By: Joss Huesca Peralta (#0690)

For the second time in the American Legion New York Boys State, the Department  Commander has taken on another role as city counselor, while juggling all of his jobs as Department Commander.

Koster is not just checking emails and making phone calls as the President of Boys State, he’s rewriting what leadership really means and entails. 

It is not common to see the Department Commander take on two roles, let alone three. In spite of this, Koster sees it as a way to serve on every level and many can view his jobs as overwhelming, but he embraces it.

Koster oversees much of the behind-the-scenes here at Boys State and ensures that the program runs smoothly. His routine usually consists of meetings, managing logistics, and delivering inspiring speeches to the youth about growth and leadership. The youth is what keeps Koster to continue working at Boy State. 

“I enjoy working with the youth,” he said with a smile. “My goal is to give back to our future leaders by sharing my knowledge and leadership experiences.”

Those are insights that he shared consisted of his beliefs on what a leader conveys.

“Strong leaders speak last. They never take credit for the good things that happen. If something does go wrong they should take full responsibility,” he said. Leadership isn’t about one person, instead it is someone who is a representation of many. Leaders should be able to inspire, motivate, and listen to people. 

“Leaders can also make mistakes,” he added. “Making mistakes is a sign of learning and growing, if you’re not repeating the same ones.” If a leader truly wanted to grow, they would take the time to learn from their mistakes. Learn what they can do better to achieve better outcomes or become the best version of themselves. If one finds themselves making the same mistake it can be seen as you’re not putting in any work to better yourself. 

Despite Koster’s confidence and charisma, he admits that he was nervous taking on these roles. This role required an extensive election and responsibilities in fundraising, administrations, and more.

“I was nervous,” Koster said. “But I knew the message I wanted to send.”

And for those who questioned whether he could juggle so many titles at once, Koster said that the initial reaction was positive. Many were glad to see a highly respected official with much dedication come back to influence the boys at Boys State.

If Koster were to sum the experience and impact that Boy State has on young men, it would be, “You never go back to your original shape.” In other words, the education on leadership, growth, and civic duty here at Boys State will mold you to uphold yourself to your highest potential.