On February 20, 2025, the Baltimore Area Council came together at the Boumi Shriners Temple in Rosedale for the annual Volunteer Recognition Banquet. This event, hosted by Tom Rodgers, co-anchor at FOX 45, served as a tribute to the dedicated volunteers and chartered partners who make an impact on the lives of thousands of Scouts across Central Maryland.
The evening featured inspiring speeches, well-deserved awards, and a celebration of the selfless service that fuels the Scouting movement.
Class of 2024 Silver Beavers
Silver Beaver Class of 2024 🦫
These seven outstanding volunteers represent the very best of Scouting, leading by example and inspiring the next generation.
Nathan Beil (Council)
A former Baltimore Area Council President (2022-2024), Nathan played a pivotal role in securing corporate partnerships and funding that have led to major improvements at Broad Creek Memorial Scout Reservation. His leadership was instrumental in bringing fiber-optic internet to camp, renovating Cole Lodge, and overseeing infrastructure upgrades. An Eagle Scout, professional engineer, and dedicated Scouter, Nathan’s expertise continues to benefit Scouting long after his presidency.
Miner L. “Moe” Brown
(Ft. McHenry District)
With over 70 years of service, Moe Brown is a Scouting legend who has mentored generations of Scouts and leaders across five councils. The first Eagle Scout from his troop in Cleveland, NY, Moe has been an active Commissioner, training leader, and Scouting advocate. His dedication extends beyond Scouting, as he also volunteers with Habitat for Humanity, AARP’s Safe Driver program, and interfaith organizations. His father, a Silver Beaver recipient, would be proud to see Moe continue the tradition of lifelong service.
Matthew A. Cook
(National Pike District)
A U.S. Air Force veteran, Matt Cook has brought global Scouting experience to Maryland, guiding Scouts on high-adventure treks to Philmont, Sea Base, and Northern Tier. His service as Scoutmaster of Troop 424, Order of the Arrow leader, and training chair has helped shape countless young leaders. Recognized for his commitment with multiple awards, Matt is also a mentor to future Eagle Scouts, many of whom credit him for their success.
Daniel G. Lentz
(National Pike District)
As Baltimore Area Council’s Commissioner, Dan has strengthened unit support, championed year-round camping at Broad Creek, and led council policy efforts. An Eagle Scout and former Executive Board member, he played a key role in navigating national bankruptcy challenges and ensuring chartered partner relations remained strong. A 2024 Vigil Honor recipient, Dan’s strategic leadership continues to shape the success of the council.
David Marks
(Gunpowder Falls District)
An Eagle Scout, county councilman, and lifelong community advocate, David Marks has led the charge in expanding Scouting programs. As a former Dulaney District Chair, his leadership helped achieve key quality benchmarks, and he continues to support Scouting at the district and council level. His passion for public service has made a lasting impact on youth and his local community.
Bruce McPherson
(River Hawk District)
Bruce is a tireless advocate for Scouting, serving as a Unit Commissioner, District Camping Chair, and Philmont Ambassador. His efforts have ensured top-tier camping programs, and he personally helped secure new chartered partners for displaced units. A Vigil Honor member and retired U.S. Army officer, Bruce embodies the spirit of service and leadership.
Richard L. Seitz, Jr.
(River Hawk District)
Richard has played a crucial role in Broad Creek’s maintenance and development, leveraging his expertise to repair camp roads and infrastructure. A dedicated Scoutmaster, OA leader, and former firefighter-paramedic, Richard’s hands-on efforts have directly enhanced the camping experience for thousands of Scouts. His legacy of service continues to shape the future of outdoor programs.
Chartered Partner of the Year
Chartered Partner of the Year:
The Archdiocese of Baltimore
Scouting is only possible with strong community partners, and the 2024 Chartered Partner of the Year, the Archdiocese of Baltimore, has been a pillar of support for over a century.
