Disney Dreamers Academy to Host Virtual Event for 2020

Annette Gibbs

by , Public Relations Manager, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products

We have exciting news about the 2020 Disney Dreamers Academy! The immersive, transformational program for 100 high school students will take place virtually this fall and, for the first time in its history, offer career shadow externships for all 100 members of the class.

Like past Disney Dreamers Academy events, the virtual experience will deliver life lessons and tools such as effective communication techniques, leadership skills and networking strategies. This version of the program will do so with self-paced workshops, interactive video-conferencing sessions, networking opportunities and more, led by top speakers and industry professionals.

Following the virtual experience, all 100 students will experience career shadowing externships based on their dream professions, getting personal insights and advice from mentors.

Disney Signature Experiences vice president and Disney Dreamers Academy executive champion Tracey D. Powell announced the news Aug. 5, 2020, at the virtual National Association of Black Journalists/National Association of Hispanic Journalists convention.

The original, in-person 2020 Disney Dreamers Academy program was canceled when Walt Disney World Resort temporarily closed during the pandemic.

Powell said, “We were disappointed to have to cut this year’s event short dueto the pandemic, and we knew we had to create something extra special for this outstanding group of high school students. We expect this experience will deliver an impactful and inspirational experience just as the traditional program has done for more than a decade.”

Disney Dreamers Academy is a four-day, transformational mentoring program that brings teens from across the United States to Walt Disney World Resort for an immersive education and mentoring experience. Since the program debuted in 2008. Each class of 100 teens is selected from among thousands of applicants. The free program encourages participants to“Be100” – to be positive and “all in,” and to pursue their dreams and make a difference in the lives of others.

More details to come as we roll out the program. To stay up to date, follow Disney Dreamers Academy at Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.