From Delegate to DJ: Rob Ray's NAJAC Journey

Uncle Marv kicks off the episode by explaining the significance of NAJAC and why he's dedicating several episodes to this topic. He emphasizes the deep connections formed during the conference and how they've lasted for decades. 

Rob shares his NAJAC journey, starting in 1970 as a delegate and evolving into various staff roles. He recounts the origins of the popular dance events, from improvised basement parties to full-scale productions at the tennis courts and swimming pool. 

The interview highlights the inexplicable bond between NAJAC attendees, describing it as a connection deeper than those formed in high school or college. Rob emphasizes the difficulty in explaining this unique camaraderie to those who haven't experienced it. Rob discusses the logistical challenges of organizing NAJAC, comparing it to modern tech conferences and marveling at how they managed without today's technology. He also touches on the recent reunions, including the 2019 event that drew over 100 attendees. 

The episode concludes with Rob reflecting on the importance of these reunions and the bittersweet realization that the group isn't getting any younger, emphasizing the need to gather more frequently.

Links: 

• National Junior Achievement Conference Photo, Bloomington 1993 (I'm at the top left): https://tinyurl.com/mvvmtc3y
• Junior Achievement USA: https://jausa.ja.org/
• Archive of NAJAC Pictures at Indiana University: https://tinyurl.com/3h5v8pfv

 

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