National Duty to God Award Recipients

2025 Recipients

John C. Hanson:

John is a servant leader grounded by his faith in God. His life exemplifies Scouting’s Duty to God. Scouting and the nation are better by his lifelong spirit of service and generosity. He has been in Scouting America for over 50 years and became an Eagle Scout as a youth. He served his faith, Church of Christ, Scientist as their representative to the National Religious Relationship Committee for many years.

He serves as the Summit’s “Chaplaincy Visionary Advocate”. He has given generously to support the advancement of the Summit’s “Duty to God” program. He is passionate for the Duty to God program to reach Scouts of all faiths and particularly those Scouts not associated with any traditional faith community. He has attended seven Jamborees and has served as in the Duty to God Exhibits, as a Headquarters’ Chaplain, and as a Base Camp Chaplain.

He has served as a Cubmaster and Scoutmaster, District Chairman and an Area Vice President in his council. He has funded the updating and printing of the revised version of “Higher Than Eagles” a devotional book for Scouts. His council, National Capital Area, has recognized him with the Silver Beaver Award and he has also received the protestant God and Service Award. He is an active Rotarian and a Sunday School teacher. John is a person of vision, faith, and integrity. He is serious about Scouting and Scouting’s commitment to the foundational principle of Duty to God, promoting and modeling this high value that our program embraces.

Susan Lawyer:

Susan’s unwavering dedication to faith and youth development has a profound impact on countless lives across the nation through her extensive service and leadership. She serves on the National Religious Relationships Committee as the Chair of the Training Sub-Committee. Her committee partners with religious groups and chaplains to promote faith-based training at the Philmont Training Center, the Summit, and Sea Base. She is also responsible for exhibiting and promoting Duty to God at the National Jamboree and National Annual Meetings.

Susan promoted the online chaplain training course, developed by the training subcommittee alongside representatives of many different faith groups, which supports the vital roles of the “Faithful 3”, the Chartered Organization Representative, the Chaplain and the Chaplain’s Aide. She is certified as a Scouting Ministry Specialist for the United Methodist Church. She was co-chair at Philmont Training Center’s Religious Relationships Week and has served as the Course Director for the United Methodist Week. She was also co-chair for the virtual Religious Relationships Week recently held across the nation.

She is primary staff for the national virtual Zoom Protestant Religious Emblems Awards program. She is actively involved in Girl Scouts of the USA. Susan also serves as an at large member and Scouting representative on the board of the General Commission of United Methodist Men. The United Methodist Church has recognized her with the National Silver Torch Award. She exemplifies the spirit of the National Duty to God Award through her lifelong commitment to faith, youth, and Scouting. Her initiatives reflect her dedication to fostering spiritual growth and leadership among young people.

Jim Marchbank:

Jim has a passion for serving others and for serving God. He has been in Scouting for many years. As a youth he earned his Eagle Scout Award. He has gone on to serve on the Greater St. Louis Area Council’s Executive Board.

About 10 years ago, he became the Chair of his council’s Religious Relationship Committee and turned it from a reporting committee into an action driven committee. His results were noted at the national level, and he was brought onto the National Religious Relationship Committee to develop and coordinate council level Religious Relationship Committees across the nation. His actions have resulted in many new council level committees being formed. He has developed online resources for sharing best practices. He has quarterly Zoom meetings and newsletters with council level Scouters.

He also serves as the National Chair for “Scouts Read Sacred Texts”. His committee recruits thousands of Scouts, not just in our nation, but also from around the world to read the sacred text of their faith during the 1st week of May. This gives the Scouts an opportunity to live out their Duty to God both individually and communally. The United Methodist Church has presented Jim with the National Silver Torch Award for his work with youth across the nation and internationally. Since his retirement, he has worked as an Adjunct Professor of business at several universities where he has been recognized as the Teacher of the Year. Scouting and faith groups have always had an important partnership, and Jim works diligently to sustain and improve that relationship.

Edward P. Martin:

Ed is a shining example of how to live your faith and reverently respect the faith traditions of others. He has been in Scouting America for nearly 40 years. He has served for 25 years on the National Executive Board of the National Catholic Committee on Scouting where he has served as its National Chair for three years.

For the past 12 years, he has served as a member of the National Religious Relationship Committee. He played a lead role in developing the National Chaplain Aide Manual to serve all faiths. He founded Great Trail Council’s Religious Relationships Committee and serves as its Chair.

He is a 3rd Degree member of the Knights of Columbus. He has been recognized with the Silver St. George Award, Bronze Pelican, District Award of Merit and the Silver Beaver Award. He has also served as a Cubmaster, Scoutmaster and as his district’s Commissioner. He serves as coordinator for faith services at summer camps. One of his biggest joys in Scouting is working with Scouts on religious emblems.

