MMA’s Merit Badge University 2026 Brings Rare, Summer Camp–Level Experiences to Nearly 500 Scouts

Missouri Military Academy (MMA) welcomed nearly 500 Scouts, leaders and family members from Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa, Missouri and Kansas to campus March 20–22, 2026, for its annual Scouting America Merit Badge University.

Participants explored 30 merit badge classes across MMA’s 288-acre campus, including rare, high-demand opportunities not typically available outside of summer camps. Through hands-on experiences at the Academy’s climbing wall and rappel tower, indoor pool, rifle range and equestrian facilities, Scouts were able to complete badges such as climbing, horsemanship, swimming and riflery.

Scouts participate in hands-on horsemanship training during Merit Badge University.

This year’s event also saw the highest number of Scouts camping on MMA’s campus and back campus to date, further enhancing the immersive, outdoor learning experience. MMA hosted 225 registered campers out of the total number of attendees.

A Scout climbs the rock wall during a merit badge activity.

Throughout the weekend, MMA cadets played a central role in supporting the event and modeling leadership in action. MMA’s Scout Troop 1889 worked alongside MMA faculty, staff and local and regional Scout volunteers to complete badge requirements and support the on-campus event. From directing traffic and welcoming guests to assisting with campsite setup and guiding visitors across campus, cadets ensured operations ran smoothly. During the opening ceremony, MMA’s Color Guard and Fusileers drill team delivered a precision performance that drew praise from attending veterans.

Cadet Peter Jokiel demonstrated exceptional confidence and leadership as he led the Pledge of Allegiance, Scout Oath and Scout Law. Additional cadets — including Dominic Roberts, Levi Foster, Santiago Maes, Daniel Bravo and Emiliano De La Garza — provided critical support in logistics, guest services and post-event cleanup, often with minimal oversight.

“I could not be prouder of the effort and dedication exhibited by our MMA staff, faculty and cadets,” said MMA Troop 1889 Scout leader and MMA faculty member Eric Evertson, who organized the event. “The MMA team was on point. Cadets embraced professional leadership with our guests in both manner and speech and consistently showed up prepared and ahead of schedule.”

The success of the weekend reflected a true campus-wide effort. MMA facilities staff prepared back campus for overnight camping, while canteen staff created a welcoming, family-friendly environment. Faculty and staff led engaging, educational sessions across a wide range of topics, including the following:

• George Davison led Railroading Merit Badge.
• Melba Lackey taught Disabilities Awareness, featuring a guest expert, helping Scouts build empathy through hands-on activities.
• Chris Schafer taught International Population, incorporating presentations from MMA’s international cadets.
• Michael Pemberton and Melissa Miller instructed Citizenship in the Nation.
• CJ Landrum led American Business.
• Matt Jackson taught Photography Merit Badge.
• MAJ Wayne Welander, USA (Ret), instructed Horsemanship.

Through events like Merit Badge University, MMA continues to extend its mission beyond campus — developing young leaders, fostering character and creating meaningful learning experiences rooted in its 360° Education model.

A Scout participates in a hands-on art activity.