Two dedicated unit coaches whose decades of service, mentorship, and leadership continue to shape strong Scouting programs and inspire youth across Arizona
The Distinguished Commissioner Award is the highest award for a community commissioner or unit coach for outstanding service that significantly benefits youth, units and the council. Having earned the Commissioner Key, the role of the unit coach and community commissioner is to actively support and engage with units to ensure their success and their program. They are a friend, a guide, a mentor and a coach to the unit leaders, volunteers and committee members. We proudly recognize Jeffrey Polston and Judy Walden 2024 Distinguished Commissioner Award Recipients. Join us in celebrating their incredible dedication and service!
Jeffrey Brian Polston is all about Unit Service. He splits his time between Yuma, where he is a CPA, and Mesa, where his spouse works and resides. He has been involved with Scouting for over twenty years, and his significant service to youth in Scouting has been through Commissioner Service, working alongside units to ensure their program and leadership success. Jeffrey has been honored with the Distinguished Commissioner Award, Silver Beaver, and District Award of Merit, and for him, he is passionate about encouraging youth to obtain their goals.
Judy Walden lives in Phoenix and is a proud Mom of two Eagle Scout sons. She has volunteered for 25 years, currently serves on the Executive Board, and loves being a Unit Coach for several packs, troops, and a crew. She’s involved with her community at her church as a liturgist/host and supports a local community garden. The District Award of Merit, Meritorious Service Star, Silver Beaver, and the Commissioner Award of Excellence in Unit Service are among her awards received. Scouting is meaningful to her because it prepares youth to lead, learn, work together, and embrace strong values in order to serve others in their community for a lifetime.
Unit coaches like Jeffrey and Judy exemplify the spirit of Scouting through their commitment to mentorship, service, and community. Their impact reaches far beyond the units they serve—helping shape confident, capable leaders of tomorrow. We thank them for their extraordinary service and congratulate them once again on receiving the Distinguished Commissioner Award!
