The James R. Thompson Medal and $1000 scholarship was established in 1990 in honor of the 39th Governor of Illinois upon his retirement.  It is awarded annually to the Governor of Boys State.

2005 Winner - Josh Boykin - Rockford

2004 Winner - William Thorndike - Morrison

2003 Winner - Curt Rendall - Winthrop Harbor

2002 Winner - David Wiest - Mapleton

2001 Winner - Kevin Maliszewski - Glen Carbon

2000 Winner - Christopher Hightower - Danville

1999 Winner - John Feeney - Monticello

1998 Winner - Langston Hughes - Waukegan

1997 Winner - Frank James Harts, III - Rock Falls

1996 Winner - Sean Stephenson - LaGrange