CONSTANTIA – On Wednesday September 24th, the Longhouse Council held its September Executive Board meeting. This meeting is normally held in Syracuse, but was held this month at Camp Woodland. This special meeting included not only Executive Board members, but also members of the Council Advisory committee, Camp Woodland’s property committee, Council staff, and youth representatives from the Lowanne Nimat Lodge.
As Camp Woodland approaches its 100th Anniversary in 2029, the Council leadership team is beginning a planning process for major improvements to camp.
Members of the Executive Board tour the William Hillcourt Scouting Museum
As part of this planning process, the board members heard from key stakeholders, including the young leaders of the Lowanne Nimat Lodge and the Camp Woodland Property Committee.
L: Lodge Chief Rory H. and Vice Chief Alyssa B. give a presentation on their views as youth users of Woodland; R: Property committee member Eric Primrose speaks
Following the discussions about the future of Woodland, the board moved into its regular business regarding the Council’s membership growth campaign, finances, properties, and other matters.
Just as at any level of Scouting, the Council’s leadership is made up of dedicated adult volunteers. Along with the Executive Board, there is an Executive Committee that consists of the Council’s officers responsible for governance in the different aspects of the Council’s operation. At the meeting, nominations were made and approved to fill three vacant roles on this key leadership team. Lyle Halbert, who joined the executive board in June was named as Vice President of Administration. Past Council Presidents Tom Cooney and Nate Andrews also accepted new roles – as Vice President of Endowment and Chair of the Advisory Committee respectively.
Left to Right: Lyle Halbert, Nate Andrews, Tom Cooney
As the Longhouse Council looks ahead to the future of Camp Woodland and the Scouting movement in Central and Northern New York, this Executive Board meeting marked a meaningful step forward. By bringing together youth voices, experienced volunteers, and dedicated staff, the Council reaffirmed its commitment to collaboration and long-term vision. With new leadership roles filled and strategic conversations underway, the Council is well-positioned to prepare Camp Woodland it for its next century of service to young people.