American Legion Boys Nation Elects First Kentucky President from Owensboro
David Daniel II is an unstoppable 17-year-old student at Owensboro High School. As a Junior last year, he was Class President, 2023 Regional Academic Team Champion, President of the OHS National Honor Society, founder and president of the OHS debate team, and kills it as a musician in the band Krown.
He hasn't slowed down a bit this summer either, attending the Yale Young Global Scholars Program, and the United States Youth Senate Program as one of two delegates from Kentucky.
The cherry on top of his ridiculously impressive resume happened this week as David made history when he was elected to serve as the 2023 President of The American Legion Boys Nation. In the 77 years of this organization, he is the first Kentuckian to ever be elected to this position. In other words, this is a VERY big deal.
As the current American Legion Boys State Governor of the Kentucky chapter, he was selected to attend the National program in Washington D.C. Considered one of the most selective educational opportunities in the country, delegates learn about the inner workings of the Federal government.
The American Legion describes the program, "At the event, each delegate acts as a senator from his Boys State. The young lawmakers caucus at the beginning of the session, then organize into committees and conduct 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, including the organization of party conventions and nominating and electing a president and vice president.
The week of government training also includes lectures, forums, and visits to federal agencies, national shrines, institutions, memorials, and historical sites. On Capitol Hill, Boys Nation senators meet with elected officials from their home states."
Traditionally, the delegates take private tours of the White House and meet the President of the United States. The list of Boys Nation alumni reads like a "who's who" of America. Many students who have graduated from the program go on to become elected officials, news correspondents, and other notable figures. Some of these include President Bill Clinton, Bill Gates, and Tom Brokaw.
David will return to finish his Senior year at OHS and then plans to continue his education at Yale University to obtain a law degree. Remember his name, folks. We will be seeing a lot of it as he continues to forge the way in his very bright future.
This is how I will always think of David (or Davey.) He starred in a production I directed at Theatre Workshop back when he was a little bitty thing. I think what makes him special is not only his work ethic in accomplishing great things but the fact that he truly cares for others. He is so loved by everyone around him because of his kindness, sense of humor, and authenticity. To have his humble confidence and charisma at such a young age is truly magnetic. We will all be saying, " I knew him when."
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