DR Student Cole Gifford Represents MA at American Legion Boys Nation

N. Dighton, Massachusetts — Superintendent Bill Runey and Dighton-Rehoboth Regional High School Principal Dustin Demers are proud to recognize DRRHS student Cole Gifford for his selection to represent Massachusetts at the 80th session of American Legion Boys Nation, held July 17-24 at Marymount University in Arlington, Virginia.

Gifford was one of just two students selected from Massachusetts to participate in the prestigious national program, joining 99 other incoming high school seniors representing 49 states and the District of Columbia.
American Legion Boys Nation provides participants with an immersive experience in American government and civic leadership. Students serve as “senators” and gain firsthand experience with the functions of the U.S. Senate and federal government while participating in elections, legislative activities, debates, and other elements of the democratic process.

“Cole’s selection to Boys Nation is an extraordinary accomplishment, but for those of us who know him, it is not a surprising one,” Superintendent Runey said. “What makes Cole particularly special is that his interest in leadership and government is grounded in a genuine desire to serve. He is currently pursuing a Congressional nomination to the United States Naval Academy with the goal of ultimately serving our country as a commissioned officer. Whether it is representing Massachusetts at Boys Nation, serving his school and community, or pursuing that larger calling, Cole consistently demonstrates a willingness to step forward and contribute to something greater than himself. That is leadership, and it makes all of us at DR incredibly proud.”

Gifford has established himself as a leader throughout the DRRHS community. He has served as a Peer Leader, Green and Gold Ambassador, and Student Representative, while also being elected Vice President of the Portuguese Club and Class of 2027 Vice President. His commitment to service extends beyond school through his volunteer work with the Swansea Ambulance Corps, and he has also volunteered on campus, including helping to refurbish and repaint the DRRHS weight room.

“Cole is an exemplar of the values and work ethic we strive to impart into all of our students here at DRRHS” Principal Demers said. “Not only is Cole accomplished, he is also extremely humble. His default setting is to help others and to work to make his community a better place. Boys Nation could not have selected a better representative of Dighton-Rehoboth and the Commonwealth.”

Gifford is also an accomplished student-athlete. He has earned varsity letters in football and track and field, was the 2025 & 2026 South Coast Conference Champion in the javelin, earned SCC All-Star honors, and was selected as a captain of the DRRHS track and field team. He previously represented Dighton-Rehoboth at New Balance Nationals Outdoor, placing 12th nationally in the freshman division.

Gifford’s experience at Boys Nation complements his growing interest in public service and leadership as he works toward his goal of earning a Congressional nomination and appointment to the United States Naval Academy.

“Representing Massachusetts at Boys Nation was an incredible honor, and learning alongside 99 outstanding young leaders from across the country reinforced my desire to serve something larger than myself,” Gifford said. “My goal is to become an officer in the United States Navy, and this experience strengthened my commitment to serving and defending the American people. I would not have been prepared for this opportunity without the teachers, administrators and mentors at Dighton-Rehoboth who have empowered me and helped shape me as a student, leader and person.”

The American Legion has conducted Boys Nation annually since 1946. Participants are selected through Boys State programs held throughout the country, with two students from each participating state advancing to Boys Nation.

“This is one of those moments when the words ‘We Are DR’ carry a little extra meaning,” Runey said. “Cole traveled to our nation’s capital representing Massachusetts, but he also carried Dighton-Rehoboth with him. We could not be prouder of the young man he has become. His ambition to serve our country speaks volumes about his character, and I am confident that the leadership, discipline and sense of purpose he has already demonstrated will continue to open doors for him.”