Established in 1969 by NESA, the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award (DESA) recognizes Eagle Scouts who achieve extraordinary national-level recognition, fame, or eminence within their profession and/or service to the nation and have a strong record of voluntary service to their community. Each year, councils can nominate candidates who have been Eagle Scouts for at least 25 years to be reviewed by a committee of Distinguished Eagle Scouts. This year’s committee, chaired by NESA Vice President Glenn Adams, selected 18 individuals for the 2024 DESA Class. This year’s class members are:
Terry Scot Adams (1972)
Executive Vice-President of SA Recycling | Orange County Council
Terry Adams is a Director and executive team member at SA Recycling, the largest metal recycling company in the U.S., managing 25 shredding plants and handling millions of tons of metals annually. With over 43 years of expertise, he has specialized in recycling, hazardous waste management, and chemical production, co-founding Retirev Technologies, a leader in lithium battery recycling. He holds a mechanical engineering degree from USC and an MBA from Cal State Fullerton and is actively involved in community leadership, including the Children’s Hospital of Orange County. An accomplished athlete, Adams resides in Newport Coast, California, with his wife, Leslie, and their two adult children.
Dr. Andrew M. Baker(1983)
Chief Medical Examiner of Hennepin County | Northern Star Council
Andrew Baker, a distinguished graduate of the U.S. Air Force’s Officer Training Program, began his military career in 1998, participating in high-profile investigations such as those in Kosovo, the USS Cole bombing, and the September 11 Pentagon attack. He became a full-time forensic pathologist in 2002, later serving as Chief Medical Examiner for Hennepin County, where he expanded services to surrounding counties and has lectured nationally. Dr. Baker has contributed to forensic pathologist boards, provided testimony in high-profile cases, and worked in disaster response teams, including following Hurricane Katrina. A recognized expert with over 70 publications, he is a fellow of several professional organizations and has trained numerous medical Fellows.
Terrance J. Brown (1962)
Owner of Terrance Brown FAIA Architecture | Great Southwest Council
Terry Brown’s career in disaster relief and architecture spans over 48 years, starting with his volunteer work in Latin America following the Vietnam War, where he helped preserve Mayan languages and assisted in disaster response efforts, such as after the 1976 earthquake in Guatemala. He later founded Xocomil Design, an architecture practice, and contributed significantly to disaster preparedness, serving as Chair of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Disaster Assistance Committee. Brown developed the AIA Disaster Comprehensive Response System and authored key publications that influenced FEMA’s housing guidelines and national disaster response strategies. His international work, including disaster assistance in Sri Lanka, Japan, and the Caribbean, led to his recognition as a leader in resilient architecture, earning multiple prestigious awards such as the AIA Whitney Young Jr. Award and AIA New Mexico Silver Medal.
Craig Burkhardt (1972)
Capital Partner of Barnes & Thornburg, LLP | Pathway to Adventure Council
Craig retired as a capital partner at Barnes & Thornburg, LLP, specializing in federal government relations, election law, and foreign agent registration. He has served as president of the Republican National Lawyers Association and chief counsel for various Republican leaders and campaigns, including the Trump campaign and George W. Bush’s 2000 legal team. Craig’s lobbying practice focused on advocating for statutory and regulatory changes, particularly in areas requiring complex technical understanding, and achieving significant outcomes for clients. From 2003 to 2006, he served as chief counsel for technology at the U.S. Department of Commerce, overseeing legal issues related to technology and export enforcement. Additionally, Craig has contributed to the Boy Scouts of America and guided professional ethics as part of his law firm’s Professional Responsibility Committee.
Dr. Brian Caputo (1977)
President of College of DuPage | Three Fires Council
Dr. Brian Caputo is the President Emeritus of the College of DuPage, the largest community college in Illinois, where he led initiatives to increase enrollment, enhance equity, and develop strategic plans. A retired U.S. Army Reserve Lieutenant Colonel with over 22 years of service, he specialized in financial and human resource management, earning commendations including the Meritorious Service Medal. Dr. Caputo also served as Chief Financial Officer and City Treasurer for Aurora, Illinois, managing a $400 million budget and $500 million in annual public investments. Currently, he is a member of the Governmental Accounting Standards Board, shaping national financial reporting standards. He holds degrees from West Point, DePaul University, and Northern Illinois University and is a certified public accountant.
Dr. David Doucette(1961)
Principal Engineer for D3 Software Corporation | Theodore Roosevelt Council
Dr. David R. Doucette is a renowned pioneer in computer programming and electrical engineering, recognized for his foundational contributions to programming languages, particularly PL/I, and his leadership in advancing technology education. With a career spanning roles at Northrop Grumman and KLD Associates, he led initiatives such as implementing a national police command-and-control system in South Korea and transitioning Pentagon software systems during Operation Desert Storm. A senior member of the IEEE and ACM, he has received prestigious honors including the IEEE Centennial and Millennium Medals. Dr. Doucette’s impact extends to philanthropy, community service, and academia, with educational credentials from NYU Tandon School of Engineering and a legacy of advancing innovation, education, and public service.
