Dan Beard Eagle Scout Association

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Dan Beard ESA Ascending Eagle Award

Eagle Scouts are everywhere. They are doctors, teachers, lawyers, students, athletes, and more. One thing that all Eagle Scouts have in common is the importance of making a difference in their communities. The Eagle Scout Association would like to recognize young Eagle Scouts in an annual Class of Ascending Eagles, showcasing their inspiring stories.

Ascending Eagle

Eligibility

  • You can nominate yourself or another Eagle Scout.
  • The nominee must be thirty-five years old or younger as of 4/30/2025.
  • The nominee should either live within the Dan Beard Council service area and/or have earned the award while living within the Council.
  • Describe how, in your opinion, the nominee has soared above the true ideals of being an Eagle Scout.  Such descriptions can include how the nominee has applied the lessons learned in Scouting to his/her career, education, community service, etc. 

Selection

The Dan Beard Eagle Scout Association Awards Committee will select the Ascending Eagles from the nominations submitted between the previous year’s deadline and the current year’s deadline. The award(s) will be presented at an appropriate event that will be separately communicated.

Nomination Process

  1. Nominations are to be submitted using the online form prior to the deadline date.


    Submission Deadline: April 30, 2025

Submit nomination(s) online

Ascending Eagles – Inaugural Class of 2024 – Awarded on 6/01/2025

Ben Zumkehr

Ben Zumkehr is an Eagle Scout and lifelong outdoorsman. He supports multiple units in various leadership roles, including Unit Commissioner and Wood Badge staff. Beyond Scouting, Ben serves on his church’s governing board and works as a Quality Assurance Specialist at ConnXus, where he champions small and minority-owned businesses.

Brendan Erwin

Brendan Erwin earned his Eagle Scout in 2014 and has carried his passion for Scouting into a life of leadership and service. Now a District Executive with the Black Swamp Area Council, he led the council in new Scout recruitment this year, and he continues to pursue advanced leadership training while building the future of Scouting.

Connor Thompson

Connor Thompson exemplifies servant leadership. Connor followed a call to ministry, deepening his commitment to inclusion, service, and youth empowerment. His ongoing impact reflects a life shaped by both Scouting and the Order of the Arrow.

Gareth Evans

Gareth Evans has lived the Scout values both professionally and personally, being recognized for two lifesaving awards for heroic action. Outside Scouting, Gareth serves on the Rotary board, leads youth programs like RYLA, contributes to Jewish Changemakers, and runs a rescue initiative that has helped over 200 animals.

Nicholas Ratterman

Nick Ratterman has dedicated his life to service, both in and out of uniform. His decisive action was recognized by a Certificate of Merit for rendering emergency aid. Nick is the current Ku-Ni-Eh Lodge Adviser, a member of Mic-O-Say, and a professional Paramedic—demonstrating daily what it means to be prepared. He blends expertise, humor, and heart in helping shape the next generation of Scouting leaders.

Mark Bredemeier

As Scoutmaster, Mark Bredemeier fostered youth leadership and inclusivity, growing his troop across six school districts. He trusted Scouts to lead, supported high adventure trips, and mentored many to Eagle rank, always encouraging them to discover their strengths. Even after stepping down, he continues as Eagle Coordinator, guiding Scouts through Life rank and Eagle preparation. Mark’s calm mentorship and belief in every Scout have left a lasting legacy of growth, confidence, and leadership.

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