A 17-year-old teenage girl has become the first woman in New Mexico’s Valencia County to achieve the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. Gabrielle Montoya, a resident of Valencia, N.M., made history by attaining the highest honour in Scouting after dedicating five years to achieving this goal. She joined Scouting at the age of 11 and is a founding member of Troop 831, which was established following the Boy Scouts of America’s decision in 2019 to include all-girl troops under the BSA program. Montoya, who was honoured at a ceremony at the Los Lunas Cornerstone Church of the Nazarene in August, expressed her excitement at being a trailblazer for other girls in the county.
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Montoya revealed that while she encountered challenges and experienced moments of doubt during her Eagle Scout journey, the thought of paving the way for other girls kept her motivated. She shared her enthusiasm, stating, “This is super cool to be able to pave a path and make history.” Initially drawn to Scouting due to her love for the outdoors and animals, Montoya discovered a passion for service and leadership through the program. She emphasised the practical aspect of learning leadership skills in real-life situations, which she found different from traditional school-based opportunities like student council.
To qualify for the Eagle Scout rank, Montoya undertook the challenge of earning 21 merit badges, an impressive feat considering she accumulated 48 badges. Additionally, she organised and executed a community service project, overseeing a team of 24 individuals who repurposed old tires into dog beds donated to the Valencia County Animal Services shelter. Reflecting on her project, Montoya expressed how the initiative resonated with her love for animals, describing it as a “super artistic project.” As a senior at the Albuquerque Institute for Math and Science (AIMS) charter school, Montoya plans to complete her associate degree at Central New Mexico Community College before pursuing a four-year degree in biology with aspirations of working in veterinary medicine.
During an interview with KOAT, Montoya offered advice to girls aspiring to achieve Eagle Scout status, encouraging them to take the leap and pursue their goals. Her success not only represents a personal achievement but also a significant milestone for her Scout sisters and biological brothers. At the ceremony honouring her achievement, Montoya acknowledged her fellow Scouts, highlighting their collective learning experience. The young Eagle Scout proudly declared the Scout oath, culminating in an emotional group hug with her Troop 831 sisters.
In conclusion, Gabrielle Montoya’s remarkable accomplishment serves as an inspiration to young girls interested in Scouting and showcases the importance of dedication, perseverance, and the pursuit of one’s passions. Her journey to becoming the first female Eagle Scout in Valencia County exemplifies the spirit of determination and leadership that defines the Scouting movement. Montoya’s story reminds us all of the impact one individual can have in breaking barriers and making history, opening doors for future generations of young women to follow in her footsteps.