Craig D. Eerkes(1966)
Owner of Sun Pacific Energy | Blue Mountain Council
Craig D. Eerkes is a prominent business leader and philanthropist with a distinguished career in energy, banking, and insurance. As the former owner of Sun Pacific Energy, he expanded the company into one of the largest fuel distributors in the Pacific Northwest, earning the Energy Marketers of America Distinguished Service Award. Craig has served as Chairman and Lead Independent Director of Columbia Banking System, overseeing its merger with Umpqua Holdings to form a leading western U.S. bank. He also chairs WMI Mutual Insurance, guiding its operations across the Intermountain West. A dedicated community advocate, Craig and his wife led a $4.3 million campaign to build the Eerkes Family Branch of the Boys & Girls Club in Kennewick, Washington, and have supported numerous initiatives benefiting youth, education, and public safety. Recognized as Tri-Citian of the Year in 2014, Craig exemplifies leadership and a lifelong commitment to community service.
Robert Ashton James(1975)
Partner at Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw and Pittman | Piedmont (CA) Council
Robert “Rob” Ashton James is a partner at Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP, specializing in energy, construction, and infrastructure law. Over four decades, he has led major projects, including Chevron’s Tengizchevroil venture in Kazakhstan, the development of Oracle Park, and Stanford Hospital expansions. Recognized in The Legal 500 U.S. and Chambers Global, he is also a Senior Research Fellow at the Institute for Responsible Carbon Removal and an expert on artificial intelligence in renewable energy. Rob is a published author and member of the prestigious American Law Institute.
David Michael Johnson(1977)
Former District Court Judge for the State of Minnesota | Voyageurs Area Council
Judge David Michael Johnson is a decorated Marine Corps veteran and esteemed jurist with a distinguished career in public service and law. A University of Minnesota and Notre Dame Law School graduate, he served 27 years in the Marine Corps, earning numerous honors, including the Bronze Star and Meritorious Service Medal, for his leadership in national security and counterterrorism initiatives. As a District Court Judge in Duluth, Minnesota, since 2006, he has presided over complex criminal, civil, and probate cases, and he led innovations in Drug Court that significantly reduced recidivism. Judge Johnson’s leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in groundbreaking solutions to eliminate case backlogs statewide, further cementing his legacy of commitment to justice and community impact.
Charles “Chuck” Richard Kubic(1966)
President for Kubic Engineer Group | Tidewater Council
Rear Admiral Charles “Chuck” Richard Kubic is a retired U.S. Navy Flag Officer and accomplished civil engineer with over 40 years of leadership in global engineering, construction, and contracting. As Commander of the U.S. Navy Seabees during Operation Iraqi Freedom, he led critical combat engineering efforts, documented in his book Bridges to Baghdad. Post-retirement, he served as President of ECC International, driving $2 billion in global expansion, and later founded Kubic Engineer Group, supporting U.S. and international clients with major Department of Defense and State Department contracts. A Lehigh University graduate and Wharton School alumnus, Kubic’s innovations in military and civil engineering continue to leave a lasting legacy.
George Kunz(1960)
Attorney for George Kunz, PC | Las Vegas Area Council
George Kunz is a former NFL All-Pro offensive lineman, successful entrepreneur, and attorney with a lifelong commitment to excellence and community service. A standout at the University of Notre Dame, he earned All-American honors and graduated Cum Laude before being selected as the No. 2 overall pick in the 1969 NFL Draft. He earned seven Pro Bowl selections and multiple All-Pro honors over his 11-year NFL career with the Atlanta Falcons and Baltimore Colts. After football, Kunz became a McDonald’s franchise owner, helped establish Ronald McDonald House programs, and later earned a law degree to focus on family law and adoption. An active Las Vegas resident, he continues to inspire through his leadership and service.
Jeffrey W. Martin (1977)
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer for Sempra | San Diego Imperial Council
Jeffrey W. Martin is the chairman and CEO of Sempra, North America’s leading energy infrastructure company, overseeing operations that serve nearly 40 million consumers. A West Point graduate and former U.S. Army officer, Martin holds a master’s degree from the University of Texas, El Paso, and a J.D. from the University of Miami, where he graduated with honors. Under his leadership, Sempra has achieved record growth, with a $48 billion capital campaign and significant advancements in renewable energy and global energy security. Named CEO of the Year by Platts Global Energy Awards in 2020, Martin has fostered a high-performance, inclusive culture at Sempra while contributing to community initiatives, including support for education and diverse suppliers.
Paul D. Pate(1976)
Secretary of State for the State of Iowa | Mid-Iowa Council
Paul D. Pate, Iowa’s Secretary of State and a seasoned public servant, has a distinguished career spanning government, business, and community service. A graduate of the Wharton School’s financial management program and an entrepreneur, Pate has championed election integrity and modernization, instituting Iowa’s voter ID laws, online voter registration, and post-election audit systems. As mayor of Cedar Rapids and a state senator, he demonstrated impactful leadership. Recognized nationally, Pate has served as president of the National Association of Secretaries of State and spearheaded programs like Safe at Home for domestic violence survivors and Iowa Businesses Against Trafficking. He is also a decorated small business leader and civic advocate, earning accolades such as the Blue Chip Enterprise Award and Iowa Young Entrepreneur Award.