Jeff Thompson:

Jeff is a wise, thoughtful, and excellent leader. He is a person of vision, faith, and integrity. He has given exemplary service to Scouting, fortifying, and demonstrating the efficacy and value of the Scout program. He has staffed eight Jamborees as a Chaplain. At the World Jamboree in 2019, he was Coordinator between the Chaplaincy and Medical Services. His chaplaincy service at the Jamboree draws a lot from his many years of service and training as Director of Pastoral Care for a sizable Georgia healthcare system.

He has served as Course Director at Philmont Training Center for National Chaplain Training and as a Course Director for National Association of Baptists for Scouting at PTC. He served as a Philmont Chaplain for a summer. He has served on the National Religious Relationship Committee for many years. He is actively involved in the refurbishment of the back country chapels at Philmont that serve all faiths. He has been in Scouting America for 35+ years.

He is the Past National President of the Association of Baptists for Scouting. The Chattahoochee Council has honored him with the Silver Beaver Award. He has received the Baptist Good Shepherd Award. Among the words which come to mind when describing Jeff are: Godly individual; humble servant; exemplary man who “walks the walk and talks the talk”; unselfish and unassuming chaplain; individual whose character is above reproach; and a person of tremendous influence at the national level for Scouting.

Robert E. Vogt:

Bob is a man of faith, leadership and compassion who has served Scouting on the local, regional, and national levels as he lives out his faith. He has been part of scouting for 62 years. He has served for 17 years on the National Religious Relationship Committee and for the last 6 years has been a part of its Executive Committee.

In 2020 with the pandemic closing churches, he was a co-founder of the virtual Zoom Religious Emblem Award Program for all Protestant PRAY awards. Over the last 4 years, over 1,000 Scouts have completed their Religious Emblems through this program.

Through a faith-based publishing company he founded 35 years ago, he designed and produced thousands of New Testaments that are distributed to our Scouts each year at the Philmont Scout Ranch and at the Summit. He has staffed numerous Faith Weeks at Philmont Training Center. He led the national sub-committee that developed and introduced the new Council Duty to God Award across the nation. For over 50 years he has staffed an interfaith youth camp every summer. He is currently chairing a national committee outside of Scouting America, to create for secular, non-faith-based, youth, an “Introduction to Faith: Spirituality Award Series”. It will be in similar scope and magnitude to a faith’s Religious Emblem.

As a youth, he completed his Eagle Scout Award and God and Country Award. The United Methodist Church has honored him with the National Silver Torch Award. For his service to Scouting, he has been recognized with the Silver Beaver and the Silver Antelope Awards. He has been a Venturing and Exploring Advisor for over 40 years. His council, area, and region recognized him with their Venturing Leadership Awards. He has served on the Greater St. Louis Area Council Religious Relationship Committee for over 20 years. Through all his service, he has cultivated a character of humility, integrity, and service, which are hallmarks of the Duty to God Award.

2024 Recipients

John Anthony:

John embodies what it means to be a Servant Leader throughout both his professional and volunteer service to God, his fellow humans, and the Scouting movement with a particular emphasis on the 12^th point of the Scout Law – Reverence. Two days after graduating from college, he began his 38 year career as a Scouting professional. He rose to serve two councils as their Scout Executive. He served as the National Director of Learning for Life for 13 years. During those years and beyond he also served as Exploring Advisor, Den Leader, Scoutmaster and Venturing Committee Chair. John is an Eagle Scout and Vigil member of the Order of the Arrow.

He is the current Chair of the National Catholic Committee on Scouting. He has served as the Course Director for Scouting in the Catholic Church at the Philmont Training Center. Through the Catholic Church he has been recognized with the Bronze Pelican, the St. George Award, the Silver St. George Award, and the Golden Altare Dei Award. The National Jewish Committee on Scouting has honored him with the Shofar Award.

He has served for years on the National Religious Relationship Committee. John and his wife, Cindy, are both members of the lay religious organization known as the Order of Malta. He is a lifetime member of the Kiwanis International and past distinguished Lt. Governor of this service organization. His everyday life is a testament to his faith and servant heart.

Mark Francis:

All too often, professional Scouters are not considered for major awards because it is “their job.” But there are times when a professional Scouter goes well beyond “the job” to provide transformational leadership in supporting and promoting the spiritual foundation of Scouting. Mark is that transformational leader.

