2004 National Vice Chief Interview
The National OA Web Site Staff recently asked the 2004 National
Vice Chief to answer a couple questions about the upcoming year and his past experiences within the OA. Here is what David Dowty had to say.
How do you feel to be a national officer? What do you find most exciting about the role?
The excitement is running high, and the spirit dwells deep. At this point, I am most excited to just be a part of the process that brings together 7,000 Arrowmen with one purpose - service.
What are you most looking forward to?
I'm looking forward to working with the most talented Arrowmen in the Order of the Arrow. The other national officers and myself are lucky to have such an excited and dedicated group of section chiefs. With their support, they make our jobs easy.
What are your earliest memories of the OA?
I can remember going through my induction years back. As soon as the weekend was over, through the encouragement of my older brother Eric, I joined our lodge's Indian events and ceremonies team. As a result, I was given the opportunity to dance with Yustaga Lodge of the Gulf Coast Council at the 1998 NOAC, where we won third place.
What was your first leadership position, and what was the greatest lesson you learned from it?
My first leadership position in the OA was lodge historian. The job helped me learn to always be prepared and ready for action, but probably the most vital lesson was learning to wait for the perfect moment. Patience in photography and life can yield amazing results!
What is the coolest thing you've done in Scouting?
I attended Florida Sea Base as a First Class Scout. On that excursion, I was afforded the opportunity to sail throughout the Florida Keys on a thirty-eight foot boat. Every moment of that trip remains with me today.
What makes you proudest to be an Arrowman?
The ability, honor, and privilege to work with thousands of dedicated brothers who not only sacrifice of themselves for each other, but also continue to do so on a consistent basis.
What awesome things have you done in the OA?
As an Order of the Arrow member of Black Eagle Lodge of the Transatlantic Council, I have served in a council that encompasses the entire continent of Europe. From Poland to Portugal and Iceland to Italy, I have had the opportunity to see the OA in many unique forms.
What makes the OA so cool?
I would say that the coolest thing about the OA is the simple fact that the most dedicated Arrowmen in our Order don't get paid to be so dedicated. And, they keep coming back, without fail, to continually out do themselves.
What is your favorite quote?
This quote sums up what I believe the OA does for each of us:
"To work at the things you love, or for those you love, is to turn work into play and duty into privilege"
- Ralph Parlette
(from his book "The University of Hard Knocks")
Revised 4/07/04
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