Honoring Excellence
Celebrating four remarkable honorees who have made an outstanding impact on the Scottish community across New England.
The 2025 New England Scot of the Year Awards Ceremony · December 4, 2025
Earlier this year, we had the privilege of recognizing four remarkable honorees whose dedication, leadership, and passion have made an outstanding impact on the Scottish community across New England.
From championing Scottish music and craftsmanship, to shaping global economic thought, to sustaining centuries-old traditions of generosity and service — our 2025 honorees represent the very best of our heritage.
The 2025 Honorees
Eryk Bean
A New Hampshire native and accomplished Grade 1 piper, Eryk owns and operates Gibson Bagpipes — the leading U.S. bagpipe manufacturer with over 40 years of heritage. A former Pipe Sergeant for NH Scot, he has performed at major competitions including the World Pipe Band Championships and the North American Pipe Band Championships. His commitment to instrument design, education, and expanding access to piping across the country exemplifies the entrepreneurial and musical spirit at the heart of Scottish heritage.
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Scots’ Charitable Society
Founded in 1657 in Saugus, Massachusetts, the Scots’ Charitable Society is the oldest charitable organisation in the Western Hemisphere, upholding “Scots Helping Scots” for more than three centuries. With over $3 million awarded in scholarships and $500,000 in direct relief, it remains a vital source of support — hosting the Tartan Ball, Highland Games events, and recently completing a major preservation project at Mt. Auburn Cemetery restoring historic Scottish funerary art and grounds.
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Mark Blyth
A Dundee-born economist, Mark serves as the William R. Rhodes ’57 Professor of International Economics and Director of the Rhodes Centre at Brown University’s Watson Institute. An award-winning author of Austerity: The History of a Dangerous Idea, Angrynomics, and Diminishing Returns, he serves on the Scottish Government’s Advisory Council for Economic Transformation and is a Patron of the Scottish International Educational Trust, supporting students pursuing study abroad.
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Larry Bethune
A lifelong champion of Scottish culture, Larry produced the celebrated musical series Atlantic Seaway, exploring how traditional Scottish music shaped American country, folk, and pop. Beyond 48 years as Vice President at Berklee College of Music — competing in Highland heavy events, serving with the New England Patriots, and leading political campaigns — Larry co-founded Scots In New England, helping build the very community we celebrate today.
Read Full Profile →Nominations Now Open
Know someone making an extraordinary impact on Scottish heritage and culture in New England? We want to hear from you.
Submit a Nomination →