5 Quick Questions with: Tim Keller, Eagle Scout and Albuquerque mayor

Before he became the mayor of Albuquerque, N.M., Tim Keller became an Eagle Scout.

Keller, now 40, received Scouting’s highest honor on Aug. 10, 1995, as a member of Troop 285 in Albuquerque, part of the Great Southwest Council.

The man in charge of New Mexico’s largest city (population: 559,277) took time out of his busy schedule to answer my 5 Quick Questions last week. He discussed his summer as a Philmont staffer, what he learned from Scouting, his advice for today’s Scouts and more.

Bryan on Scouting: What did you like best about Scouting?

Tim Keller: I had so many great memories from my time as a Boy Scout. Any time I got to get out into nature, even if it was just a brief period of time, was so important to me and remains so today. I got to travel across the state when I was state auditor, and I would make it a point to get out into nature, even if it was a quick stop at Elephant Butte just to feel grounded.

BOS: What was it like being on staff at Philmont?

TK: I had so many great memories there that it makes it difficult to narrow it down to just one favorite. The sense of community I built with the staff and Scouts is something I will always cherish.

BOS: Did Scouting help prepare you for a political career? If so, how?

TK: Definitely. As a Scout, you learn to not only be hard working and self-sufficient but also to be a team player — which are all integral skills for being an elected official. While I haven’t always aligned with the Boy Scouts of America politically, Scouting instilled in me a respect for the outdoors, the value of helping others and a roadmap for being a good citizen of the community, which I feel are all great skills for being a good public servant.

BOS: What advice would you give today’s Scouts?

TK: Stick with it. The skills you learn in the Boy Scouts will prepare you for any path you take.

BOS: How do you use Scouting in your everyday life?

TK: As you know, the motto of the Boy Scouts is to “Be Prepared,” and I have taken that to heart every day of my life. You may not have all the answers to what comes your way, but preparation and a clear work ethic to tackle those challenges is critical.