West Virginia University
West Virginia University
A strategic partnership
West Virginia University (WVU) formally began partnering with Scouting America around 2019, when WVU launched its “Scouting Degree Programs.” These programs—which include degrees in Organizational Leadership and Adventure Recreation Management—were designed to prepare students for leadership roles in Scouting. The partnership has since evolved to create additional pathways for Scouts exploring leadership and career opportunities.
National and World Scout Jamborees
- 2013 National Scout Jamboree – For the first National Jamboree held at the Summit Bechtel Reserve, WVU supported the event by integrating its own faculty and students for staff support, offering forensic science exhibits, zip‑lining and cycling STEM stations. Scouts solved mock crime‑scenes and earned patches for participation.
- 2017 National Scout Jamboree – WVU organized hands‑on environmental, engineering and forensic science programs, including a STEM Quest and ECG demonstrations. WVU students and staff also provided staffing support through healthcare and first aid stations across the event.
- 2019 World Scout Jamboree – In 2019, Scouting America had the honor of hosting the World Scout Jamboree at the Summit Bechtel Reserve. WVU played a significant role in helping provide a robust and engaging experience for event participants. WVU staff and students staffed a Zip-line Education Station that taught Scouts the physics behind speed and motion; offered its legacy “Science Behind the Sport” programs, delivering hands-on science lessons tied to activities like archery, mountain biking, skateboarding, and rock climbing, integrating real-world physics and environmental concepts; supported event-wide healthcare stations and services, offering care and establishing a “Listening Ear” support component for homesickness and mental health—a program proved successful enough to be propelled across other Scouting America national events.
- 2023 National Jamboree – WVU faculty, students and staff facilitated the renowned ‘Science Behind the Sport’ program, which taught attendees STEM through adventure sports. WVU leverages its academics and Scouting's adventure components to leave a lasting impact on Scouting youth. WVU elevates the experience with custom patches, skateboards, and much more!
- 2026 National Jamboree –
- Scouting America and WVU have formed a strategic partnership to enhance Health and Wellness services at the 2026 National Jamboree. This collaboration focuses on expanding educational and research opportunities for WVU students and faculty while addressing the needs of Jamboree participants. Key areas of focus include: emergency medical, dental, and mental health services, alongside wellness programming. A diverse team of experts from both organizations will spearhead efforts in medical education and participant health strategies. The partnership includes action items such as involving medical students and residents in preceptorships, developing health education programs, and exploring innovations and efficiencies in care delivery. Additionally, the collaboration will emphasize novel mental health and wellness services.
- WVU plans to bring back its legacy Science Behind the Sport program for Scouts to continue to give Scouts hands on opportunities to learn and get excited about STEM.
Education Partnership
- In 2025, WVU announced a flexible Online MBA program at a discounted rate for Scouting America employees, allowing affordable access to an advanced degree program that works around professional responsibilities and schedules.
Merit Badge Educational Support
WVU has hosted Merit Badge University events in collaboration with Scouting America’s local Mountaineer Area Council since 2021
