Council recognition dinner – March 2026
Thanks to all who joined us on March 11 as we celebrated and honored the many leaders, Eagle Scouts and volunteers that make up our council. You can read about all the honorees in the program booklet. But here are some highlights!
The Silver Beaver Award, introduced in 1931, is Scouting America's highest council-level honor, recognizing registered Scouters for distinguished service to youth and exceptional character. It is awarded annually to dedicated adult volunteers who have made a significant impact at the local council level. This year's award winners include:
Keith Lewandowski
For 26 years, Keith Lewandowski has quietly powered some of Scouting’s most memorable experiences—from skating merit badge days to camp medical support to countless behind-the-scenes roles. Meet the volunteer whose impact speaks louder than words.
Learn More
John McConnell
With more than 30 years in Scouting—and now four grandsons in the program—John McConnell’s commitment runs deep. Known as “Doc,” his influence spans from Troop 55 to district-wide events that have shaped thousands of Scouts. Get to know the leader behind the legacy.
Learn More
Alan Sanders
Alan Sanders has spent decades shaping the Scouting experience for youth across our council—from leading Troop 916 through the pandemic to reviving Evanston’s legendary Beat-the-Bounds hike. Read how one dedicated volunteer continues to inspire Scouts, families, and fellow leaders.
Learn More
Additional Honorees
Adams Eagle Service Project of the Year Award – Brenden Miller, Troop 85
NESA Eagle Scout Scholarship – Sanjana Purayil, Troop 188G
Distinguished Eagle Scout Award – Heath Tarbert
Council Duty to God Award – Tony Steenkolk
International Scouter's Award – Kary Brown
Hillcourt Bronze Medal – John Ropiequet
District AwardS of Merit
Aptakisic
Dan Rubin
Nate Rupczynski
Jack Troester
North Star
Jim Miller
Dan Wolsey
Potawatomi
Ryan Bond
Doug Kissner
Jerry Wright
Unit Anniversaries
50 YEARS
Troop 309
St Francis De Sales Church, Lake Zurich
55 YEARS
Pack 189
Fremont Parent Teacher Organization
65 YEARS
Troop 195
Santa Maria Del Popolo Catholic Church, Mundelein
70 YEARS
Pack 932
Evanston Sunrise Lions Club
75 YEARS
Troop 929
Evanston Lighthouse Rotary Club
Pack 5
First Presbyterian Church of Wilmette
85 YEARS
Troop 55
Glenview Sunrise Rotary
95 YEARS
Troop 916
American Legion Post 42, Evanston
Troop 72
American Legion Post 329, Libertyville
105 YEARS
Troop 13
Church of the Holy Comforter, Kenilworth
Veteran Anniversaries
25 YEARS
Daniel Johnson
Thomas Tuten
Betsy Uzzell
30 YEARS
Thomas Mroz
George Sullivan
35 YEARS
Thomas Goldblatt
David Kline
Kenneth Morrison
40 YEARS
Nick Roberts
45 YEARS
John Ropiequet
50 YEARS
Ian Hopkins
Keith Totsch
To read more about some of these honorees, you can read the read the program booklet here.