Boy Scouts name RIT President Dr. Albert J. Simone Citizen of the Year

The Otetiana Council, Boy Scouts of America, have named RIT President Dr. Albert J. Simone the 2003 "Distinguished Citizen of the Year," and awarded David C. Hoselton the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award.

The Distinguished Citizen Award is given annually to an individual who exemplifies the ideals of the Boy Scouts of America, as expressed in the Scout Oath and Law. Recipients are chosen for their outstanding community service and the respect and esteem they earn from their colleagues in the area, said Otetiana Council President Don Jeffries.

"Dr. Simone was selected because he is truly a great leader in the Rochester community," said Jeffries. "As we have gone through some tough economic times, Dr. Simone has shown great leadership by helping Rochester’s economic recovery. He has promoted RIT and the region, bringing projects to this area that will help stimulate growth." Former Citizen of the Year winners includes B. Thomas Golisano, Mayor William A. Johnson, Jr. and former Sheriff Andrew P. Meloni.

The Distinguished Eagle Scout Award is bestowed upon individuals who have previously earned the Eagle Scout Award more than 25 years ago, distinguished themselves in their life work, and who have established an exemplary record of voluntary service to their community. The Distinguished Eagle Scout Award is the highest honor administered by the National Eagle Scout Association. Recipients are nominated by their local Council and reviewed by a national panel of volunteers and fewer than 50 are approved each year, according to Otetiana Council Scout Executive Larry Pritchard. "David Hoselton embodies the true spirit of Scouting. It has carried through into his life, his career, his accomplishments and most of all, his outstanding service to others," said Pritchard. Past recipients of the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award include Joseph G. Calabrese, Thomas S. Richards and David H. Klein.

Mr. Hoselton and Dr. Simone were presented their respective awards at the Otetiana Council’s 32nd annual Campership Dinner, held June 19 at the Rochester Riverside Convention Center. This year’s dinner netted over $60,000. Proceeds from the event benefit Scouts in need of financial assistance that wish to attend one of Otetiana Council’s two summer camps. As a result of this year’s dinner, more than 230 young people will receive assistance through the Campership program.