Eric and Nicole Evertson Named New Scout Leaders for MMA’s Troop 1889

Meet Eric and Nicole Evertson, Scout leaders for MMA’s Scout Troop 1889!

"Eric truly understands leading, teaching and connecting with young men," said MMA President Brigadier General Richard V. Geraci, USA (Ret). "He is an outstanding role model, not just for our cadets but for all of us. Combined with Nicole's background and experience, they make a wonderful team to guide and mentor our cadets."

A Legacy of Outdoor Adventure and Mentorship
Eric Evertson, MMA science instructor, brings a wealth of outdoor experience and a passion for Scouting to his new role as Scout leader. Growing up in rural southwestern New Mexico, Eric spent his childhood exploring the Gila National Forest, engaging in activities like hunting, fly fishing and horseback riding.

"Seeing an opportunity to gain more outdoor skills, I decided to join Boy Scouts of America (now Scouting America) when I was 12 years old," Eric says.

His Scout troop participated in diverse activities, from color guard to community service projects. At 15, Eric achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, and his dedication to Scouting deepened when he became a Project C.O.P.E facilitator, an experience he describes as "life-changing."

"Boy Scouts of America has instilled in me an ethic of working hard," Eric says. "When I was young, I had to pay attention to details, especially the details of rank requirements. This taught me that honor comes through having pride in fulfilling every requirement and setting a high standard."

Bridging Education and Scouting
Nicole Evertson, a canteen assistant at MMA, was introduced to Scouting during college when a friend invited her to work at a Scout camp in Arizona. As an outdoor enthusiast and education major, Nicole embraced the opportunity to spend summers in nature and work with children. She served two summers as an assistant aquatics director and one summer as a nature director at Camp Raymond.

"Growing up, I had a deep appreciation for the outdoors, and through my camp experiences, I saw the tremendous impact Scouting can have at both individual and group levels," Nicole says.

As a teacher, she values the bridge Scouting provides between education and personal development skills.

Though Scouting wasn't available to Nicole as a child, she appreciates the opportunities it offers to youth today. "I would like for as many MMA cadets to experience the value Scouting can add to their lives," she says.

A Shared Vision for MMA's Scout Troop 1889
Eric and Nicole Evertson are enthusiastic about their new roles and the alignment between Missouri Military Academy’s 360-degree educational model and Scouting America’s philosophy.

"It provides an opportunity for a young man to learn life skills through exciting opportunities and mentorships, and most importantly, personal growth," Eric says.

The Evertsons have two children, ages 11 and 13, with their eldest son set to join MMA as a seventh grader this fall. Their commitment to Scouting and the MMA community promises a vibrant future for Scout Troop 1889.

Troop 1889
For more than 100 years, both Missouri Military Academy (MMA) and Scouting America have been helping young men reach their full potential through a curriculum of academic and leadership skills and by imparting values of duty, honor and selfless service. MMA Troop 1889 offers fun and challenging experiences that enhance character development and leadership skills.

Membership in MMA’s Scout troop is open to all MMA cadets. Progress within the Scouts can positively impact a cadet's rank advancement within the MMA corps, further enhancing their leadership journey. The commandant’s office is notified of merit badges earned and Scout advancement, and MMA staff support cadets in their pursuit of MMA leadership positions and aspirations for Eagle Scout.

Cadets who join Troop 1889 embark on a journey of growth, camaraderie, and service. Whether striving for Eagle Scout or simply looking to develop essential life skills, Troop 1889 is here to support Scouts every step of the way.