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Counselors & Mentors

Nova Counselors

  • Must be age 21 or older
  • Register as a Nova Counselor (position code 58, non-unit position, no registration fee) using the BSA Adult Application
  • Must complete BSA’s Youth Protection Training before working with youth
  • Should complete Nova Counselor training online

Supernova Mentors

  • Must be age 21 or older
  • Must be subject matter experts in a STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) field
  • Register as a Supernova Mentor (position code 52, non-unit position, no registration fee) using the BSA Adult Application
  • Must complete and submit the Supernova Awards Mentor Information form to the local council service center
  • Must complete BSA’s Youth Protection Training before working with youth
  • Should complete STEM Supernova Mentor training online

Supernova mentors guiding Scouts through the Dr. Albert Einstein Supernova award should reference this guide.

Sample STEM / Nova Chair Position Description

Local councils may want to appoint a STEM/Nova Awards program chair. This can be a standalone position in support of districts, or responsibilities may be added to the program chair’s position description. Here are some responsibilities to consider.

  • Serve as the representative and spokesperson for the council’s STEM initiative and the Nova Awards program.
  • Offer personal endorsements and testimony to support the STEM initiative and Nova Awards program.
  • Help promote the STEM/Nova website, Facebook page, and STEM scholarships.
  • Identify prospective volunteers and key organizations and events that could help support the BSA’s STEM initiatives.
  • Ensure integration of the awards with all training opportunities, such as a “This Is the Nova Award” workshop.
  • Help organize council STEM-based events such as a STEM Merit Badge Day.
  • Integrate Nova awards with existing camp programs (merit badges, belt loops, pins).
  • Participate in conference calls, discussions, webinars, etc., to support the launch.
  • Prospect, meet, and recruit key STEM leaders in your community.
  • Help educate council staff and volunteers about the Nova Awards program and STEM initiative and about how they can help promote the program and initiative.
  • With the Scout executive at local council events, present youth members with the NOVA awards they have earned.

Questions? myscouting@scouting.org