The Magic of NAJAC: Donna Ross and Rob Montgomery

Uncle Marv welcomes Donna Ross (formerly Donna Scarnecchia) and Rob Montgomery to reminisce about their experiences with Junior Achievement and NAJAC. Donna's journey began in high school in Orange County, California, where she participated in JA's after-school program for three years. She attended NAJAC as a delegate in 1968 and returned as a group counselor in 1969, leading her group to win "Best Group" in her first year - a rare accomplishment. 

Donna shares her experiences working with Disney as a liaison for JA initiatives and her involvement in a special JA speaker's corps sponsored by Reader's Digest. She emphasizes the unique bonds formed at NAJAC and the lasting impact of these relationships, noting that she still keeps in touch with her co-counselor from 1969. 

Rob Montgomery's involvement with NAJAC spans over two decades, starting as a delegate and progressing through various staff positions. He highlights the closeness of the NAJAC family, often surpassing relationships with people from one's hometown. Rob worked in several competition areas, including corporate secretary, vice president of sales, and conference officer selection. 

Both guests reflect on the beauty of the Indiana University campus and the nostalgia of returning for reunions. They discuss the logistical miracle of NAJAC, praising Jim Sweeney's organizational skills in expanding the conference from 60 to over 3,000 delegates. The episode underscores the lasting impact of NAJAC experiences, the strength of friendships formed, and the professional and personal growth fostered by Junior Achievement.

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Host: Marvin Bee ([e-mail]) 

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