Dr. John Edward Regan (1953)
Owner of John E. Regan, DDS Practice | Anthony Wayne Area Council
Dr. John Edward Regan is a distinguished dentist and community leader whose career spans decades of groundbreaking contributions to his profession and community. He made history as the youngest appointee to the Indiana State Board of Dental Examiners. He later founded the Indiana Academy of General Dentistry, serving as its president before becoming International President of the Academy of General Dentistry, representing 40,000 dentists worldwide. Renowned for his expertise, Dr. Regan has published influential research in leading dental journals, helped establish national standards for dental products, and earned prestigious honors such as the AGD Mastership and Lifelong Learning and Service Recognition. Beyond his professional achievements, he co-founded Pathfinder Services, Inc., an organization supporting individuals with disabilities that now operates with a $22 million annual budget. At 88, Dr. Regan exemplifies leadership and service, indelibly impacting his field and community.
John Morris Russell (1976)
Conductor of the Cincinnati Pops | Dan Beard Council
John Morris Russell, known as “JMR,” is an internationally acclaimed orchestral conductor celebrated for his leadership of the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra, Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, and Windsor Symphony Orchestra. A Cleveland native, Russell earned his Bachelor of Arts from Williams College and a Master of Music in conducting from the University of Southern California. He trained at esteemed institutions like the Cleveland Institute of Music and the Aspen Music Festival. Renowned for his innovative programming, he has led world premieres, Grammy-nominated recordings, and award-winning educational initiatives. Russell’s legacy includes revitalizing orchestras, crafting celebrated youth outreach programs, and receiving accolades such as the Ontario Arts Council’s Vida Peene Award and a Grammy nomination for his American Originals: 1918 recording. His work inspires audiences worldwide, blending artistic excellence with a deep commitment to community engagement.
Brad Smith(1974)
President of Microsoft | Bay Lakes Council
Brad Smith, President and Vice Chair of Microsoft since 2015, is a globally influential leader in technology and society. He oversees a team of 2,000 professionals across 54 countries, addressing critical issues such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and environmental sustainability. Under his leadership, Microsoft reached a $3.125 trillion market capitalization in 2024, becoming the world’s most valuable company. Smith spearheaded philanthropic initiatives, founding Microsoft Philanthropies and leading projects like Wisconsin’s $3.3 billion AI data center. An advocate for human rights, he co-founded Kids in Need of Defense (KIND) with Angelina Jolie and has chaired impactful organizations, including the Washington State Opportunity Scholarship and United Way campaigns. Smith, a Princeton and Columbia Law alumnus, authored Tools and Weapons: The Promise and the Peril of the Digital Age, reflecting his dedication to ethical technology development.
Mark Lewis Stolowitz(1968)
Chief Science Officer of Visicell Medical Inc. | Pathway to the Rockies Council
Dr. Mark L. Stolowitz is a distinguished scientist and innovator whose groundbreaking contributions to medicine and medical research have significantly advanced the fight against cancer. A pioneer in cancer detection and treatment, Dr. Stolowitz directed the development of non-invasive ultrasound tumor detection technology, enabling early detection of tumors as small as 2 millimeters, a breakthrough in ovarian and other cancer diagnoses. His research also led to a novel cell-modification approach for attacking cancer, now in clinical trials for glioblastoma. With a Ph.D. in Chemistry and an extensive career at prestigious institutions like Stanford University, Dr. Stolowitz has developed and patented cutting-edge biochip platforms and cancer detection methodologies. His work has been funded by over $1.45 million in grants from the National Cancer Institute and the National Science Foundation. Recognized for his significant advancements, Dr. Stolowitz’s contributions continue to shape the future of cancer diagnostics and therapeutics.
Steven B. Williams(1966)
Managing Principal and co-founder of SENTRE and Vesta | San Diego Imperial Council
Steve B. Williams is a distinguished business leader and philanthropist, renowned for his contributions to real estate development and community engagement. A UCLA and USC Marshall School of Business graduate, Steve co-founded SENTRE Partners, a major real estate firm with a $500 million portfolio. He helped launch Vesta, a leading industrial real estate company in Mexico. He founded Bandwidth Now, pioneering innovative broadband solutions in commercial real estate. Steve’s civic initiatives include co-founding the Smart Border Coalition, improving cross-border efficiency, and mentoring emerging leaders through organizations like CONNECT and the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation. He actively supports local veterans’ initiatives, cycling fundraisers for cancer research, and the Challenged Athletes Foundation. A passionate advocate for education and history, Steve has championed projects like the USS Midway Museum and the Mt. Soledad Veterans Memorial, underscoring his deep commitment to the San Diego region and beyond.
