Laurie Ryan, who grew up in Drexel Hill and Havertown and graduated from Archbishop Carroll High School, is the President of the Exton Region Chamber of Commerce.

Ryan, who earned a bachelor’s degree in Food Marketing from Saint Joseph’s University, said that her proudest professional achievement is leading the ERCC and being a part of something so great.

“When I think of my 40-ish-old self, a stay-at-home mom raising two great children while volunteering and working diverse part-time jobs, I would have never imagined the career trajectory that unfolded,” she said. “Throughout the past 15 years, I’ve encountered great people who developed and supported me, gave me a chance, and cheered me on along the way. The offer to manage the chamber that I loved was an opportunity I could never have imagined.”

Ryan has found that, to be successful, leaders must learn more about those they serve and manage.

“Determining their ‘who, why, what’ inspires motivation and inclusion and creates a ripple effect to support the mission,” she said. “I inspire others by getting to know them as individuals, directing my passion to what appeals to them, and encouraging involvement in something great.”

Of the 12 Principles of the Scout Law — Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly, Courteous, Kind, Obedient, Cheerful, Thrifty, Brave, Clean, and Reverent — “Helpful” resonates the most with Ryan.

“Being helpful is a principle that has had the greatest impact on my career and life,” she said. “My desire to meet people, learn more about them, and establish ways that I can help has built my network of friends and colleagues and contributed to a ripple effect of people providing connections and support that extends well beyond me.”

The Chester County Council, Boy Scouts of America will honor Ryan and the 11 other VISTA Leadership Megastars at an awards reception on Thursday, Oct. 20 at its new Program, Activity, and Resource Campus (PARC) in Exton. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. For more information, contact Lisa Antonucci at Lisa.Antonucci@scouting.org or 610-696-2900 x 112.