Celebrating Leadership & Impact at the Trail to Leadership Luncheon
On Thursday, October 9, 2025, the annual Trail to Leadership Luncheon took place at the Arizona Biltmore in Scottsdale. This prestigious event, attended by 344 guests many Scouts in attendance, celebrated the transformative impact of Scouting in Arizona. Designed to raise funds for local Scouting programs, the luncheon was more than a fundraiser—it was a testament to the power of community, leadership, and the development of future generations.
Hosted by Scouting Arizona, Grand Canyon Council, and supported by the ASU Foundation for a New America University as the Presenting Sponsor, the event brought together business and community leaders to highlight the life-changing influence of Scouting on Arizona youth.
This year’s Trail to Leadership Honorees, Dr. Michael Crow, President of Arizona State University, and Sharon Harper, President, CEO & Co-Founder of Plaza Companies, were recognized for their outstanding contributions to the Phoenix community and their commitment to fostering leadership and opportunity for Arizona’s young people.
Fundraising Impact:
Over $518,000 was raised in support of local Scouting programs which included a challenge match by TriDave Legacy Trust. These funds will ensure that programs remain accessible and affordable for Arizona families, providing a safe environment where youth can grow into confident, capable leaders.
Event Highlights & Remarks:
Event co-chairs John Graham and Karrin Taylor Robson delivered inspiring remarks celebrating community, mentorship, and the values of Scouting.
R.F. “Rick” Shangraw, Jr., Ph.D. shared the impact of community investment in Scouting programs and how these contributions shape the next generation of leaders.
Trail to Leadership Award Presenter, Gov. Doug Ducey, recognized the honorees’ commitment to public service and the positive difference they make in the lives of young Arizonans.
Andy Price, CEO of the Grand Canyon Council, delivered a moving message about the continued importance of Scouting in developing leadership, character, and community engagement among Arizona youth.
Sponsors & Supporters:
The luncheon was made possible by prominent sponsors, including:
- Presenting Sponsor: ASU Foundation for a New America University
- Silver Eagle Sponsors: Arizona Diamondbacks, Hugh & Susan Hallman, Meritage Cares Foundation, Perkins Coie LLP, Plaza Companies, The Intel Foundation, The Pivotal Foundation, and Bill & Mary Way
- Bronze Eagle Sponsors: 21st Century HealthCare, Arizona Community Foundation, AZ Benefits, Inc., Baker Tilly, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona. Boren Family Foundation, Carl Kunasek, Fellowship Square. HonorHealth Foundation, Howard Hughes, JDM Partners, John & Kathleen Graham, Karrin Taylor Robson, LAVIDGE. Okland Construction. Scottsdale Community Bank, Shamrock Foods, The Patel Family, Tiffany & Bosco, P.A.,Tom & Anne Curzon, Tony M. Astorga, and Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust.
Table Hosts: David Barrett, Jennifer Bennett, Jacob Benyi, Ken Boren, Brett Callahan. Angela Creedon, Dan Curzon, Tom Curzon, CR Davis, Louis DeLeon, Dan Drake. David Farca, Tim Fergestad, Mark Gaspers, Rodney Glassman, Dan Grubb, Mike Hoffman. Michael Huston, Akbar Jaffer, Sam Kelsall, Ray Kimball, Jared Langkilde, Kent McClelland, Gary Mierkey, John Mistler, Mark Moeremans, Paul Penzone, Steve Purves, John Randolph, Ryan Regula, Mike Rooney, William Scarbrough, Rick Shangraw, Chris Smith, Stuart Snedecor, Ross Sylvester, Carlos Velasco, Diego Verdugo, Dave Waltzer, and Mac Woods.
Take a look at more event photos on our Facebook page here!