Mark is a NESA Outstanding Eagle Scout and Vigil Honor member of the Order of the Arrow. He is the current Scout Executive of the Far East Council headquartered in Okinawa, Japan, which supports Scouting in 18 Asian and Indo-Pacific countries. He previously served as Director of LDS-BSA Relationships, working closely with members and key leaders of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

While serving Scouting as a professional, he has also been an active volunteer, founding several packs and troops and currently serving as Bear Den Leader for his son.  Mark and his wife Nettie have 10 children—all involved with Scouting. So far, they have three Eagle Scout sons, one Eagle Scout daughter, two Life Scouts, one Star Scout, one Cub Scout, and three Philmont staff members. Mark has served in many roles within his church. He currently serves as District President in the Okinawa Japan Military District, with key assignments during the recent Okinawa Japan Temple groundbreaking, open house, and dedication. Working with the National 411 Project, he had a profound impact in strengthening and bringing the Duty to God requirement into all of Scouting’s rank advancements. 

Mark has been instrumental in the development of the Vanguard International Scouting Association and serves on its board of directors. Vanguard is keeping Duty to God alive among Latter-day Saints and in Scouting associations around the world. Mark is a member of the BSA National Religious Relationships Committee and is involved in religious circles within the World Organization of the Scouting Movement. He has supported Faith and Beliefs at many National and World Scout Jamborees—most recently in South Korea—and has had a profound impact in bringing religions and religious Scouters together all over the world. He provides personal support and counsel to Scouts of all faiths and shows how Duty to God is integral in Scouting.

Greg Godwin:

Greg, a United Methodist Pastor, has been actively promoting a Scout’s Duty to God for nearly 27 years.  In 1999, he was invited to serve as the Scouting Ministries Coordinator for the West Virginia Conference. Later he served as the North East Jurisdictional Coordinator and served on the board of the General Commission on United Methodist Men as a board member and the board’s secretary. 

He facilitated the United Methodist Scouting Committee’s training for UM Jamboree Chaplains.  He was the lead UM Chaplain for the 2010 and 2013 National Jamborees.  He served as the Protestant Chaplain at the 2015 World Jamboree in Japan. He was part of the management team for the Duty to God & Country Program Area at 2017 National Jamboree. During the 2019 World Jamboree, he was the logistics lead for the Faith and Beliefs Program Area. He has twice served as the Director for the UMC Course at Philmont.

Since 2014, he has served as a Protestant chaplain at the Summit and in 2020 became the Summit’s first Resident Chaplain. He will return this summer to the Summit for his fifth year. He is an Eagle Scout and a Distinguished Eagle. He has been recognized with the District Award of Merit, the Silver Beaver Award, and the Silver Antelope Award. The United Methodist Church has recognized him with the God & Service Award and the National Silver Torch Award.  He is a John Wesley Fellow and is a recipient of the St. George emblem from the NCCS. 

He has served at the unit, district, council, and area service team levels over the years. He currently serves as Chair of the Buckskin Council’s Scoutreach Committee that is developing a strategy to deliver Scouting to some of the poorest counties in Appalachia.  Greg’s wife, Lisa, has been supportive of his work, particularly while they live apart during his service at the Summit each summer.  Greg’s continued sense of God’s call to pastoral ministry in the United Methodist Church is shaped by Scouting Ministry through relationships and serving young people in our communities.

Robert G. Wedig, PhD:

Bob Wedig exemplifies Duty to God in his faith, service, and leadership for the youth of Scouting through the work he performs both nationally and in his own Catholic faith. He is the Chairman of the National Religious Relationship Committee leading the committees involved in promoting Duty to God and

representing the Religious Relationships Committee to the national scouting office.

Bob is also a member of the National Catholic Committee on Scouting as well as his own council’s Catholic Committee on Scouting. Bob leads a Catholic Scouting retreat each year and he helps plan and execute the Catholic Scouting Award ceremony for his council. Bob is an Eagle Scout who has worked with youth for 15 years to help them earn their Catholic religious emblems helping over 50 scouts earn their Catholic religious emblem.

Bob holds a PhD in Electrical Engineering and he works as a professional expert witness in the field of intellectual property law. Bob is a man of faith who lives out his faith both in his sincere devotion to God and in his service to the youth of the Boy Scouts of America.

