PITTSBURGH, PA – The Boy Scouts of America, Laurel Highlands Council recognized two local business leaders with Scouting’s highest volunteer award at its annual business meeting on June 13, 2017 at Energy Innovation Center in Pittsburgh, PA. H. Scott Cunningham, Regional Managing Director with PNC Wealth Management and Gordon Gebbens, Senior Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer for UPMC Insurance Services Division, were honored by the Council for their service to youth, character development, and leadership as recipients of the 2017 Silver Beaver Award.
The Silver Beaver Award is the highest recognition a Boy Scout Council can bestow on an adult volunteer. The award is presented to those volunteers who have made an outstanding contribution to the Scouting program. Recipients are nominated by their peers; their application is presented by the local council and approved by the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America.
H. Scott Cunningham was elected to the Laurel Highlands Council executive board in 2012. On June 9, 2015, Scott was elected as Council President. During his tenure, Scouting has invested millions of dollars in its camp and program offerings, achieved financial sustainability, and increased its service to youth in underserved areas. “The return on investment in Scouting is measured solely by looking at the quality of our Scouts, how they are prepared for life, and how they go on to become the leaders that our community and businesses not just need, but demand.”, said Cunningham, “I am honored to have been able to contribute to that return on investment.”
Gordon Gebbens was elected in 2012 to serve as the chair of the Council’s inner city outreach programs, a role he served in until 2016 before being elevated to the role of Vice President for Program. In this role, he is responsible for leading staff and volunteers to deliver the highest caliber program offerings to every youth served by Scouting. “I am honored to be recognized by my peers but more honored to be able to serve Scouting and help grow an organization that has meant so much to me.”
