This week, the San Francisco Bay Area “Walk Like MADD” Event website is featuring Scott Leister, Class of ’05, on their front page in the article entitled “Why We Walk.”  Scott was killed on August 17, 2008, when the car, in which he was a rear-seat passenger, was struck by a car going over 100 mph.  The driver was a 22 year old with a blood alcohol level over twice the legal limit.  You can support the “Scott Leister Friends and Family” walking team and read his story on the San Francisco Bay Area Walk Like MADD 2012 page.  Scott’s family have been active volunteers for MADD since 2008 and will be participating in another Walk Like MADD at Cesar Chavez Park this year.  Please join them on Saturday, June 2, 2012, or help them reach their fundraising goal of $7000 by clicking here.

Scott was a beloved member of the Athenian community and there are several ways in which Athenian keeps Scott’s memory alive.  Scott’s family created The Scott Leister ’05 Endowment for International Community Service, which allows Athenian students to take advantage of international travel opportunities that have a community service component, such as interim experiences, community service trips, and Round Square exchanges.  Scott was an avid adventurer; he went on several service trips during his time as an Athenian student.  He traveled widely during college and continued a lifestyle of service.

Additionally, Athenian honors Scott’s memory with the Scott Leister: Spirit of Athenian Soccer Award.  Scott played varsity soccer all four years at Athenian and was a valued member of the team,  for his athletic ability, game strategy, and team spirit.  One student is recognized annually for their love and compassion both on and off the field.

Scott scores a penalty kick against Head Royce in the 2006 Championship game.

The plaque reads: “We will teach our sons about Scott. We will cultivate in them the qualities he showed the world: Responsibility, Humility, Service, Play, Love. They will become men who live Scott’s message. They will teach their children about Scott and the values and qualities he embodied. Over and over again Scott will live in new lives. Like thousands of raindrops falling from the sky, his compassion and his play will keep dancing in this world and beyond.”

 This eulogy hangs framed in Kate and Dyke Brown Hall.