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Dozens filled the hall — proud Scouts, families and friends — cheering on a historical milestone in local scouting. Troop 507, under Scoutmaster Mann Shoffner, proved once again that the rank of Eagle Scout is more than just a collection of badges — it’s a testament to nonstop leadership and dedication.
In a landmark event on March 7 at Crawford Memorial Church in Winchester, Troop 507 celebrated Isabella Bogovich, Madison von Mering, and Renee Lubomirski as the first three female Eagle Scouts in its history.
In attendance was Rep. Michael Day, who presented the three young women with official citations from the Massachusetts House of Representatives.
“Eagle Scouts on their own are incredibly impressive individuals,” Day explained to the crowd. “These are folks who will be future leaders in our community and I’m looking forward to seeing where they go in the not too near future.”
The ceremony featured moving speeches from each of the three new Eagle Scouts, reflecting on both their experiences and growth through their hard work in the program.
Left, Troop 507 Scoutmaster & Committee Chair Deb Miller and Scout Clara Peschel join the new Eagle Scouts. Right, Troop 507 Scoutmaster Mann Shoffner proudly stands with the Eagle Scouts. COURTESY PHOTOS/RENEE LUBOMIRSKI
Bogovich took the stage first to reflect emotionally on her journey, beginning with a friendly pact to race a friend to the rank of Eagle Scout. She recalled the intimidation of walking into a room of 60 boys when she started, yet expressed her deep gratitude to the older Scouts and leaders who immediately made room for her.
“Scouting has given much more than just badges and campouts,” Bogovich shared with the audience. “It’s gonna be confidence, community, and determination, I’ll carry on long after today.”
Von Mering spoke fondly of her journey, calling it “one of the best decisions I ever made.” She expressed gratitude to her parents and siblings who supported her every step along the way, from camping trips to navigating the hurdles to earn her badges.
Turning to her fellow Eagle Scouts, von Mering highlighted the strong sisterhood they had formed throughout their years.
The Lubomirski family, left, the Bogovich family and the von Mering family celebrated with their daughters after they were named the first female Eagle Scouts in Troop 507. COURTESY PHOTOS/RENEE LUBOMIRSKI
“Doing this experience with you has been nothing short of incredible. The summer camps, community service, and other adventures we have had, we have had such a great time,” reminisced von Meeting fondly. “I never disliked coming to meetings, even when I had lots to do, because I knew I had to hang out with you both.”
Lubomirski’s journey saw her rise through the ranks, eventually becoming the troop’s Senior Patrol Leader. She expressed her gratitude to her family and friends for supporting her every step of the way. For her Eagle Scout project, Lubomirski organized over 200 volunteers to plant trees on a rainy day, a crowning moment in an already extensive career.
But it was really the people that Lubomirski did it with that became the core of her scouting experience.
“Being part of a large group of supporting members, both in and out scouting, is what makes our troop so special,” said Lubomirski, adding it was that sense of family.
Bogovich, von Mering, and Lubomirski now join a group of elite youth who have reached the pinnacle of the scouting program. As the first female Eagle Scouts in Troop 507’s history, their dedication, and leadership are paving the way for future generations of girls in Winchester and throughout the country to follow in their footsteps.
Xiyue Eric Han is a student at Winchester High School. He has been an intern with Winchester News since summer 2025.
