Each year, for a few short months, the National Eagle Scout Association (NESA) welcomes nominations for that year’s class of Distinguished Eagle Scout Awards (DESA). Established in 1969 by NESA, the DESA is the highest honor we bestow upon Eagle Scouts. The nomination window opens April 1 and closes precisely at midnight on July 31. However, many people are unsure of who qualifies for this prestigious honor or may feel intimidated by the nomination process. To help, we’ve put together a brief guide for those looking to nominate a deserving Eagle Scout.
Who Qualifies?
The purpose of the DESA is to recognize Eagle Scouts who achieve extraordinary national-level recognition, fame, or eminence within their profession and/or service to the nation and have a strong record of voluntary service to their community.
The nominee must be an Eagle Scout and at least 25 years must have passed since their Eagle Board of Review date. However, service to Scouting is not required. We focus on the impact the Eagle Scout has made throughout their life using the foundational leadership skills they learned as a Scout.
In discussing the nomination process with Glenn Adams, current Chair of the DESA Selection Committee and former NESA National President, he shared this key insight:
“A nominee must not only be outstanding in their field and among the top in the country, but they must also be recognized for national or international eminence—having truly changed or improved an industry.”
What Does National Recognition, Fame, or Eminence Look Like?
Let’s break that down. To establish a nominee’s national-level recognition, fame, or eminence, substantial evidence is required. This means more than a “Who’s Who” list alongside hundreds of others. Rather, look for prestigious awards that are rare in their field and impact that has made real positive change. Recognition should come from peers for innovation, impact, and transformative contributions to their industry.
For every achievement listed in the nomination, supporting documentation is necessary. This includes copies of awards, records of recognition, and letters from career superiors or prominent national figures within the nominee’s industry, attesting to their influence and contributions. Anything that will help the selection committee have a full and clear understanding of the nominees recognition, fame, or eminence.
The Three I’s: Involvement, Impact, and Influence
When crafting the nomination, focus on the three I’s:
- Involvement – Are they merely members of organizations, or have they held key leadership positions?
- Impact – What measurable changes have they driven in their field, community, or beyond? Is their impact at the local, state, national, or international level? The broader the reach, the stronger the case.
- Influence – How have they strengthened their community or industry? Have they mentored others into leadership roles?
Final Considerations
Make sure the nomination is well-written, error-free, and clearly presents the nominee’s achievements. Additionally, highlight other significant contributions such as patents, national or international recognition, and lasting influence in their field. Not only does this assist in the Selection Committee’s review, but it helps NESA and the Local Council to tell the story of the DESA Nominee, and hopefully recipient, in press releases, social media, and other avenues in the future.
Hopefully, this encourages you to seek out Eagle Scouts who are recognized for their distinguished service and achievements, nominate them through their local councils, or reach out to your local council to support their DESA nomination efforts for this prestigious honor.
