GSWPA

Stop Cancer: Attention to Prevention

“My Gold Award project, ‘Stop Cancer: Attention to Prevention’ proves that you are never too young to make a difference.” – Gold Award Girl Scout Madelyn Sheffel

Girl Scouts Western Pennsylvania would like to congratulate Madelyn Sheffel, Gold Award Girl Scout of Mercer County Troop 36642, who was selected as the winner of the Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) Gold Award Scholarship for our council! The GSUSA Gold Award Scholarship recognizes one outstanding Gold Award Girl Scout per council whose project demonstrates measurable and sustainable impact while addressing an issue of national and/or global significance with a $5,000 academic scholarship.

Gold Award Girl Scout Madelyn Sheffel, a graduate of Lincoln Park Performing Arts Charter School, earned her Gold Award for her project “Stop Cancer: Attention to Prevention Education Program.” As a daughter of two cancer survivors, Madelyn wanted to educate her community on cancer prevention.

“Challenged by both parents’ near-simultaneous cancer battles, my cancer journey allowed me to learn about cancer firsthand, giving me an in-depth look at cancer’s destruction,” Madelyn said. “This experience ignited my desire to be a global agent for future change. My Gold Award project has given a quiet girl a voice to make a difference.”

The American Cancer Society estimates that 50% of all cancers could be preventable. Utilizing information and contacts from the American Cancer Society and Allegheny Health Network, Madelyn developed a program focused on educating the public about lifestyle modifications that can be made today to help decrease the risk of cancer tomorrow.

She constructed a traveling pop-up education center which included information about her 12-part program and Prevention Pledge. Her education center was taken to several Relay for Life and community events to spread the word about cancer treatment and research information. Each visitor was asked to complete a survey and a pledge to implement lifestyle modifications, allowing her to measure the impact of her project.

“Throughout my Gold Award journey, I’ve been privileged to hear countless cancer narratives, each one leaving an indelible mark on my soul,” she said. “These experiences have transformed me into a more empathetic and attentive listener, allowing me to connect with others on a deeper level. They’ve helped me to hone my communication skills, enabling me to articulate complex ideas and advocate for causes close to my heart.”

Through collaborations with other organizations, Madelyn’s outreach has extended beyond Relay for Life to schools, hospitals, and additional cancer organizations.

“My Gold Award project had such a significant impact that we are fundraising to create additional program centers and literature for distribution at events and schools,” she said. “In simple terms: more centers mean more potential for impact.”

Madelyn’s project has been presented to nearly 10,000 people and her social media campaign has gone global, reaching as far as Australia and Japan. She’s had the opportunity to speak on stages across the state and was even featured on a national podcast called “Sisters in Sustainability” to speak about how Girl Scouting has prepared her for her future.

“Although it started as my Girl Scout Gold Award idea, ‘Stop Cancer: Attention to Prevention’ is now an award-winning program that has grown beyond my initial dream,” she said. “Each step has been a lesson in resilience, compassion, and the unwavering determination to make a difference in the lives of cancer patients.”

In addition to earning her Girl Scout Gold Award, Madelyn was also named Girl Scouts Western Pennsylvania’s 2023 Honorable Mention Girl Scout of Distinction, and she was crowned Miss Midstate’s Teen 2023, stating that her Gold Award became her platform for the Miss Midstate Scholarship Organization.

“I love being able to use the voice I developed in [Girl] Scouting to raise awareness for cancer across the state!” Madelyn said.

Madelyn was also recently recognized at the VFW State Convention as the Pennsylvania VFW Scout of the Year. She earned not only national recognition but a $1,000 scholarship.

Congratulations, Madelyn, on all of your remarkable achievements and for serving as a role model to Girl Scouts everywhere!

2024 Adult Award Recipients

The Adult Award Review Committee has the distinct privilege of reviewing nominations for the exceptional volunteers who serve as the backbone of our organization each year. The committee meticulously assesses each recommendation, and the board approves the nominations for the Adult Awards, including the President’s Award, Appreciation Pin, Honor Pin, and Thanks Badge. Congratulations to our 2024 Adult Award recipients!

