For embodying all the tenets of the Scout Law, Eastern Kentucky University President Michael Benson was awarded the Distinguished Citizen Award recently from the Blue Grass Council of the Boy Scouts of America.
“Scouting strives to teach youth valuable leadership skills that will benefit them in their careers and communities,” explained Drew Millar, a volunteer leader in Lexington with two sons in Scouting. “President Benson is the kind of leader we want our youth to emulate. He is kind and friendly to all he meets. He is helpful and willing to give of his time and talents for the benefit of others. He is cheerful, and his cheer is contagious. These are all elements of the Scout Law, and President Benson demonstrates them on a daily basis in the way he lives.”
The Blue Grass Council selects seven recipients annually for the prestigious award from its 55-county service area as its way of honoring leaders who provide outstanding civic service to their respective communities. Recipients are not necessarily Boy Scout volunteers but, rather, individuals who personify what the Boy Scouts stand for – good citizenship, outstanding moral fiber, with a dedication to others and for living their lives guided by their moral compass.
“I have known and admired President Benson since I met him several years ago,” said Millar, a former district chairman currently serving as finance chairman for the Palisades District. “He is a gifted leader, genuinely cares about other people and is fully invested in their success. He and his family are a blessing to our community.”
Both Benson and Millar, director of human resources for Tempur Sealy International Inc., are Eagle Scouts.