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Centennial Update: Andy Chapman appointed Southern Region chairman

  Ben Pycraft             OA Today

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When he became involved as a youth, he didn’t know where his path would take him, he just wanted events to run smoothly. The incoming Southern Region chairman, Andy Chapman, is proof that opportunities within the Order of the Arrow are endless. Since his involvement as a youth, Andy has had the opportunity to serve in a variety of roles throughout Scouting. As of this December, he’s excited to add the position of Southern Region chairman to that list.

Andy ChapmanThe region chairman is an key adult volunteer appointed by the region director. The chairman advises the region chief, who is elected each December at the national planning meeting. Andy has already begun forming his team that will work to enhance the OA program throughout the Southern Region this upcoming year. He’s recruiting other outstanding volunteers, filling spots for the National Leadership Seminar and National Lodge Adviser Training Seminar staffs and helping to develop ways to increase Order of the Arrow High Adventure program awareness and participation. Beyond all of this, Andy is most looking forward to working with the region chief and seeing him grow in the position.

Chapman has been involved with Scouting since Cub Scouts and was very active as a youth. He served as a senior patrol leader, camp staff member, lodge chief and actively participated in his section. An Eagle Scout and Arrowman of over 20 years, he still remembers the weekend of his Ordeal and being inspired to give service back to others. In addition to his youth service, Chapman has also served in multiple adviser positions within the Order of the Arrow. When he moved into the Southern Region, his new lodge welcomed him warmly. Right out of college he was asked to serve as an associate lodge adviser and following that served as Colonneh Lodge adviser from 2012 until December of 2015. Andy also has much experience with Scouting’s many trainings, serving on staff for NLS, NLATS and serving as his council’s youngest ever Wood Badge Scoutmaster at the age of 29. Along with countless other roles, he’s also served his council by sitting on the Silver Beaver Award selection committee.

In 2015, Andy was the deputy chairman for scheduling & facilities at the National Order of the Arrow Conference. In that role, he was tasked with ensuring no bumps in the road were encountered during the National Order of the Arrow Conference, where he was a liaison between the university and the conference. From his perspective, the conference went smoothly and the feedback was great.

Andy encourages others to continue being involved, remaining persistent in our purpose and keeping both the youth and adults around us engaged. Speaking to all Arrowman, youth or adult, he says to serve as a role model for others to see and to be a positive influence. When following great advice like that, you’ll surely find yourself with the opportunity to serve in many roles in Scouting.