2023 Recipients

Charles W. Dahlquist III:

Charles is an example of someone who lives the principle of Duty to God as he practices care and concern for others. He does not shy away from every opportunity to instruct, encourage, and support the youth whenever the opportunity arises. He has served in Scouting for nearly 50 years in many roles including as a Venturing Crew Advisor, Scoutmaster, Council President, President of the National Executive Board, and the BSA’s National Commissioner. He has served as Jamboree Chaplain, Wood Badge Course Director, and as the Young Men General President of the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints where he was responsible for the religious training of over one million young men who resided in congregations all over the world. He created the Vanguard International Scouting Association in 2019 to insure that young men and women of his faith could receive their religious emblem awards. He serves with the Interreligious Forum of World Scouting to promote Faith & Beliefs at international events. He has been recognized with the District Award of Merit, Silver Beaver, Silver Antelope and the Silver Buffalo Awards. He has been supported in all this by his wife of nearly 54 years, Zella, who has also been to Wood Badge, is a long-time Scouting cheerleader and in 2018, with Charles, received the Thomas S. Monson Lifetime Scouting Service Award. With his booming voice, engaging smile and the inclination to break into song, he has enriched many lives. He is the epitome of a Servant Leader.

Steven S. Scheid:

Steven has truly exemplified transformational leadership in supporting and promoting the spiritual foundation of Scouting. As a youth he became an Eagle Scout, and as an adult he has served as a Venturing Crew Advisor, Troop Chaplain, Charter Organization Representative, and as the National Director of Scouting Ministries for the United Methodist Church. His leadership has transformed the outreach and effectiveness of the United Methodist Church through his heartfelt engagement and faith-driven guidance with local and national Scouting and church constituencies at all levels. He shepherded the United Methodist Church through the BSA bankruptcy by participating in complex negotiations of settling the liabilities of his church and other faith-based charter organizations into a workable solution for all involved. He serves is a Local Licensed Pastor for his church and has been recognized with the God and Service Award through PRAY, the Cross & Flame Award, and the Silver Torch Award for his work with the youth. He has served as a Guide, Chaplain in Wood Badge, and on the World Scout jamboree Duty to God Team. He serves on the faculty of the United Methodist Weeks at the BSA High Adventure Camps. He also serves on the National Religious Relationship Committee. He has given his all to the BSA and to his church during the bankruptcy; both remain alive and healing, growing in thankfulness and grace because of him. He is a powerful and skilled servant of God and a humble leader and teacher.

Wayne D. Stuckey:

Wayne Stuckey has an ability to talk to people and share with others the faith that sustains him. He has a way of explaining things to youth that makes even the most complex things simple and easy to understand. He has been an adult leader in Scouting for 25 years. He has served on the board of the National Lutheran Association on Scouting for 15 years, serving in all of its officer positions, including as President. He has used these positions in his unending promotion of the religious emblems program across the nation, and the promoting of Scouting as a solution to engaging young people in their faith. He serves on the National Religious Relationship Committee and has been instrumental in the development of the proposed Council Duty to God Award. He has served on numerous Jamboree staffs in the Lutheran exhibit of the Duty to God and Country/Faith & Beliefs area. At the Philmont Training Center he has served 3 times on the faculty as part of the Scouting in the Lutheran Church course. His church has recognized him with the God & Service Award and the Lamb Award. He has also received the District Award of Merit, Silver Beaver, Scoutmaster Award of Merit, and the James E. West Award. Wayne is a Vigil Honor member of the Order of the Arrow. He has a profound ability to teach, and he uses it to reach the youth of our nation. His everyday life is a testament to his faith and servant heart.

Amanda Vogt:

Amanda’s leadership is known throughout the nation for being a great ambassador for the spiritual development of youth and adult members. Amanda has always embraced the diversity of all beliefs and leveraged relationships for the betterment of Scouting. As a youth, she advanced through Venturing leadership positions to become the National Venturing President and a member of the BSA’s National Executive Board. She has earned the Venturing Silver Award, Trust Award, Ranger Award and Girl Scout’s Gold Award. She has been recognized in Venturing with the National Venturing Leadership Award. She has served for 14 years on her council’s Religious Relationship Committee and on the National Religious Relationship Committee where she serves as the Chair of National Duty to God Social Media & Virtual Events Sub-committee. She established and maintains the Duty to God, BSA Facebook page. She coordinates all the facets of this through the many different faith groups in Scouting. She has created many videos on the different aspects of Duty to God. She has served as the Duty to God Breakfast Co-chair at the National Annual Meetings. She has been a board member of the National Commission of the United Methodist Men where she served as the Scouting representative. Because of the pandemic, she developed a nationwide virtual religious emblem PRAY program where over 700+ youth have earned their religious emblems. She has served at the Philmont Training Center many times for the faith week for the United Methodist Church. In 2020, with Philmont cancelled, she worked to turn the Faith Week into a virtual week and had all faith groups working together to reach over 20,000 views. She has been recognized by her church with the Cross & Flame Award and the National Silver Torch Award. She is a recipient of the District Award of Merit and the Silver Antelope Award. Amanda’s desire to help instill the 12th point of the Scout Law in all Scouts and Leaders is enhancing the faith life of many and will have a lasting effect in the life of Scouts today and in the future.