🏆 The Archdiocese of Baltimore charters 83 Packs, Troops, and Crews, serving over 2,400 youth and 1,200 adult volunteers across the region. Their commitment to faith-based character development and service is reflected in their tremendous impact, including:
✅ 5,329 service hours contributed by Scouts
✅ 43 Eagle Scout projects completed, benefiting Catholic communities
✅ 422 Scouts engaged in service initiatives
✅ Over $44,274 in economic impact from Scouting projects
Their dedication to Scouting ensures that more youth have access to leadership opportunities, outdoor experiences, and moral development. We deeply appreciate their continued partnership in fostering youth growth and community service.
Distinguished Commissioner Service Award
Recognizing Our Distinguished Commissioners
The Distinguished Commissioner Service Award is the highest recognition given to a Commissioner who has gone above and beyond in providing outstanding service to youth, units, and districts. These individuals are the backbone of Scouting, ensuring that units receive the guidance and support needed to thrive.
Distinguished Commissioner Service Award Recipients 🏅
✔️ Kim Aspden (Arrowhead District) – A dedicated leader who has provided unparalleled support to units, ensuring that Scouting programs remain strong and impactful.
✔️ Jon Bealer (Gunpowder Falls District) – A seasoned Commissioner who is committed to mentoring leaders and helping units overcome challenges.
✔️ Todd Emmons (Gunpowder Falls District) – Known for his hands-on approach to Scouting service, ensuring that units in his district thrive.
✔️ Brian McGivern (National Pike District) – A champion for Scouting growth and training, playing a key role in supporting unit leaders and developing strong programs.
Commissioners are the frontline support system for Scouting, and their dedication helps empower leaders, engage youth, and ensure the success of every unit they serve.
Top Popcorn Sellers
Top Popcorn Sellers: Fueling Scouting Adventures!
Each year, our Scouts work hard to sell popcorn, raising funds that support their troops, camps, and activities. These young entrepreneurs develop sales skills, goal-setting abilities, and leadership experience—all while helping their units thrive.
🏆 2024 Baltimore Area Council’s Top Popcorn Sellers
🥇 Alana Brown (Pack 234, Harford District) – $26,628 sold!
🥈 Roman Johnson (Pack 234, Harford District) – $10,405 sold!
🥉 Aubrianna Hendershot (Pack 454, River Hawk District) – $9,987 sold!
These incredible Scouts set a shining example of hard work, perseverance, and commitment to their goals. Their efforts not only support their units but also contribute to the success of Scouting in our council.
Congratulations to our Top Sellers and all Scouts who participated in this year’s popcorn sale!
Alumnus of the Year
Alumnus of the Year: J.D. Urbach II
The Scouting America Council Alumnus of the Year Award is the highest recognition given to a Scouting alumnus at the council level, honoring individuals who continue to embody the values of Scouting while making significant contributions to their communities.
🏆 J.D. Urbach II, this year’s recipient, has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to service, leadership, and strengthening Scouting programs. As Chair of the Baltimore Area Council’s NESA & Alumni Committee, he has played a key role in engaging Eagle Scout alumni, fostering mentorship opportunities, and supporting the next generation of leaders.
His dedication to Scouting’s mission extends far beyond his youth, as he continues to uplift, connect, and inspire others to give back to the program that shaped them.
Congratulations to J.D. Urbach II on this well-deserved honor! 🎉
District Achievement Award
District Achievement Awards: Recognizing Excellence in Scouting Leadership
The District Achievement Award was established by the Baltimore Area Council to recognize districts that have met key benchmarks in delivering high-quality Scouting programs. These districts have demonstrated strong leadership, membership growth, outstanding unit support, and exceptional community impact.
🏆 2024 District Achievement Award Recipients
🏅 Arrowhead District
🏅 Carroll District
🏅 National Pike District
🏅 River Hawk District
These districts have excelled in membership recruitment, volunteer engagement, program delivery, and community service—ensuring that youth across Central Maryland have access to the best possible Scouting experience.
Congratulations to the dedicated volunteers, commissioners, and district leadership teams who worked tirelessly to achieve this honor and continue to grow and strengthen Scouting in their communities!
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