Disney’s Wide World of Sports venue

Disney Institute speaker retirement party
Two Disney Execs on the right: front right, Jeff James (at the time VP, Disney Institute), and Lee Cockerell directly above Jeff James’ head. Lee is our former EVP, WDW Operations.

Disney’s Wide World of Sports venue was my boss Wayne Gagne’s pick for retirement party venue.

Without hesitation, i suggested Disney’s Contemporary Resort’s top floor, The Napa Room.

The Napa Room overlooks (West to East):

  1. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa
  2. Disney’s Magic Kingdom Theme Park
  3. Disney University (DU)
  4. Disney’s River Country Water Park
  5. And obviously, it’s in Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Watch how the corresponding numbers add up Disney Career years:

  1. Spent two tours of duty, six years total at “The Grand”
  2. First role on College Program, Jungle Jeff, in Magic Kingdom’s Adventureland, 1982
  3. First three days of career spent at DU. And, Traditions Facilitator 1988
  4. First role upon returning as Permanent Cast Member, River Country Lifeguard
  5. First role in Resort Hotel Operations at Contemporary – ultimately a 15-year career in resorts before Disney Institute called

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This website is about our BODY. To read today’s post about our SPIRIT, click here.

By jeff noel

Retired Disney Institute Keynote Speaker and Prolific Blogger. Five daily, differently-themed personal blogs (about life's 5 big choices) on five interconnected sites.