The 2025 New England Scot of The Year Awards Announcement
On December 4th, we celebrated the incredible contributions of individuals who have made a lasting impact on Scottish communities across New England. The New England Scot of the Year Awards honor leadership, dedication, and service to preserving and promoting Scottish heritage. This year’s winners exemplify these values:
Scot of the Year
Mark Blyth, a Dundee-born economist, is a leading Scottish voice in the global economic debate. As the William R. Rhodes ’57 Professor of International Economics and the Director of the Rhodes Centre for International Economics and Finance at the Watson Institute for International and Public Affairs at Brown University, he brings clarity to complex issues while contributing to major policy conversations. A noted author, commentator, and mentor, he elevates Scottish perspectives worldwide and strengthens the community through scholarship and public engagement.
Lifetime Achievement Award
Larry Bethune is a lifelong champion of Scottish culture whose work spans concerts, lectures, and the celebrated musical series Atlantic Seaway. A longtime Berklee College of Music leader and co-founder of Scots in New England, he brings history, music, and community to life across the region. His decades of creative, academic, and cultural service make him a cornerstone of the Scottish community today.
Organization Award
Founded in 1657, the Scots’ Charitable Society is the oldest charitable organization in the Western Hemisphere and has upheld its mission of Scots helping Scots for more than three centuries. With millions awarded in scholarships and relief, and cultural events like the Tartan Ball and Highland Games participation, Scots’ Charitable Society remains a cornerstone of support and tradition, preserving Scottish heritage for future generations. The award was accepted on behalf of Scots’ Charitable Society by Helen Sayles CBE.
Emerging Scot of the Year
Eryk Bean is a Grade 1 piper and New Hampshire native who strengthens Scottish culture across New England through performance, education, and craftsmanship. As owner of Gibson Bagpipes, he blends tradition with innovation to expand access to piping nationwide and elevate the art for the next generation.
Stay tuned for more updates and join us in continuing to honor and support our vibrant community!
A special Thank You to British Consul General to New England David Clay (pictured above with each winner), and his wife Sophie, who kindly hosted us at their residence in Boston.
We would also like to extend our thanks to our Event Sponsors below, without which, none of this would be possible:
