IRVING, TX (May 28, 2026) – Scouting America is proud to announce the election of Ricky Mason as the new National Chair of the Scouting America National Executive Board. Mason succeeds Brad Tilden, who concludes his distinguished tenure as National Chair after providing steady leadership and strategic guidance to the organization.
“Ricky Mason brings a deep commitment to youth development and a proven record of leadership that will help guide Scouting America into its next chapter,” said Roger Krone, president and CEO of Scouting America. “His passion for empowering young people and strengthening communities reflects the very best of our movement. By equipping and empowering our local councils to work together, Ricky will help unlock new opportunities for Scouts everywhere, ensuring that young people across the country can experience the life-changing impact of Scouting and grow into the leaders our future demands.”
Mason has been an active supporter of Scouting America for many years, serving in a variety of volunteer and leadership roles. A Silver Buffalo and Distinguished Eagle Scout, Ricky is also a recipient of the National Human Relations Award presented by the American Jewish Committee, a global organization committed to the American ideals of democracy, pluralism and civil and human rights. Ricky recently retired as a senior partner in Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, where he drove business and government turnarounds worldwide over a nearly four-decade career. His experience, vision, and dedication position him to lead the Board in supporting growth, innovation, and program excellence nationwide.
“I am honored to serve as National Chair and to support the volunteers and professionals who make Scouting America such a powerful force for good,” said Mason. “Scouting changes lives, and I look forward to working with our Board and leadership team to expand our reach and impact for future generations.”
The organization also expressed its deep appreciation to outgoing National Chair Brad Tilden for his exceptional service. During his tenure, Tilden helped guide Scouting America through a period of transformation and renewal, reinforcing its commitment to safety and program excellence.
“We are profoundly grateful to Brad Tilden for his leadership and unwavering dedication to Scouting America,” said Mason. “His contributions have strengthened our organization and positioned us for continued success. We thank him for his service and lasting impact on the movement.”
Scouting America remains committed to delivering high-quality programs that prepare young people for life through character development, leadership training, and outdoor adventure.
About Scouting America
Scouting America provides the nation’s foremost youth program of character development and values-based leadership training, which helps young people be “Prepared. For Life.®” Scouting America welcomes all of America’s youth into its programs. Our goal is to give them fantastic experiences in the outdoors, and elsewhere, where they can grow with us in a safe environment. More than 130 million Americans have been through our programs since our founding, and nearly 1 million youth are served by 477,000 dedicated adult volunteers in local councils throughout the country. To learn more about Scouting America’s mission, or to sign your child up for Scouting, visit www.BeAScout.org.