2022 Recipients

Bishop R. Daniel Conlon:

The Most Reverend Daniel Conlon, Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Joliet, IL, has been involved in Scouting since his youth days when he rose to be a Life Scout and served on the summer camp staff. He is currently the Liaison on behalf of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops to the National Catholic Committee on Scouting. He has chaired the Bishops’ Committee on Protection of Children and Young People. His love and passion for the Scouting Program is without question and knows no bounds. He has served on the Executive Boards of four Councils. He has led three 10-day St. George Treks at Philmont, leading the Scout youth discerning religious life. He has served as the Catholic Chaplain and as a member of Diocesan Catholic Committee on Scouting in the Dioceses he has served. He has said that when he retired, he intended on going back to the Scouting position that he felt he had the greatest impact, that of a unit leader. He currently serves as an Assistant Scoutmaster at St. Joseph Parish in Manhattan, IL. Bishop Conlon is a great ambassador for his Council, Scouting, and the Catholic Church. He is a member of the Order of the Arrow and a recipient of the Silver Beaver Award.

Clarence E. Clayton, Jr.:

Clarence makes time, is always present, resourceful, and willing to offer assistance, advice and vision. As a member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME), Clarence has made a difference in thousands of lives. Clarence serves as the AME Connectional Director of Boy Scouts where he is a representative and advisor in both national and international settings, always lifting up the concerns of young people using Scouting as an effective form of faith formation and leadership development for youth. In his 31 years in adult Scouting, he has served as a Cub Master, Scoutmaster, Council Commissioner, Deputy Director and Director of Boy Scouts for the Association of African Methodist Episcopal Scouter’s, and Council Executive Board. He currently serves on the National Religious Relationship Committee as the Chair of the Membership Sub-committee. He has run the AME booth at 6 National Jamborees. He has received the District Award of Merit, James E West Award, and the Silver Beaver Award. His daughter was President of her Venturing Crew and his son is an Eagle Scout. He is known to be passionate and committed to the work God has entrusted his hands to do.

Ed Milbrada:

Ed Milbrada is well known for being a “steady Eddie” who can always be relied upon to carry through and bring value and opportunity to every task, obstacle, and challenge faced by units and members alike. He worked with Fr. Edward Erb to develop a new supplement for the Episcopal Scouts for the P.R.A.Y. program. He brought the Episcopal Brotherhood of St. Andrew, serving men & boys, into the ministry of Scouting for the youth of the Episcopal Church, which brought about the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the BSA. Ed serves on the National Religious Relationship Committee representing the Episcopal Church. He serves his council on the advancement committee and has served on NYLT staff. He has been a commissioner. Currently, he serves as Eagle Coordinator for two troops and has held numerous other unit level positions. During his nearly 30 years as an adult Scouter, he has been recognized with the Distinguished Commissioner Award, the District Award of Merit, and the Silver Beaver Award. As a chemical engineer, he holds 8 patents on the behalf of the Procter & Gamble Company. He has served on 2 National Jamboree Staffs. He is a recipient of the Episcopal St. George Award.

Ted Spangenberg, Jr.:

Ted started his Scouting as a Cub Scout 60 years ago. Scouting is better because of his lifetime devotion to the program and his “Duty to God”. He exemplifies servanthood and his zeal for Scouting is truly refreshing. He is an Eagle Scout – part of four generations of Spangenberg Eagle Scouts – and a Vigil member of the Order of the Arrow. He was serving as a Scoutmaster by the age of 23. His service includes District Commissioner, Council Executive Board (President), and Southern Region Executive Board. He currently serves on the BSA National Religious Relationship Committee as the Chair of the Chaplaincy Subcommittee. He is a Deacon in his local Baptist church and an ordained minister. He served for 7 years as the National President of the Association of Baptists for Scouting. He has served on numerous National Jamboree staffs in such roles as Subcamp Chief and as Base Camp Chaplains’ Coordinator. He has served at Philmont as the Course Director for Baptist Scouting and the inaugural BSA Chaplaincy course. He has been recognized with the District Award of Merit, the Silver Beaver Award, the Silver Antelope Award, and the Baptist Silver Good Shepherd Award. Ted serves God with Scouting, with his family, with his church, in his community, and across the nation.

