William knows firsthand that growth happens only when you step out of your comfort zone, get a bit uncomfortable, and accept a challenge. That is exactly what he did when he chose to transform his school’s campus for his Eagle Scout Project. Rather than settle for a modest or routine renovation, William went big and chose a 1,200 square foot courtyard right in the center of campus. Over the course of several months, William contributed more than 100 volunteer hours and oversaw dozens of volunteers who put in 450 service hours. He led the planning and surveying of the land and the removal of vegetation, along with the installation of artificial turf and multiple shade sales suspended from steel posts. William also helped secure significant corporate and private donations for the project, which was valued at about $35,000. 

The end result is an area of campus that now serves as a gathering space for students, teachers and faculty. What was once a source of daily complaints and blight, is now a favorite lunch spot, outdoor classroom, and highlight of campus tours. Most importantly, it serves as a reminder that when you go all in on and seize opportunities, you and the people around you will grow tremendously. 

Long before his Eagle Scout Project, William developed a love for the outdoors and inspiring others to explore the world around them.  At just 14 years old he was elected to serve as Crew Leader for a 10-day, 120-mile high-adventure trek through Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico. He is also a member of the Order of the Arrow, which is the National Honor Society of Scouting, and used his leadership role to help develop new systems for identifying, categorizing, and planning large-scale service projects at Scouting camps across Arizona.

Beyond scouting, William volunteers with Feed My Starving Children and as a golf coach at a nonprofit youth golf organization called Pops and Jr. Golf Program.  He is a member of his school’s German Club, Engineering Club, Math Club and Robotics, and earned Academic Excellence awards in all subjects.  He received the Silver Congressional Award from the U.S. Congress for completing goals in four areas: voluntary service,  personal development, fitness, and planning and completing a multi-day expedition.  

William is currently pursuing his private pilot license, and plans to study engineering and entrepreneurship in college.