GENTRY, AR — Gentry High School senior Titus Cable recently completed the 85th Annual Arkansas Boys State, a prestigious leadership and civic engagement program that brought together outstanding student delegates from across the state.

Hosted at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, with activities also taking place at the Arkansas State Capitol in Little Rock, Arkansas Boys State provides high school students with a hands-on opportunity to learn about government, leadership, and public service.

Throughout the week-long program, Cable served as a citizen of the fictitious Sherwood City in Gordon County. He participated in elections, legislative sessions, government simulations, leadership development activities, Schools of Instruction, recreational events, and Capitol Day at the State Capitol. The immersive experience allowed him to gain firsthand knowledge of how local and state governments function and the role civic leaders play in serving their communities.

Arkansas Boys State, sponsored by the American Legion Department of Arkansas, has been developing future leaders since 1940. More than 60,000 young men have participated in the program over its 85-year history, joining an extensive network of alumni that includes elected officials, military leaders, business professionals, and community advocates.

The 2026 program was centered on the theme, “Democracy Depends on Me,” encouraging participants to take an active role in strengthening their communities and contributing to the future of democratic government.