INDIANAPOLIS — The Crossroads of America Council, Scouting America, proudly recognized exemplary service and leadership at its 2025 Silver Beaver Dinner, held on Thursday, July 31. The dinner celebrated the contributions of outstanding adult volunteers and youth leaders in the Scouting movement.
The evening honored the 2025 Silver Beaver Class, the highest award a local council can bestow upon a Scouting volunteer. This year’s recipients are: Mark Allen (Plainfield), Ted Hazledine (Terre Haute), Ryan Kelleher (Fishers), Theresa Nees (Indianapolis), Matthew Phillips (Indianapolis), Gary Port (Indianapolis), Eric Sampson (Carmel), Adair Vaught (Carmel), Mike Wyatt (Noblesville)
Two youth Eagle Scouts were also honored for their leadership, achievement, and service.
Joshua Neal of Troop 276 in Indianapolis, received the Merle Miller Eagle Scout Project of the Year Award. His Eagle project — a 1,500-hour effort — created a quarter-mile prayer path with benches, a fire pit, and a cross at Castleton Community Church. Joshua has earned over 50 merit badges, is active in band, sports, and Mock Trial at Heritage Christian High School, and is a member of Firecrafter and the Order of the Arrow.
Benjamin Baskin, a Vigil Honor member of the Order of the Arrow and member of Troop 358 in Zionsville, received the Judge John Price Outstanding Eagle Scout Award. His Eagle project involved designing and building custom racks for the Covenant Christian High School Theatre program, where he’s actively participated. A recent graduate of Covenant Christian, Benjamin will attend Butler University this fall to study music composition.
The Silver Beaver Dinner is an opportunity to celebrate those who go above and beyond in shaping the future of Scouting and strengthening their communities.