As Sadali Costa prepares for her senior year at Stow-Munroe Falls High School, she’s also being recognized as likely the first Sri Lankan American girl to receive Scouting America’s Eagle Scout rank, the organization’s highest honor.
After the Beacon Journal reported on Costa making history, the 17-year-old from Stow said she received an outpouring of congratulations and support from both her Scouting community and the Sri Lankan community.
“They’re all very happy and very excited that I’m able to bring that recognition to not only Scouting, but to the Sri Lankan community as well,” Costa said.
She even got invited to visit the Office of Congresswoman Emilia Sykes and receive a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition.
Visiting Rep. Emilia Sykes’ office
“As a trailblazer, Sadali has opened doors for young women and for the Sri Lankan American community alike, embodying the very best of the values Scouting instills: trustworthiness, loyalty, service and courage,” the recognition reads. “Her achievement stands as an inspiration to young people across Northeast Ohio and our nation.”
Costa said that visiting Sykes’ Akron office was a great experience that motivated her to continue working hard.
“I was very honored to receive such a recognition,” she said.
What’s next for Sadali Costa?
Costa’s parents immigrated here from Sri Lanka in 2007.
She became a Cub Scout in 2018.
That year, the organization, formerly known as Boy Scouts of America, began allowing girls to join Cub Scouts, the program for younger children. The following year, Boy Scouts rebranded to Scouts BSA and began allowing girls to pursue Eagle Scout recognition.
Costa currently serves as a junior assistant scoutmaster in Scouting America, mentoring younger scouts, and she is also involved in the Order of the Arrow, a Scouting America national honor society.
She’s still got a year left in Scouting America before she ages out, and she said she’s going to continue serving in leadership positions and helping others.
She was also invited to a National Jamboree in Sri Lanka, a large gathering of Scouts.
“I’m very glad for Scouting and that my accomplishments are able to inspire others and also help others gain recognition,” Costa said.
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Stow teen Eagle Scout earns congressional recognition
Reporting by Lauren Cohen, Akron Beacon Journal / Akron Beacon Journal
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By Lauren Cohen, Akron Beacon Journal | USA TODAY Network