President’s Award Recipients

The President’s Award recognizes the efforts of a service delivery team or committee whose exemplary service in support of delivering the Girl Scout Leadership Experience surpassed team goals and resulted in significant, measurable impact toward reaching the council’s overall goals.

Camp Redwing 100th Anniversary Committee (Brandi Cramer, Caitlin Jo Painter, Caitlin Moury, Celina Karnes, Jessica Kiefer, Kelly Ubinger, Kim Metheny, and Mary Schneider)

The Camp Redwing 100th Anniversary Committee successfully planned a celebration for alums, current Girl Scouts, families, and staff as part of Camp Redwing’s 100th birthday. They surpassed goals by researching the camp’s history, creating and placing informative signs across the camp, and organizing various events over the weekend. Their efforts contributed to meeting council goals of membership growth and retention, fund development, and increased community visibility by engaging multiple stakeholders and fostering the Girl Scout experience.

West Montour Camporee Leadership Team (Megan Myers, Sarah Shaffer, Erika Caley, Christine Jordan, and Caroline Lascek)

The West Montour Camporee Leadership Team is an example to follow by incorporating girl-led leadership opportunities for older girls. They interview and accept older girls into the leadership program, guiding them in planning the Camporee. This speaks to their commitment to providing a leadership progression for their girls. The team surpasses goals by teaching attendance, conflict resolution, and planning skills, contributing to membership growth and retention as girls stay in Girl Scouts to participate in the program.

Service Unit 4605-Bedford Leadership Team (Diane Kisner, Sara Kovach, Michele Alsleben, Lauren McVicker, and Brittany Dicken)

The Service Unit 4605 Bedford Leadership Team worked to maintain the service unit’s independence and to grow Girl Scout membership in Bedford County. To increase visibility and recruit new members, they organized various activities, including parades, light displays, and community events. The team has shown resilience and dedication to the Girl Scout Leadership Experience, mentoring girls and leaders and fostering a thriving service unit.

Service Unit 2647-Morning Star Leadership Team (Tabatha Mill, Laura Obyc, Kim Trost, Karen Resendes, and Jamie Marcott)

The Morning Star Service Unit camp staff impacts every Girl Scout and adult volunteer attending their summer camps. They aim to offer authentic camp experiences, girl-led activities, and skill-building opportunities, exceeding these goals by providing unique and diverse programs each year. With a focus on retention, their efforts retain older Girl Scouts through engaging mini-camp experiences and a 100% girl-led day camp. The team’s dedication to providing memorable experiences contributes to membership growth and community visibility, as evidenced by the widespread wearing of camp shirts. Their commitment to the Girl Scout Leadership Experience ensures that participants develop valuable skills and become future leaders.

Thanks Badge Recipients

The Thanks Badge honors an individual whose ongoing commitment, leadership, and service have had an exceptional, measurable impact on meeting the mission-delivery goals and priorities of the entire council or the entire Girl Scout Movement. To receive this award, volunteers reach beyond their local Girl Scout communities to serve as pillars in Girl Scouting. Their presence and impact can be felt throughout the council.

Lois Kuttesch

For more than 20 years, Lois Kuttich has served in various roles within the Girl Scouts organization, including roles on the board, board development committee, service unit, and troop. She has contributed significantly to strategic planning, financial health, and property analysis of the council. Her dedication has strengthened the council and benefited girls across all 27 counties. Lois exemplifies sisterhood by actively recruiting and training board members, ensuring proper orientation, and representing Girl Scouts Western Pennsylvania at national events. Despite not receiving previous awards, her longstanding commitment and leadership have made a significant impact on the entire Girl Scout movement.

