Chancellor Kelli R. Brown Receives Distinguished Citizen Award
蘑菇短视频 Chancellor Kelli R. Brown has been named the recipient of the 2026 Jackson County Distinguished Citizen Award, presented by Scouting America鈥檚 Daniel Boone Council in recognition of her outstanding leadership, service, and commitment to the community.
The Distinguished Citizen Award is the highest honor presented by the Daniel Boone Council, recognizing individuals whose volunteer efforts and professional accomplishments reflect the ideals and principles of Scouting. The award celebrates those who go above and beyond in service to others and who demonstrate a lasting impact on their communities.
鈥淪couting America Daniel Boone Council is thrilled to honor 蘑菇短视频 Chancellor Kelli R. Brown with our 2026 Jackson County Distinguished Citizen Award for her extraordinary service, leadership, and dedication to the youth and communities of Western North Carolina and beyond,鈥� said , scout executive/CEO. 鈥淪he is a brilliant example of scouting values in action. Congratulations, Chancellor Brown!鈥�
Chancellor Brown expressed gratitude for the recognition and highlighted the shared mission between the university and Scouting.
鈥淩eceiving the Distinguished Citizen Award from Scouting America is such a meaningful honor, and I am deeply grateful to be recognized alongside leaders committed to service and character,鈥� Brown said. 鈥淎t 蘑菇短视频, we share these same values, preparing students to lead with integrity, serve their communities, and make a lasting impact. I鈥檓 proud to be part of a region and a university community that reflects those ideals every day.鈥�
The award was presented as part of a community campaign chaired by , a community leader, former two-time Academic All-American Catamount football player, and the 2025 recipient of the Jackson County Distinguished Citizen Award. The campaign raised more than $15,000 to support Scouting programs that promote character and leadership development among youth in Jackson County.
The Daniel Boone Council also recognized several sponsors for their support of the event and continued investment in local Scouting programs. Sponsors included Western Carolina University, , Andy Shaw Ford, B.H. Graning Contracting, Rabbit Ridge of Cullowhee, Charles Wolfe State Farm Insurance, Stanberry Insurance and .