National OA Chairman to Retire

Ed Pease to step down after seven years

On February 8th, Ed Pease advised the members of the OA Steering Committee of his decision to retire as chairman of the National Order of the Arrow Committee. He will step down at the conclusion of his current term, June 1, 2000.

In his remarks to the Steering Committee, Ed said:

"The Order of the Arrow is the strongest it has ever been. Our strategic plan in support of Scouting will insure that we grow stronger in the years ahead. The leadership of the National (OA) Committee and the dedication of our adult volunteers and youth members throughout the nation have made it possible, and I am excited about our future. "As we have worked to align the Order more closely with Scouting at every level of operation, one of the consequences has been a more concerted effort to move more people in and out the leadership roles at the national level. Because of the volume of direct service provided by our committee as compared to other committees, I do not believe that our system should replicate others -- but there is something to be gained from a mix of experienced leadership and new ideas. "I had anticipated that I would stay five years as Chairman. It has now been seven, and the time is right for someone else to assume these duties."

The Chairman of the National Boy Scout Committee has selected Brad Haddock from Wichita, Kansas, as the new national OA chairman. Brad is a nineteen-year veteran on the National OA Committee and is currently serving as the Vice-Chairman of Field Service.

Brad has an extensive Scouting and Order of the Arrow background. An Eagle Scout, he earned his God and Country Award, and has served as Council President, Council Commissioner, National OA Chief (1974-76), and the 1998 NOAC Chairman, amoung other roles. He has been honored with the Silver Beaver, Silver Antelope, Vigil Honor, Founder's Award, and OA Distinguished Service Award.

Revised 2/17/00.