Michael joined Troop 17 in September of 2003 after achieving his Arrow of Light from Pack 499 at Spoede Elementary School. 

Michael’s scouting career launched like a rocket when he completed his First Class requirements in just six months and in subsequent advancements, he progressed in a steady and consistent manner towards his Eagle award. 

Michael’s leadership responsibilities included Den Chief for Pack 499, sixteen months as the Patrol Leader of the Eagle Patrol, an Instructor in the Troop’s Leadership Corps, and Senior Patrol Leader. While a patrol leader, Michael received honor patrol recognition while leading his patrol to the first place finish at the Pathfinder District Camporee – besting dozens of patrols from other troops. Michael capped his troop leadership career as Senior Patrol Leader – the troop’s highest youth leadership position.

Michael’s participation in the troop’s outdoor program has included campouts, camporees, hikes, and six  years at summer camp including achieving an honor camper award. In recognition of his camping and leadership skills, Michael was elected by his fellow scouts in 2005 to the Order of the Arrow, scouting’s national society for scout honor campers. 

In 2004, Michael completed the St. Louis Area Council’s National Youth Leadership Training course and in 2007, became a member of the Bakers, Troop Seventeen’s unique organization for older Scouts. 

Michael earned 24 merit badges, only 21 being required for Eagle. His list of optional badges reflects a variety of interests such as Wood Carving, Leatherwork, Wilderness Survival, and Indian Lore. He also qualified for the World Conservation Award. 

For his Eagle service project, Michael enlisted numerous scouts to help him construct shelves for the Jewish Family & Children’s Services. In the process Michael demonstrated admirable resourcefulness in completing his project. 

Michael has been a staff member of the Ladue High School newspaper for two years, played euphonium in the Ladue High School jazz band, and served as one of the managing editors and writers for the teen page of the Jewish Light. He has been a member of the Jewish Student Union for three years and a student member of the Jewish Community Relations Council in 2008-2009. 

Michael became a Bar Mitzvah in September of 2004 and achieved scouting’s Jewish Ner Tamid award in the spring of 2005. 

In his spare time, Michael enjoys fantasy sports, working out at the Clayton Community Center, traveling, and several types of music. 

Michael, a senior at Ladue High School, is an outstanding student with a cumulative 3.6 GPA. Michael especially likes math, journalism, and photography. He took all the photography classes offered at his school including the most advanced independent study class. In the summer of 2009, Michael worked as an usher at the Muny Opera in Forest Park.

Michael is a serious well-respected  member of the troop — a scout of rock-solid character who has been described as a willing learner who challenges himself. 

After high school, Michael is looking at several universities with a view towards pursuing a business degree with a possible minor in journalism.

Michael Gorin —

Honor Camper… Honor Patrol… Order of the Arrow… Baker… Scholar… Photographer… Journalist… Eagle Scout

TROOP SEVENTEEN IS MIGHTY PROUD OF MlCHAEL GORIN