Should you have any questions regarding the cancellation of our program, please direct them to [email protected].”