John Fenimore 
Standing atop of Mount Baldy in New Mexico with his son, Professor of Management John Fenimore, a Scout Master since 1992, reflected that in scouting “memories are created forever.”
Fenimore has led four different groups of scouts to this favored spot in New Mexico through the years, among many camping trips he has led as a Scout Master. Along the way, he has helped more than 35 young men obtain Eagle Scout rank, including his three sons, Jack, Ross and Peter, despite never participating in scouting as a youth. His interest grew as his sons did.
Named a 2006 Eagle Class Honoree in recognition of his outstanding service, Fenimore has received several other scouting awards, including the Heroism Award and the Scout Master’s Key.
“My philosophy is whatever my kids are doing, I want to spend time doing it with them,” Fenimore said. “Scouting is unique in that you can do it together.”
The experience has created close relationships and has helped Fenimore stumble upon his true passion.
“I didn’t find my calling until mid-life,” Fenimore said. “I really like teaching.”
He ended up at Wittenberg purely through a scouting connection. He was told if he could teach scouting then he could teach accounting.
In the fall of 1999, Fenimore joined Wittenberg’s Department of Management to teach accounting and was later elected a three-year term as chair. He has found a strong connection between teaching the scouts and the students.
“Scouting is using the outdoors as a way to build character, which is not a lot different than in the classroom,” Fenimore said. “Scouting is about creating a mission, having a vision, learning group dynamics, management techniques and mentoring. It teaches leadership skills and teaches the young men to take initiative.”
He has found his experience to be very rewarding and hopes his efforts are making a difference.
“Scouting is showing the boys a path and how to get there,” Fenimore said. “The thing that keeps me going is the interaction with the boys.”