Following in the footsteps of two very active older brothers — one of whom was also an Eagle Scout, Matthew Shepard joined Troop Seventeen in September of 1988.
Matt advancement record and Scouting career provide an excellent example of the results that can be achieved with perseverance, hard work, and a clear focus on a goal. For example, in the Mile Swim, Matt stuck with it even though it took 50% longer than most the first time and he has now accomplished it three times.
On his trail to Eagle, Matt accumulated 28 merit badges — although only 21 are required. In his advancement work, Matt’s merit badges show numerous interests and reflect the fact that Matt is willing to tackle a variety of subjects with remarkable determination and zeal.
Indicative of his strong interest in Scouting, when he went away to boarding school, Matt also became active in Troop 52 in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. He was elected their Senior Patrol Leader and according to their Scoutmaster, was one of the very best to have ever served in that position.
For his Eagle service project, Matt initiated an Adopt-A-Highway program for his school and through his leadership was able to recruit his school staff to assist him in its completion.
Outside of Scouting, Matt has participated in Taekwando, earning two belts and receiving several trophies including “Most Improved”.
At his school, Matt participated in dramatic productions including the lead role in Shakespeare’s “Mid Summer Night’s Dream”. He was also on the swim team and at their achievement banquet was recognized with a standing ovation for his efforts.
A good and avid reader, for two years in a row Matt was on the winning team in his school’s parent-student academic bowl.
Computers is an area in which Matt excels – as a computer user almost his entire life, Matt performed the desktop publishing for his school’s yearbook for two years.
Matt loves the outdoors and has been to Troop Seventeen’s annual summer camp for eight straight years and has been selected as an Honor Camper. He is also a water skier, snow skier, and likes horseback riding.
In 1995, Matt was elected by his fellow Scouts to the Order of the Arrow, Scouting’s national honorary society of honor campers. Since then Matt has risen to the level of Brotherhood and served as an Elangomat at the 1995 Spring Conclave.
Matt has also earned Honor Patrol recognition at a district camporee as well as serving as a member of Troop Seventeen’s Leadership Corp.
Matt is described as a willing worker with an engaging personality and a great attitude whose warm presence is welcomed by all.
Matt continued his schooling in California and hopes to someday combine his two great interests by working with computers for the Scouts.
Matt Shepard —
Honor Camper… Honor Patrol… Order of the Arrow… Brotherhood… Outdoorsman… Eagle Scout
TROOP SEVENTEEN IS MIGHTY PROUD OF MATT SHEPARD