The National Sea Scout Support Committee announces the selection of Mercedes Matlock of Frederick, Maryland as the 2017-2018 National Sea Scout Boatswain. Her term of office will be from June 1, 2017 through May 31, 2018 She is a member of Ship 59, SSS Sea Dogs, chartered by the YMCA of Frederick, Maryland, of the National Capital Area Council, Boy Scouts of America.
Mercedes will be the youth representative for Sea Scouts across the United States of America. She will report to the National Commodore and the National Director of Sea Scouts. She will serve as the liaison to the Regional Boatswains and all other youth leaders.
Mercedes is an Able Scout, and has completed her quartermaster project and is waiting upon approval from council to have her board of review. During her time as a Sea Scout, she has served as her ship’s Boatswain Mate of Program, Boatswain, and Purser, and the Northeast Region Boatswain Mate and Boatswain. She has worked as a camp counselor for three years at Boy Scout Camp Airy. She has served as a youth leader for Camp Lifeguard and is also a member of Crew 1998, a shooting sports based crew. She has earned her religious emblem and the Girl Scout Bronze and Silver awards.
Mercedes has participated in several training programs to develop her skills as a leader. She graduated from both NYLT training (National Youth Leadership Training), and SEAL training (Sea Scout Advanced Leadership) courses. She has developed her seamanship skills by completing the Maryland Boating course, and competing in sailing regattas. She has earned the Mile Swim Award. She has earned certification as both a BSA, Red Cross lifeguard and Red Cross Waterfront lifeguard training. She has participated in the 2014 and 2016 William I. Koch International Sea Scout Cup and the 2013 and 2015 Northeast Regional Sailing Championships, earning 2nd and 3rd place finishes.
She attends Hampton University as a Pre-Med Biology Major in hopes of gaining her M.D. PhD. to become a Pediatric Cardiologist and complete medical research. She was recognized for academic achievement by being placed on the Dean’s list. She is a member of the Hampton University Varsity Sailing Team, Biology Club, Chemistry Club, Pre-Medical Club, and MAPS (Minority Association for Pre-Medical Students).
Mercedes’ overall goal is to expand awareness and recognition of Sea Scouting and represent Sea Scouts across the nation in the best possible manner. Her goals are to broaden the program by increasing the number of scouts, connecting the youth leaders from all regions, and increasing awareness of the program using social media by developing content for the Sea Scout YouTube channel.
Join us in congratulating Mercedes as the 2017-2018 National Sea Scout Boatswain!