2021 Recipients

Jim Whitehead:

James “Jim” Whitehead is passionate about leading adult Scouters to be their best by sharing his faith, his knowledge, and a lifetime passion for Scouting. He has served as an adult leader in Scouting for over 50 years. On the unit level, Jim has served as a Cub Master, Scoutmaster, Exploring Advisor and Venturing Crew Committee Chair. He has served as District Commissioner and as Council Executive Board Member and Vice-president. Jim also served 18 years as a professional Scouter in 4 councils. For the past 12 years, he has been a member of the Executive Board of the National Lutheran Association on Scouting, including a term as its President. He has been a member of the National Religious Relationship Committee since 2012, serving on the Training Sub-committee. He has served on eight National Jamboree Staffs including three times on the disAbilities Awareness Challenge staff and has received both the Special Needs Scouting Service and the Torch of Gold Awards. As a Scout, Jim earned his God & Country Award. He has remained a strong advocate for the Religious Emblems Awards through his life and is a recipient of the Lutheran Church’s Lamb Award. He is a Vigil Honor member of the Order of the Arrow and has received the District Award of Merit and the Silver Beaver Award. Jim and his wife Sonya have led 14 Philmont treks along with two trips to Florida Sea Base and one to the Summit. Jim has served his local church in many roles including as President of the Congregation Council. His community involvement has been through the Jaycees, Rotary International, the National Exchange Club and Habitat for Humanity.

Judi Miller:

Judi Miller, is a faithful servant of her Lord, having served Him through the ministry of Scouting for some 40 years. She recognizes that a person’s “Duty to God” is lived out through love, specifically the love of neighbor. She has advanced a Scout’s duty through many decades of service on the National Lutheran Association on Scouting’s Executive Board. She has served as an officer of the association since 1992 including as the association’s President. She has served on the staff at the Philmont Training Center for the Lutheran Conference on Scouting. Her service in Scouting includes Assistant Scoutmaster, Commissioner, and Wood Badge Course Director. Judi’s faith is focused outward. She is passionate about helping people who are experiencing homelessness, as she focuses her congregation in this ministry to move the homeless unto a path toward stable living. She has received numerous council and district-level recognitions including the Silver Beaver Award.

Thomas Martin:

Rev. Thomas Martin’s leadership style is someone who can be counted on “over the long haul” to be deep, steady, focused, dependable, humble, supportive and extraordinarily committed in his faithfulness to his God while unselfishly investing in the lives of others. Thomas has served on six National Jamboree staffs as a chaplain. He has played a key role in leadership for the Jamboree chaplaincy staff. In the postponed 2021 National Scout Jamboree, he was selected to be the headquarters’ Chaplaincy Leader. He was the co-leader of the 2019 World Scout Jamboree Chaplaincy. He serves on the National Religious Relationship Committee. He serves on the National Executive Board of the Association of Baptists for Scouting. He has served numerous times on the staff for Scouting Ministry at the Philmont Training Center. He is an Eagle Scout and Vigil Honor member of the Order of the Arrow. He is one of the youngest ever to be presented with the adult Good Shepherd Religious Award for the Baptist Church. He serves in numerous local and statewide organizations, which benefit faith-based and secular audiences. He is currently a Cub Scout Leader for his son’s Cub Scout Pack. In his 27+ years in Scouting, he has held many leadership positions in his council including being a member of the council’s Executive Board. He serves as the Associate Pastor of the First Baptist Church in Pineville, Louisiana.

Bill Davies:

William “Bill” Davies embodies the values and personal attributes of both his faith and Scouting in all that he does. A Bronze Star, Vietnam Army Veteran, Bill serves his church, Scouting and his community. He is a member of the National Religious Relationship Committee. He is the past National Chair and Executive Board Member of the National Catholic Committee on Scouting. He is a past member of the Central Region Executive Board, and currently serves on the region’s Silver Antelope Selection Committee, as well as being the current Area 1 Vice-Chair. He has attended seven National Jamborees and Philmont five times as he staffed the Catholic Church’s courses. He is a life member of the American Legion and current Post Commander. He is active in the Rotary Club, having served as his club’s President and as Rotary’s Assistant District Governor. He has been active in numerous youth sports leagues including serving as his area’s Little League President. For his service to the Catholic Church, he has received the St. George Award, the Silver St. George Award, and their highest honor, the Brother Barnabus Award. He is a Vigil member of the Order of the Arrow. He has received the Distinguished Commissioner, Silver Beaver and Silver Antelope Awards. He has served Scouting for 39+ years and his two sons are both Eagle Scouts.

2020 Recipients

David Wilson:

His deep and abiding faith informs his work with youth, a cause to which he has invested more than 25 years. For over 12 years he served as the Church of the Latter-day Saints’ Chaplain at Philmont Scout Ranch, responsible for the caretaking of the spiritual lives and souls of thousands of campers. As the Philmont Chaplain Coordinator, he fostered ecumenical practices and development of staff and campers alike. He has served Venturing from its beginning and rose to become the Western Region Venturing Advisor and then National Venturing Advisor. He has served as the Philmont Staff Association National Director and on his Council’s Executive Board. He has received the Silver Beaver and the Silver Antelope Awards. For his ecumenical service he has received the Catholic St. George Award and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Duty to God Award.

