The Grand Knight is responsible for the overall welfare of the council.   The grand knight must provide thoughtful and inspired leadership to the 14 other council officers, the Service Directors, chairmen and members of the council.   More specifically, his duties include: presiding over council meetings, appointing membership and program directors, acts as an ex officio member on all committees, including membership of recruitment and retention committees while making sure all required reports are submitted on time.   The grand knight represents the council at Chapter meetings and the annual state convention. 

The Grand Knight's jewel is an Anchor which is suspended from a purple ribbon.   Anchor is indicative of Admiral Christopher Columbus and has also been a variant form of the Cross for centuries.   The Grand Knight's ceremonial officer robe is royal purple.   He wears a white cincture with silver fringe and a purple mantle with white roll collar.