July 9, 2023
Lillian Dahlstrom, who will be a sophomore at Gilbert High School this fall, isn’t afraid of a little — or a lot — of hard work. If her recent accomplishment is any indication, she actually thrives when she’s put to the test.
Her tenacity has paid off though. Late last month, she made a little bit of history.
On Sunday, June 25, Lillian was awarded her Eagle Scout by the Boy Scouts of America. It’s the highest rank achievable in Scouts BSA, and Lillian is the first female Eagle Scout of Gilbert Scouts BSA Troop 157. In the entire state of Iowa, fewer than 10 females have ever achieved this lofty status, and among all scouts in the United States, only six percent achieve the rank of Eagle.
So, yes, Lillian is indeed a trailblazer.
To receive the Eagle Scout, individuals are required to progress through six previous ranks, earn a minimum of 21 merit badges, and propose and complete a service project for the community. An over-achiever, Lillian actually earned 39 merit badges, 18 more than required, in activities such as swimming, kayaking, and communications. She also organized a food drive that collected more than 2,000 servings through donations.
For her Eagle Scout service project, Lillian constructed new shelving units for the Gilbert Backpack Buddies Program at Gilbert Lutheran Church.
Everyone at Gilbert applauds Lillian for her dedication to Scouts BSA, and for this lofty achievement. She is a positive role model for all of our students, and we’re so happy that she calls Gilbert Schools home.
Congratulations, Lillian!
