by Mike Matzinger
T. Boone Pickens (1928 – 2019), the renowned oil magnate and philanthropist, maintained a profound connection with the Boy Scouts of America throughout his life, reflecting the values instilled in him during his youth.
Born in Holdenville, Oklahoma, in 1928, Pickens was introduced to the Boy Scouts at a young age. In his 2000 autobiography, Luckiest Guy in the World, he mentioned that his mother made sure his free time was spent in ways she considered productive, such as playing the clarinet, participating in sports, and becoming a member of the Boy Scouts of America.
Pickens cherished outdoor experiences, which he often attributed to his Scouting days. For instance, he recalled walking five miles to the Canadian River to earn a merit badge, a journey that left a lasting impression on him. He later noted that the Canadian River remained a significant part of his life, even as he sold his 64,809-acre Mesa Vista Ranch in 2017.
Demonstrating his commitment to Scouting, Pickens made a notable contribution in 2008. His T. Boone Pickens Foundation donated $250,000 to the BSA’s Last Frontier Council in Oklahoma. These funds facilitated the expansion of STEM programs at the Slippery Falls Scout Ranch near Tishomingo, Oklahoma, enhancing the educational opportunities for Scouts in the region.
Pickens often reflected on the lessons learned from Scouting, particularly the motto “Be Prepared.” He emphasized the importance of leading by example and imparting this principle to younger generations. In a 2019 Forbes article, he shared his approach to leadership, stating, “You lead by example… And one of the most important lessons I could imprint upon these young minds was the old Boy Scout motto: Be prepared.”