Grand Canyon Council Leaders Gather at Philmont to Strengthen Skills, Build Community, and Shape the Future of Scouting.
This summer, a dedicated group of Grand Canyon Council volunteers and staff spent a full week at the legendary Philmont Scout Ranch and Philmont Training Center in Cimarron, New Mexico—sharpening their saws, building community, and investing in their own growth as Scouting leaders.
Pictured above are members of this outstanding group, including Ray Warren, who serves as Scouting America’s national Wood Badge coordinator. Ray led a national training for fellow Scouters who deliver Wood Badge courses in their local councils. His leadership and deep commitment to high-quality adult training continues to inspire us all.
Several members of our council team—Kevin Forsythe, Stephanie Russell, and Mark Price—participated in training designed to help us grow and enhance our National Youth Leadership Training (NYLT) courses. These courses equip Scouts and Venturers with advanced leadership skills and confidence that directly benefit their home troops and crews. Thanks to their participation, our NYLT programs will be even stronger in the years ahead.
Three of our top council leaders—Ray Kimball, Kent McClelland, and Russ Jones—took part in the Council Key 3 Training course, a gathering of executive leaders and volunteers from across the country. This training was co-facilitated by Tom Curzon, Jacob Benyi, and Andy Price, and focused on strategic leadership, governance, and the shared vision we all hold for Scouting’s future.
As always, Danny Tucker provided invaluable support throughout the week, helping our team make the most of their time at Philmont with his signature hospitality and behind-the-scenes expertise.
We’re deeply grateful to each of these leaders who took time away from home and other responsibilities to continue learning and leading. Their investment will pay dividends for years to come—not only for the Grand Canyon Council, but for the thousands of Scouts whose lives will be shaped by stronger, more effective programs and leadership.
Thank you for representing us with pride and passion at Philmont—and for continuing to guide the way forward for Scouting in Arizona and beyond.
