This New Scouting Award Honored Two Outstanding Educators

Did you know a significant percentage of new Scouts come from our partnerships with local schools? The Elbert K. Fretwell Outstanding Educator Award honors those who help Scouting flourish in our local schools and communities across the country.

This new award recognizes educators for their demonstration of Scouting values in their professional role. The award may be presented to any individual associated with a school: teachers, administrators, staff members or school board members. The recipient need not be a member of the Scouting movement, but should make a positive contribution to the mission of a school system as they demonstrate the values of Scouting.

The Fretwell Award is named for Dr. Elbert K. Fretwell, the second Chief Scout Executive of the Boy Scouts of America. As Professor in the Teacher’s College of Columbia University Dr. Fretwell created the earliest courses for Scouting professionals. This year we honored two educators at the 2017 National Annual Meeting in Orlando, Florida. Continue reading to learn more about these recipients’ accomplishments in education.

Dr. Barbara Jenkins has been dedicated to serving the needs of students for more than 25 years. She was named superintendent for Orange County Public Schools in 2012. Dr. Jenkins is a recognized education leader. She was named the 2017 Florida Superintendent of the Year and was one of four finalists for National Superintendent of the Year. The Orlando Business Journal honored her as a CEO of the Year in 2015. In 2014, she was named the Visionary Award recipient by the Girl Scouts of Citrus Council. Recognized for her commitment and influence, both the Orlando Sentinel and Orlando Magazine have named her as one of the 10 most powerful people in Central Florida; She is also the past vice president of Learning for Life for the Central Florida Council.

Dr. Sandy Shugart has served since 2000 as the fourth president of Valencia College in greater Orlando, Florida.  As winner of the first Aspen Prize for Excellence, Valencia is one of the most celebrated community colleges in America. Prior to Valencia, Sandy served as president of North Harris College and as Vice President and Chief Academic Officer of the North Carolina Community College System. He earned his Ph.D. in Teaching and Learning from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. In addition to his career in education, Dr. Shugart is a published poet, songwriter and author. One of his mentors while pursuing his professional career was E.K. Fretwell Jr. son of Elbert K. Fretwell the namesake for this award. Dr. Shugart is grateful for the strong influence Scouting had on his character development.

Congratulations, Dr. Barbara Jenkins and Dr. Sandy Shugart! Give these Scouters your best wishes in the comments below.