Dynamic Scouter, Public Speaker, Author Receives Scouting's Highest Honor for Service to Youth

Dallas, Texas, October 17, 2002—Renowned motivational speaker, author, businessman, and Dallas-area resident Zig Ziglar received the Silver Buffalo Award for distinguished service to youth from the Boy Scouts of America at a recent motivational/sales seminar, "Get Motivated," at Reunion Arena in Dallas.

Scouting's highest-ranking official, Chief Scout Executive Roy L. Williams, made the presentation to Ziglar before a capacity crowd of more than 20,000 people. Local Scouts from Circle Ten Council performed the flag ceremony and played the national anthem.

"Zig exemplifies all that is good in Scouting," said Williams. "We feel fortunate that he has dedicated so much of his life to helping our nation's youth."

The Silver Buffalo Award is presented annually to adults who generously dedicate their time and resources for the benefit of youth. This award, Scouting's highest commendation for service to youth, recognizes the invaluable contributions American men and women have made to our nation's young people.

Ziglar is one of the many noteworthy recipients to receive this award. Since 1925, many well-known individuals, including 13 U.S. presidents, artist Norman Rockwell, artist and film producer Walt Disney, founder and president of the Children's Defense Fund Marian Wright Edelman, and baseball Hall of Famer Hank Aaron, have received the Silver Buffalo Award.

"I enjoy the role I play in helping to mold the future leaders of this country," said Ziglar. "Motivating generations of young people to live up to their potential has truly been a reward, and Scouting aims to do the same."

Ziglar's participation in Scouting rounds out his professional and personal life. He has volunteered his time and sales expertise to the BSA, serving in varied leadership positions. In 1994, Ziglar was elected to the BSA's National Advisory Council; he is also a member of the national marketing committee.

A master of motivation, Ziglar is recognized as an authority on human potential. He has published 18 books, 11 of which have been on best-seller lists. He has spoken at engagements across the globe, sharing the lectern with U.S. presidents, national dignitaries, and entertainers.

Ziglar has received countless honors for his programs focusing on motivation, sales, leadership, and personal growth. He received the 1999 Toastmasters International Gavel Award, 1999 National Speakers Association Master of Influence Award, 1998 Harry S. Truman Distinguished Service Award from the American Association of Community Colleges, 1991 Communicator of the Year from Sales and Marketing Executives International, and 1985 Mississippian of the Year from the Mississippi Broadcasting Association.

Ziglar has been featured three times in the Congressional Record for his work with youth in the war against drugs and for his dedication to the free-enterprise system.

Scouting's programs are supported by 1.3 million volunteers working together for the sole purpose of helping its 5 million youth members succeed in life. The Boy Scouts of America's 92-year history is a testament to the enduring values of the Scouting program. For more information about the BSA and how to become involved in its outdoor adventure and service-oriented programs for youth, visit www.scouting.org.

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