Dot Brooks

It is our honor and privilege to nominate Dot Brookes for the Thanks Badge. Dot has contributed to the Girl Scout movement as she served in various roles such as board treasurer, board member at large, and troop leader. Her leadership as chair of the board of directors has positively impacted all 27 counties within Girl Scouts Western Pennsylvania. Dot’s exemplary service spans over 20 years, during which she led strategic planning efforts, enhanced financial stability, and provided guidance during challenging times, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, Dot demonstrated sisterhood by actively recruiting and training board members, ensuring proper orientation, and representing Girl Scouts Western Pennsylvania at national events, further strengthening the Girl Scout community. Our hearts are heavy with sadness and gratitude at the loss of such an important member of our Girl Scout family. We welcomed her family to receive her Thanks Badge.

Honor Pin Recipients

The Honor Pin recognizes an individual’s exemplary service in support of delivering the Girl Scout Leadership Experience, which has had a measurable impact on two or more geographic areas of service, allowing the council to reach and surpass its mission-delivery goals.

To receive this award, volunteers must go outside their own service unit and support others. Sometimes, this is accomplished by mentoring Gold Award candidates. Other times, it’s by offering much-needed training to volunteers.

Jennifer Bell

Jennifer Bell (Jenny) has been nominated for her exceptional dedication to providing outdoor Girl Scout experiences for all. She facilitated archery at two Top-Notch Troop events, demonstrating flexibility by adjusting her work schedule to accommodate the time of the event, providing 315 Girl Scouts from 18 service units across different geographic areas with memorable experiences. Multiple girls said, “This was the best day ever.” Holding certifications in low ropes, hatchet throwing, and slingshots, Jenny exemplifies sisterhood by sharing her skills and frequently volunteering to facilitate activities for Girl Scout troops, regardless of their location within the council.

Crystal Simpson

Crystal Simpson’s volunteer work benefits Girl Scouts from multiple troops and areas. The talents and skills she possesses as a professionally trained chef have been instrumental in organizing and executing events not only within her service unit but across the council. Crystal’s long-time support has alleviated pressure on leaders and facilitated growth in membership and retention. Her commitment to cooking, teaching, and organizing at camp sets a shining example for all Girl Scouts, embodying the principles of kindness, patience, and resourcefulness.

Calvin Simpson

Calvin Simpson, a volunteer in Service Unit 3622 Fairview, contributes significantly to the Girl Scout community through his dedication and support. Calvin actively participates in various activities, including, setting up camps, assisting with troop projects like constructing mazes, and volunteering at council-wide events like Camp Creepy and the Great Getaway. His commitment to Girl Scouting reflects the values of kindness, dedication, and patience, making him a role model for all Girl Scouts.

Gabriel Miehl

Gabriel Miehl’s volunteerism in Fairview Service Unit 3622 embodies true dedication and support for the Girl Scout movement. He actively participates in service unit camps and council-wide events, including the Great Getaway and Camp Creepy. Additionally, Gabriel’s commitment to Troop 30836, where he’s provided invaluable guidance and memorable experiences (including multiple trips), is exemplary. His leadership, kindness, and patience reflect the Girl Scout Law and Promise, making him a cherished “sister” to every Girl Scout.

Kevin Simpson

Kevin Simpson’s significant contributions span many years and multiple service units. As a dedicated volunteer and professional chef, Kevin’s support enables numerous camping opportunities at Camp Hawthorne Ridge for girls across different troops. His involvement alleviates pressure on experienced leaders, fostering membership growth and retention. Kevin’s creativity and humor, exemplified through entertaining activities like the Owl Hunt, leave a lasting impact on the girls, reinforcing the spirit of gratitude and camaraderie within the Girl Scouting community.

Linda Simpson

Linda Simpson’s significance extends to multiple service units within the council. Her extensive knowledge and dedication have enriched service unit camps, where she imparts valuable skills and fosters pride and confidence among Girl Scouts and leaders. Linda’s contributions have led to increased leader and volunteer retention, particularly during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. Through her example of kindness, resourcefulness, and mentorship, Linda embodies the Girl Scout Law and Promise, serving as a supportive sister to every Girl Scout in the broader council community.

