Frequently Asked Questions

Question: NESA Pittsburgh or NESA National?

There is some confusion about the difference between these organizations. They each provide a similar, yet separate service to Eagle Scouts. NESA National has it's own membership costs and associated value proposition. NESA National's website can be found at Home - The National Eagle Scout Association (nesa.org)

NESA Pittsburgh Chapter is the local sanctioned chapter of this National organization, with a license to operate on it's own merits, with it's own unique programming and separate membership cost which are accessible by our local constituency. NESA National not only recognizes the NESA Pittsburgh Chapter as it does the other BSA Council-based Chapters throughout the United States, but has lauded our chapter as a model local Chapter for the robust programming and events that we offer. 

NESA Pittsburgh is chartered by the Laurel Highlands Council and works to advance Scouting at the local level with our troops, districts and the Laurel Highlands Council. Again, both the National and the Local (Pittsburgh Chapter) NESA organizations have separate dues and while we encourage you to join both, we especially look forward to your membership as we can promise tangible, accessible value via regional-based programming & events. 

NESA Pittsburgh Chapter membership is free for Eagles 25 and younger, $25 for a yearly membership or $290 for a Lifetime member.

Question: Where can I learn more about NESA Scholarships?

Scholarships are awarded to Eagle Scouts who have shown active participation in school, Scouting activities, and community service, and who demonstrate they understand the fundamentals of service to community, service to Scouting and their character. They should also demonstrate that, if they have a financial need, what distinguishes their financial need from others.

• One recipient will be selected for a four-year $48,000 Lawrence S. and Mabel Cooke Scholarship (up to $12,000 per year for four years).
• Four recipients will be selected for a four-year $25,000 Lawrence S. and Mabel Cooke Scholarship (up to $6,250 per year for four years).
• One recipient will be selected from each NST for a one-year $10,000 Lawrence S. and Mabel Cooke Scholarship.
• One recipient will be selected from each NST for a one-year $5,000 National Eagle Scout Association Endowment Scholarship.
• One recipient will be selected from each NST for a one-year $4,500 Hansen & Mary Hall Scholarship.
• One recipient will be selected from each NST for a one-year $3,500 Lester S. McElwain Eagle Scholarship, Robert and Rebecca Palmer Eagle Scout Scholarship, or National Eagle Scout Association Legacy Society Scholarship.

Apply and Learn More at: https://nesa.org/scholarships

NESA Scholarship Flyer: NESA_Scholarship_Flyer_2023_231109.pdf