Attendees at the 2017 National Jamboree will have the opportunity to hear from a variety of inspirational and informative speakers, courtesy of the National Eagle Scout Association (NESA).

Wendy Perrone, executive director of the Three Rivers Avian Center in Brooks, West Virginia, will kick off NESA’s Very Inspirational Presenters (VIPs) program. Perrone has been a partner of the BSA and NESA since the 2013 National Jamboree. In her talk, she will describe the work of the avian center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to wild bird conservation and educating and involving people in ecosystem stewardship.

Another NESA VIP will be Julie Seton, an author, communications consultant and the granddaughter of Ernest Thompson Seton, one of the early leaders of the Scouting movement in America. Her presentation will focus on her grandfather and the Boy Scouts of America.

Dana Amendola, a Distinguished Eagle Scout Award recipient and vice president of operations for Walt Disney Theatrical Group, will discuss “Behind the Scenes at Walt Disney and Upcoming Attractions” during his presentation. Gordon Gee, president of West Virginia University, will also deliver a presentation.

Those interested in a career in fire service or law enforcement will want to check out a panel discussion moderated by Lou Paulson, president of California Professional Firefighters. NESA also will host a Law Merit Badge day at the NESA Exhibit led by Vince Farhat, who co-founded the Los Angeles Area Council Legal Eagles Affinity Group.

On Saturday, July 22, NESA will host a five-Eagle Scout Congressional delegation. NESA also will host a Distinguished Eagle Scout Award presentation for Gregory Johnson, executive director of the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space. Terry Grove, the world’s leading authority on the history of the Eagle Scout award, will speak on the history of the Eagle Scout badge and medal.