Narragansett Chapter Major Awards, Leader and Stewardship Award Winners 2011
Photos - Shannon Kelly


Narragansett Chapter AMC gives highest award to Tom Eagan
Bonnie accepts Tom's award from Robin. Tom was unable to attend due to a family commitment.

By Ed Poyer with contribution from Robin Kuznitz

The Appie of the Year is the Narragansett Chapter’s highest award. It is presented to a member who exemplifies the mission of the AMC to “promote the protection, enjoyment, and wise use of the mountains, rivers, and trails of the Appalachian region”. We present this Award to recognize a volunteer’s efforts and successes, to reinforce AMC ethics and culture and to inspire others to emulate our most generous and productive members.

This year’s Appie of the Year was presented to Tom Eagan. Tom exemplifies what it means to be an AMC member and leader. Tom has served in several of our Chapter’s key leadership positions, including 5 years as Treasurer, at least one term as Vice Chair and two years as Chapter Chair. Rather than ‘retiring’ as Past Chair, in 2011 Tom is once again serving as our Treasurer. Tom has contributed enormously to the Chapter in these roles, and can be counted upon to be a voice of reason and steadfastness.

In a rude age, Tom is a true gentleman who is terrific to work with. According to a professional and AMC colleague, “Tom is a results-focused leader who demonstrates and teaches the critical importance of collaboration, innovation, professionalism, and staying on schedule! He engages all members of the Executive Board and committees, and mentors leaders and members to fully participate and contribute to the work of the AMC.”

As Chapter Chair, Tom was recognized for his work at the AMC Chapters Committee which included facilitating the 2009 Chapters Retreat and contributing valuable insights and leadership to the Chapters Financial Task Force. Tom has also been recognized professionally, being named by Providence Business News as the Chief Financial Officer of the Year in 2011.

Tom has also served on committees for the Boy Scouts of America’s Narragansett Council, and has previously served on committees of the Rhode Island Community Food Bank, Bishop Hendricken High School and St. Francis de Sales Church. Tom is an avid outdoorsman, hiker, winter mountaineer and skier. Tom shares his love of the outdoors with future generations by reviving the Family Outings committee two years ago. Along with Debbie Mitchell, Tom is providing a sound structure to insure that this important committee grows and expands in the future. Tom’s interpersonal skills, such as his thoughtful and respectful demeanor and his outdoor skills serve as a role model to the youngsters lucky enough to join him on those events.


Mike Parker Receives Chapter John Clark Award

Our second highest award, the John Clark Award, was presented to Mike Parker for his tremendous contributions to our chapter through his tireless, very much behind-the-scenes work on existing trails in RI, as well as his impressive work designing and developing the new, beautiful Maxwell Mays Trail in Coventry RI. Elise DelBarone presented the award to Mike.

NARRAGANSETT LEADER SUMMARIES