The Chickasaw Council is excited to invite you to the 2026 Bobby Dunlap Good Scout Award Dinner benefiting Scouting programs in Panola County. This year, we are proud to honor Joe Azar as our 2026 Good Scout of the Year.

Joe currently serves as CEO and Executive Director of Panola Partnership, where he leads the county’s economic development, tourism, and chamber initiatives. In this role, he works closely with local industries, businesses, and educators to strengthen the regional workforce and attract new investment to the community.

Prior to joining Panola Partnership, Joe held leadership positions within the Anheuser-Busch distribution network and previously spent nearly two decades in the music industry managing artists and touring productions. He earned a bachelor’s degree from University of Mississippi and a master’s degree from University of Southern Mississippi. Joe has also helped lead major regional projects including the NWCC Concourse workforce training center in Batesville and the Covenant Crossing retail development.

A former Scout with Troop 71 in Greenville, Joe continues to exemplify Scouting's values through his leadership and service to the community. He and his wife, Katie, are the proud parents of two children, Joey and Delaney, and are active members of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

Please be our guest and join us for this special evening as we celebrate Joe’s contributions to Panola County and recognize him as our Good Scout of the Year. The ceremony and dinner will be held at Batesville First Methodist Church on Thursday, May 28, at 6:00 PM.

If you cannot attend, please consider a donation in honor of Joe, and that will directly benefit Scouts in the Batesville area!