Theresa Smith

Theresa Smith, a dedicated member of the Gold Award Committee and the North Allegheny East Service Unit, impacts leaders and girls across the council area. She mentors girls in achieving the Gold Award, fostering community-minded projects that build courage, confidence, and character. Additionally, Theresa’s involvement in the service unit, particularly at the annual Day Camp, provides girls of all ages with exciting adventures and opportunities for growth. As a true sister to every Girl Scout, Theresa consistently goes above and beyond, offering assistance, sharing her skills and knowledge, and embodying the spirit of sisterhood within the organization.

Victoria Kennedy

Victoria Kennedy, a Gold Award recipient herself, serves on the Gold Award Committee, mentoring girls throughout the council to achieve this prestigious honor. With her firsthand experience, she imparts wisdom and guidance to aspiring Gold Award recipients across the council. Victoria’s exemplary service spans the entire council, providing insight, compassion, and support to girls who have successfully earned the Gold Award. Her contributions to refining the rubric system have further enhanced the evaluation process. As a sister to every Girl Scout, Victoria shares her expertise, dedication, and youthful perspective, embodying the spirit of giving back to the organization that has shaped her life.

Appreciation Pin Recipients

The Appreciation Pin recognizes an individual’s exemplary service in support of delivering the Girl Scout Leadership Experience. This service, which has had a measurable impact on one geographic area of service, helps reach and surpass the mission-delivery goals of the area.

Michele Alsleben
Tabatha Mill
Jennifer Fox
Monica Martini
Sharon Talarico
Cammie Stralko

Congratulations to all of our 2024 Adult Award recipients!

Volunteer Spotlight: Michelle Kramer

Name: Michelle Kramer

Service Unit: SU5107-Bethel South

County: Allegheny

Total Girl Scout Years: 14

Volunteer Years: 13

Current and Former Volunteer Positions: troop leader, service unit manager, camp coordinator, and troop coach

Age-Level Experience: Cadette, Senior, Ambassador

Girl Scout Pillar Experience: STEM, Life Skills, Outdoors, Entrepreneurship

Specialties: event planning, GSUSA Destinations

Certifications: archery, First Aid/CPR/AED, PA Certified Teacher (7-12 English, Communications, Business/Information/Technology, and K-12 Library)

What do you want volunteers to know about you?
When my daughter’s Daisy troop grew into needing a third approved adult, I volunteered. From there, I took on some roles within our service unit and have been inspired and moved by the impact that Girl Scouting has in creating [Girl] Scouts of character, confidence, and courage.

What does Girl Scouting mean to you?
When my older daughter expressed an interest in Girl Scouting as a kindergartener, I took her to the recruitment meeting. Seeing the older girls representing the Girl Scout movement with such grace and poise, I hoped that my daughter would develop some of that composure and maturity. Now, twelve years later, I lead two troops in which my two daughters have developed skills and areas of interest, experienced adventure, and built meaningful friendships. And, each fall at the recruitment meeting, at our service unit’s day camp, and at our Camporee events, it’s now my daughters who are leading and guiding the little [Girl] Scouts on the same path.

What is your Girl Scout leadership philosophy?
Everybody is welcome. Bring what you can. Take what you need.

I frequently say “Girl Scouting runs on volunteers.” So, finding and protecting those volunteers who are willing to offer their skills to forward the Girl Scout movement is my primary philosophy.

What advice do you have for new troop leaders?
Get a team. The whole idea of “many hands making light work” is true in two ways. With more people to pitch in, there is less for each person to do. But also, for me, the work is more joyful and fun when you’re in it with others.

So, get a team. As you’re building your troop, encourage parents to register and submit their clearances so that they can run a meeting, drive to events, come camping (remember men can be Girl Scouts, too!), offer a fun patch activity during a regular meeting, or present a step in a badge or maybe a whole badge in a Journey.

If you see yourself as the supporter of the adults of the team and focus on communicating clearly the goals and schedule, you’ll win friends for life.

