LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. — Disney Dreamers Academy, now in its 16th year, kicked off at Walt Disney World on Thursday with a welcome ceremony that included Drum Major Mickey Mouse, celebrity ambassadors and excitement about what lies ahead for this year’s class of students.
What You Need To Know
- Disney Dreamers Academy runs through March 26
- The program has hosted more than 1,500 students since 2008
- Over the four-day event, the 100 students participating this year will hear from guest speakers and learn from leaders
- RELATED: Disney Dreamers Academy returns to Disney World this week
The program, which began in 2008, is a unique career networking boot camp, giving 100 high school students a chance to spend four days at Disney World learning from executives and leaders, hearing from celebrity guest speakers and interacting with their peers.
“Disney Dreamers, I have no doubt that each of you is ready for adventure and fun over the next few days,” said Tracey Powell, Disney Signature Experiences vice president and Disney Dreamers Academy executive. “After all you are here at Walt Disney World, the most magical place on Earth.”
Drum Major Mickey led this year’s class of Dreamers into the ceremony before taking the stage. And he wasn’t the only celebrity to make an appearance.
Singer-songwriter and actor Halle Bailey was introduced as this year’s celebrity ambassador. Bailey, who is set to appear as Ariel in Disney’s upcoming live-action remake of “The Little Mermaid,” will serve as a mentor during the event.
“I’m so excited to be welcomed into this role. What can I say?” Bailey said to the crowd. “So for the next few days, I hope you’ll discover how you are uniquely a Disney Dreamer. I hope you’ll be curious, and I hope you’ll reach beyond what is comfortable to discover and what’s exciting.”
The participating students are chosen from thousands of applicants. Since it began, Disney Dreamers Academy has hosted more than 1,500 students.
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