by the unit commissioner periodically visiting the unit and serving as the link with the District and Council. In a 1960 study by the University of Michigan measuring various aspects of Scouting in the U.S., approximately two-thirds of Scoutmasters surveyed had an awareness of their local commissioner, with the commissioners' function perceived to be mostly assistance with program planning, troop visitation, and district liaison. A lesser percentage responded, "participation on troop committee", "work with the boys", and general help, as functions performed by the commissioner for their unit. Boy Scouts of America Commissioner Service is the group within the Boy Scouts of America that provides direct service to each Scouting unit (pack, troop, team, crew or ship). Commissioners are experienced Scouters who help chartered organizations and unit leaders to achieve the aims of Scouting by using the methods of Scouting. They help to ensure that each unit has strong leadership and they encourage training, promote the use of the unit committee and encourage a relationship with the chartering organization. The Commissioner position is the oldest in Scouting and is the origin of the professional Scouter positions. From its inception, the commissioner has been a volunteer expected to work with and encourage Scoutmasters, along with a council's paid Scout Executive. The first national commissioner was Daniel Carter Beard, who served in that role for thirty-one years, between 19101941. The current National Commissioner since 2020 is W. Scott Sorrels. He succeeded Ellie Morrison, the first female national commissioner. Other previous national commissioners include George J. Fisher between 19431960 and Earl G. Graves Sr., the first African-American to serve as national commissioner (19901995). See also Scout leader References Commissioner Positions of authority