The newest national director of the Boy Scouts division of the Boy Scouts of America credits the local Boy Scouts office for his success.
Rees A. Falkner, executive director of the local Utah National Parks Council, was named to the national post this week. Falkner will report to his new position in Irving, Texas, on July 6. He has served in his current post since October 1986.
In his new position, Falkner will give direction to the development
and implementation of programs and services of the National Boy Scouts Division, which includes nearly 1 million registered Scouts ages 11 through 17.
He will be responsible for the development of all Boy Scout literature and support material, research and development of all new Boy Scout programs, oversee advancement programs - including establishing requirements for Boy Scout rank advancements - and be the program director for National Jamborees.
"I'm really very honored to have this opportunity," Falkner said. "As far as I know, I'm the first person from this area to be appointed to the national office."
His experience in the Varsity Scout program, though, may have given him a leg up on the post's other candidates. "I was in the original group that oversaw its be
See FALKNER on B2
ginnings," he said.
As overwhelming as his new duties may seem, Falkner said his local post has made him well-prepared to handle any situation. With basically all administrative duties for the 10th largest council in the country, "I was involved in all the financial transactions, camp developments and program advancements."
Also, Falkner said the Utah National Parks Council may be the country's finest. The local council serves central and southern parts of the state, as well as portions of Nevada and Arizona. Approximately 50,000 boys are registered in its programs.
Falkner leaves his post with few regrets. "This was the one post I'd be glad to fill," he said. "I'm very proud of what we've been able to accomplish as a council.
"It's always a pleasure when you work as a team, and that's what made working here great."
Ron Nyman will serve as interim council executive. Glen W. Swalberg, president of the Utah National Parks Council, said the council will begin the process of appointing a new council executive immediately, adding that it does not necessarily promote council executives internally.
"We'll miss Rees, but we're happy to see him get this prominent appointment," said Swalberg.