Larry Gibson:

As the First Counselor of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ General Young Men Presidency and as the President of the Western Region Executive Board, Larry routinely encouraged all Scouts and Scouters to recognize the diversity of all faiths recognized by the BSA. Larry was instrumental in revising and revitalizing the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Duty to God program throughout the world. He is a “walking/talking” example of being open to all people of various faiths and religious beliefs. He has participated in both national and world Jamborees numerous times as an integral member of the Faith & Beliefs  area.  He is a Distinguished Eagle Scout as well as a recipient of the Silver Beaver, Silver Antelope and Silver Buffalo Awards. He is a recipient of both the youth and adult Duty to God Award of the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints.

David Steward:

David published Doing Business by The Good Book, which matches scripture with guidelines for business practice. It is an indispensable volume that shows how to succeed in business by using the Bible and its lessons as a source of inspiration and guidance. David founded his company, Worldwide Technology, Inc., on a shoestring budget and borrowed money, well aware of the high-risk nature of the venture he was undertaking. Despite the fact that he was a novice entrepreneur, he was certain he would succeed. Steward believed intensely that God wouldn’t let him down. He has applied the same philosophy in his service to Scouting. His first job out of college was as a District Executive for the Boy Scouts. He has served as his Council Executive Board President as well as the Central Region Executive Board President. He currently serves as a Vice-president of the National Executive Board. David has co-chaired United Methodist Bishop Dinners for starting new units. He has been recognized with the Silver Beaver, Silver Antelope and the Silver Buffalo Awards. For his outstanding service to Scouting, the United Methodist Church has presented him with the National Silver Torch Award.

Merri Bolen:

Merri has demonstrated a long and selfless history in supporting and promoting the spiritual foundation of Scouting. She has served as the chair of her council’s Religious Relations Committee and has been the driving force of the council’s annual Duty to God Retreat. She has numerous times served on the Duty to God Staff at Philmont Training Center for the week long “Scouting in the Baptist Church”. She has served for years on the national level with the Association of Baptist for Scouting as its National Secretary and newspaper editor. She can be found working the Duty to God booth at the BSA National Meetings. She is a shining example of what the Scouting program’s Duty to God is meant to be. She has been recognized with the Order of the Arrow Vigil Award and has served as her O.A. Lodge Advisor. She has received the Silver Beaver Award and the Baptist Good Shepard Award.

2019 Recipients

Bray Barnes:

Bray is a member of the Boy Scouts of America National Executive Board and has served for over 20 years on the Religious Relationships Committee. Bray served as the Chairman of the National Catholic Committee on Scouting. In 2010, Bray was elected as the first American to serve as the World Chairman of International Catholic Committee on Scouting, a position he held for 6 years.

Kent Barnett:

As a registered Scouter for over 50 years, Kent is an Eagle Scout and has earned Vigil Honor, Silver Beaver, the Faithful Servant Religious Emblem, and many other adult  awards. He has served on the National Religious Relationships Committee since 1998. He retired in 2017 from Members of Churches of Christ for Scouting where he served as Executive Director for 19 years.

Liz Shelby:

Liz Shelby has over 20 years in Scouting. She co-wrote Chaplain Training and developed Cub day camp “Duty to God” curriculum.  Liz co-chairs the Capitol Area Council Religious Relations Committee. She is a lifetime member of the National Association of Presbyterian Scouters, serving as national secretary. She serves on the National BSA Religious Relationships and the Disability Awareness Committees.

Col. John Halloran (retired):

John served 32 years in the military and is a veteran of Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom.  During his military career in the U.S. Army, he served in 7 different Councils and Lodges.  John is very active with the National Catholic Committee and served as its Chair from 2010 to 2013.  He has received the St. George and Silver St. George Award.

2018 Recipients

Donna Copeland:
She is a true servant leader and a passionate promoter of “Duty to God” in Scouting. As chair of the of the Training Subcommittee of the National Religious Relationship Committee, she helped develop an online chaplain training program, faith-based initiative workshops and promoted the “Duty to God” exhibit booth at BSA national meetings. She serves as vice president of the Association of Baptists for Scouting and has provided leadership for Protestant worship services at the 2017 National Jamboree, Philmont and Sea Base. She is the recipient of the Baptist Good Shepherd religious award and is actively involved in the spiritual education and development of youth at her church and as a volunteer in local public schools.

