Gabriel Zepeda ’28 has been involved in scouting since the fifth grade — ever since his cousin and some friends encouraged him to join the Cub Scouts. In 2026, after a year and a half of dedication and hard work, Gabriel achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. To become an Eagle Scout, candidates must live out the Scout Oath and Scout Law, complete 21 merit badges, demonstrate responsible citizenship, complete a service project, and sit for a board of review. “My most valuable badge was blacksmithing because it taught me patience, but also how to work quickly,” he said. 

Gabriel’s Scout Master is former Steward teacher Ian Coddington.

“I didn’t realize Mr. Coddington had worked at Steward until about halfway through my Steward career,” said Gabriel. “This showed me how interconnected everything in our school community is and how character and reputation can inspire those around you.” 

Gabriel, a member of Steward’s varsity soccer team, varsity soccer team, and Upper School chorus, is proud to be a Scout “because of the skills that it has taught me and the way it has shaped me into the young man I am today. My one motivation to become an Eagle Scout was to make my mom [Middle School World Language Teacher Claudia Ramirez] proud.” 

Congratulations, Gabriel! You’ve made us all proud!