Recently, James A. Garfield graduate Alex Cooper was recognized for completing his Eagle Scout project at Camp Chickagami in Parkman. Alex’s project was to modernize trail signage at the Hiram College James H. Barrow Field Station.
According to Alex, “The College was looking to replace older, outdated trail signage, and needed new signs to clearly delineate the trails for local hikers,” Alex explained. “They wanted ‘proof of concept’ to justify a grant to replace the rest of the aging signs throughout the property.” To help with that effort, Alex constructed and installed ten, color-coded signs.
To accomplish the project, Alex worked with Jim Tolan, the Director of Operations at the Field Station. He noted that it took a few meetings to finalize the plans. “He was super helpful and supportive of the project,” Alex noted.
Looking back on his scouting experience, Alex noted he was part of a big group of friends who all wanted to join Boy Scouts. He credits Scouting with helping him develop his interpersonal skills. He also noted through scouting, he learned first aid and CPR, swimming and camping skills, as well as how to cook and create a budget. His favorite experience was backpacking a portion of the Appalachian Trail in the Smoky Mountains with his troop.
“In Scouting activities like the backpacking trip,” his father, Scott shared, “Scouts have to decide what to carry and what to leave behind.” He went on to explain that scouting also offers the opportunity to learn life skills, like budgeting and balancing a checkbook through earning merit badges. “Scouting provides lots of opportunities for youth to learn adulting skills that aren’t taught in school,” he noted. Scott earned his Eagle Scout rank as a young man, making Alex’s award that much more important.
In addition, Scott noted that Scouts are introduced to hundreds of different vocations and occupations that give them an opportunity to explore future careers. Scouting also gives young men the opportunity to develop interpersonal and leadership skills as well. Alex will attend Ohio University this fall where he’ll pursue a Masters in Therapy.
For more information on scouting, visit BeAScout.org.