Larry Coppock:
He is the National Director of Scouting Ministries for The United Methodist Church, where he has distinguished himself by establishing ministry initiatives in Scouting. He donates time to Special Olympics and Catholic charities, and has served at 5 National Jamborees. He is the executive director of Strength for Service, Inc., a non-profit company that produces devotional books for the military and first responders. He is a contributing editor for the best-selling Boy Scout edition of Strength for Service to God and Community. Mr. Coppock is an active member of the Palestine United Methodist Church in Springfield, Tennessee.

Dr. Sam Houston:
Dr. Houston has been continuously registered with the BSA since 1941. Sam is the Association of Baptist for Scouting’s past national president, executive board member, and chaplain. He has served as chaplain for 12 National Jamborees and 2 World Jamborees. He has been a faculty leader at Philmont several times since 1965. Dr. Sam Houston has been Council President and Commissioner, as well a member of the executive board of the Longhorn Council for over 50 years. He has pastored churches in a number leadership roles for over 60 years, including 30 years at Woodrow Baptist Church of Covington, Texas.

Dr. Neil Lupton:
Dr. Neil Lupton’s 63 years of service to the Boy Scouts of America is illustrative of his commitment to the character and spiritual development of youth. Since 2012, he has been a valued member of the National Religious Relationships Committee. Dr. Lupton has developed or co-developed many national programs and activities including Journey to Excellence, 21^st Century Wood Badge, three Philmont Training Center courses, and the Boy Scout and Den Chief’s handbooks. Dr. Lupton is the recipient of the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award and St. George Award.

2017 Recipients

Dr. Ron Adolphi:
Dr. Adolphi’s dedication to faith and Scouting has enriched the lives of thousands of Scouts and Scouters. He is a founding member of the National Lutheran Association on Scouting and served as its first president. He has served in many capacities since then and continues to serve as mentor to the executive board. He is a Distinguished Eagle Scout, Silver Beaver, and Silver Antelope. He is a Viet Nam veteran having received two Legions of Merit and two Bronze Stars. After retiring from the Army as Colonel, Ron was recognized with the Department of Defense’s highest civilian honor, the Medal for Distinguished Civilian Service. He and his wife, Celia, have been with St. John’s Lutheran Church in Alexandria, Virginia for nearly 40 years.

Rev. Donald Hummel:
Reverend Hummel is a faithful servant to God and Scouting and has been the heartbeat of the Northern New Jersey Council for almost 60 years. He has assisted the Philmont Scout Ranch as chaplain every summer since 1992, as well serving as chaplain at many National and World Scout Jamborees. Reverend Hummel has been recognized for his love of Scouting and outreach to young people, both interreligious and community based. He is a Distinguished Eagle Scout, Silver Buffalo, Silver Antelope, Silver Beaver, Silver Sage, and Bronze Pelican. He serves on International Catholic Scouting Foundation. His long and distinguished career as a servant of God and numerous service and leadership honors and recognitions have demonstrated well his passion for faith, community, education, and outreach to youth since 1964.

Syed Naquvi:
Syed has been passionate about Scouting since he joined in 1979, but his Scouting experience began when he was 7 years old in his native Pakistan where he received the highest youth honor, the King Scout Award. Sayyid began his professional career in Scouting as a District Executive in New York, and later founded the Islamic Council on Scouting and National Islamic Committee on Scouting in 1980. He developed the religious awards for youth and adults for the Muslim community. He currently chairs the National Islamic Committee. He has been a chaplain at six National Scout Jamborees and last 2 World Scout Jamborees. He is a Silver Beaver, and received the Silver Medal Award at the World Jamboree in 2015, and the Mahatma Gandhi Peace Award from the Asian American Outreach organization. He is the cofounder of the World Islamic Movement of Islamic Scouting and, founded the first Islamic National Scout Jamboree, and is a representative to the United Nation for Interfaith International.

Rev. Robert Thornton:
Reverend Thornton has served as the Director of Scout Ministries for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) for nearly three decades. He has served as the interfaith chairman for two councils and a religious instructor at Philmont. He has been a representative Girl Scouts of America, Campfire Boys and Girls, 4H Clubs, American Heritage Girls, and Trail Life USA. He is a Silver Beaver, and recipient of the Christian Church God and Service Award, Roman Catholic Bronze Pelican Award, and the Jewish Shofar Award. He has volunteered with the Disciples of Christ Homeland Ministry for 30 years.

2016 Recipients

Rev. Chip Turner:

Rabbi Peter Hyman:

Distinguished Recipients (Non-Members)

• Mrs. Laura Bush, Former First Lady of the United States of America (2018)
• Mr. Rex Tillerson, Former Secretary of State for the United States of America (2019)