During the summer of 2022, Alex Meagher, a member of Boy Scouts Troop 32, started searching for a place to conduct his Eagle Scout project. Eagle Scout is the highest rank attainable for a Boy Scout. It can only be reached by demonstrating leadership and completing a significant community service project. Meagher knew just the thing. Having taken summer camps at the Dolan DNA Learning Center, he knew that Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory (CSHL), a leading science institution with a long history of public service, was right in his backyard.
After making inquiries, Meagher found CSHL receptive to sponsoring his project. But what would it be? He decided to build two picnic tables with four benches for CSHL faculty, staff, and visitors. This, he reasoned, would give scientists another spot to take in the campus’ inspiring natural surroundings.
Following two years of careful planning, organization, and construction, Meagher and his fellow scouts completed the project. On June 14, the picnic tables were unveiled at Cold Spring Harbor beach. Among those present was CSHL President & CEO Bruce Stillman. The Laboratory leader was clearly impressed by the scouts’ efforts. “Many of our employees will benefit from these picnic tables, so it’s fantastic,” he said. “I think it’s great for the scouts as well because they get to see and experience CSHL, and we are very pleased to have them.”
Reflecting on his experience, Meagher thanked CSHL for its involvement in the project. “The Eagle Scout project is an extensive process of planning, fundraising, and implementing over multiple months,” he said. “I am grateful for the tremendous support of CSHL, helping me navigate such a complex leadership project.” It’s a testament to not only the hard work of Troop 32 but also the values of leadership and community service that are central to both the Boy Scouts of America and CSHL.
Written by: Liam Trotman, College Intern | publicaffairs@cshl.edu | 516-356-8455