Meet Rylan!
The Order of the Arrow (OA), Scouting’s National Honor Society, thrives on dedicated leaders who inspire others with their passion and commitment. Among these leaders is Rylan, the recently elected Lodge Chief of Pa-Hin Lodge. Despite joining the OA only in 2024 and completing his Ordeal in May of that year, Rylan’s swift rise to leadership exemplifies how dedication, enthusiasm, and initiative can lead to remarkable achievements.
Rylan’s journey to Lodge Chief began with his induction just a few months ago. He wasted no time in immersing himself in the opportunities that the OA offers. Shortly after completing his Ordeal, Rylan attended the National Order of the Arrow Conference (NOAC), one of the largest gatherings of Arrowmen in the country. His rapid involvement highlights a powerful message: leadership within the OA does not hinge on years of tenure, but rather on a willingness to serve and lead with purpose.
When asked about his experience, Rylan shared, “Attending NOAC so soon after my Ordeal was an eye-opening experience. It showed me that leadership is about seizing opportunities and inspiring others, regardless of how long you’ve been involved. I want my story to encourage new members to jump into leadership roles and make a difference.”
As Lodge Chief, Rylan leads by example, fostering fellowship and engagement across his lodge. His unique combination of humor, humility, and vision has already left an impact. Despite describing himself humorously as an “Unemployed Vagabond and Full-time Side Character,” his actions speak volumes about his commitment to serving his fellow Arrowmen.
Beyond his OA role, Rylan is a well-rounded individual with a love for food and creativity. His favorite meals—seafood alfredo and butternut squash gnocchi—reflect a taste for diverse flavors, while his favorite color, olive green, mirrors his appreciation for nature and Scouting traditions. When it comes to music, his open-mindedness—simply described as “most music”—reveals his adaptable and inclusive personality. Looking ahead, Rylan has aspirations of attending West Point, further demonstrating his drive to lead and serve.
Rylan’s story is a testament to the fact that anyone, regardless of how recently they joined the OA, can make a meaningful impact. His journey shows that leadership is about initiative, passion, and a commitment to serve—qualities that any Arrowman, new or experienced, can embrace. Pa-Hin Lodge is fortunate to have such an inspiring leader at its helm, and the OA as a whole will undoubtedly benefit from Rylan’s vision and enthusiasm.