When Matt Griffis made his way to NOAC, his only intentions were to come and have fun like every other participant. But because of unforeseen circumstances, he was appointed Western Region Chief. "Although it was very unexpected, I'm having a great time and it's wonderful to be able to experience NOAC in this capacity, which I didn't think I would have the chance to do," he said.
Matt, 19, served as Western Region Chief in 2003 and has previously served in several positions in Achewon Nimat Lodge, including being a two term Lodge Chief. He has also been the W-3A Section Chief. He is also a Vigil Honor member, a Founder's Award Recipient, and was presented with the Distinguished Service Award at the History and Recognition Show Sunday night.
But Matt is just excited to be back at Iowa State for the National Conference – the same place he made his first visit to NOAC at in 1998.
"Just seeing the sights I saw when I was a 12-year-old Arrowman brings back vivid memories, but being able to experience them in a different manner is really been what’s keeping me driven this week." His experiences in the Order have given him many opportunities to grow as a leader and as a person. Matt is also able to see leadership potential in other Arrowmen and does what he can to help them. "They can be told that they are leaders so they can develop their leadership skills and be inspired to serve better," he said.
When Matt is not Scouting, he enjoys playing guitar, hiking, camping, napping, drinking Coke Classic, and watching the Simpsons. He is also an environmental science major at the University of California – Berkeley. But while at the conference, Matt is simply looking forward to working "with some of the great Arrowmen around this country."
Revised 8/4/2004