Volunteer Spotlight: Darlene Brown

Name: Darlene Brown

Service Unit: SU4641-Indiana

County: Indiana

Total Girl Scout Years: 27

Volunteer Years: 20

Current and Former Volunteer Positions: troop leader, service unit team, program team, co-service unit manager, co-day camp director, outdoor training facilitator, Program Aide training facilitator, archery instructor, troop cookie manager, assist with service unit cookie manager, recruitment, camp activities team member, day camp volunteer

Age-Level Experience: Daisy, Brownie, Junior, Cadette, Senior, Ambassador, Younger Multi-Level, Older Multi-Level, All-Ages Multi-Level, Indie Girl Scouting

Girl Scout Pillar Experience: Life Skills, Outdoors

Specialties: camping, cookie program, additional money earning/fundraising, outdoor skills, flag ceremonies, community service/Take Action projects, badges, event planning, ceremonies/traditions, archery, First Aid/CPR/AED, hiking, knife skills, knot tying, Leave No Trace, crafts

Awards: Volunteer of Excellence, Appreciation Pin, Honor Pin

Certifications: Outdoor Training Facilitator, Program Aide Training Facilitator, Archery Facilitator, First Aid/CPR/AED, Mental Health First Aid, Cooking for Crowds

What do you want volunteers to know about you?
I started in Girl Scouts when I was in the second grade and went on until I was in the eighth grade. As a girl, I attended day camp one year at Camp Cherry Hill in Indiana County. I went camping with my troop at different times over those years, attended various events, sold MagNut and cookies, and enjoyed it. As an adult, when my daughter went to kindergarten in September 2005, we talked about joining Girl Scouts. I told her I would help out the leader. Well, little did I know, I ended up being the leader. I have continued on with my daughter over the years until she graduated high school in 2018. She has earned her Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards as well. We have gone on many camping trips and attended lots of events. I took all the training I could possibly take over the years. We started attending the Blue Spruce Day Camp here in Indiana County in 2006. I have volunteered every year since and now I’m a co-director for our day camp. We have many memories of things that have happened over the years. We have done a little traveling over the years. We did go on the 100th-anniversary bus trip to Washington D.C. when they had them sing. As a leader, I offered opportunities to my girls for events we had locally whether they all could attend or not. We worked on so many patches and badges over the years. If we went somewhere, if I could find a patch for that activity, I got the patches for the girls. As the girls grew, I grew too. There have been many times they kept me on my toes and there were times I had to try to be a step ahead of them.

What does Girl Scouting mean to you?
Girl Scouting means a lot to me. As a girl, I have learned different things and have gone to different places with my troop and friends. The memories of the camping trips, the one year I went to Camp Cherry Hill for a week of day camp, and I got to attend the Indiana Mall show for the 75th anniversary of Girl Scouting. As an adult, I got to celebrate the 100th and the 110th anniversaries of Girl Scouting. There are lots of values within Girl Scouting and the different skills the girls can learn. The friendships I have made over the years, and the experiences, are things I will carry with me for years to come. Learning some of this as a girl and into an adult volunteer, I can now share it with my daughter, her friends, and other girls who join.

What is your Girl Scout leadership philosophy?
Make it fun. The more fun the girls have at troop meetings, trips, and events, the more they want to come back. Sometimes you may have everything planned out for the whole event or meeting—be ready to make changes or go with the flow. The girls are all different. As a leader, be ready to step outside of the box and learn some new skills to help keep all the girls interested in Girl Scouts. Sometimes, as a leader, you do have to get a little crazy. Wear a crazy outfit and bring a stuffed animal to camp to sleep with and things like that—if it helps a girl break out of her shell, so be it. Don’t be upset if things don’t go as planned. I have had many times when I had to adjust and roll with the punches.

What advice do you have for new troop leaders?
Relax, have fun, and learn with the girls. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. No leader is perfect—we all have made mistakes over the years. The important thing is to be there for the girls at the meetings, trips, and events. If the girls are interested in something you are not comfortable with, like if you are not an outdoors type of person and they want to go camping, it is ok to ask for help from other leaders and troops. You can always work with another troop either in your service unit or outside of your service unit to go on that camping trip or field trip. I have been asked over the years with my different pieces of training if I could help chaperone different trips if someone was not trained for overnight trips, camping trips, and things like that. Now, since my daughter is in graduate school, I no longer have a girl in Girl Scouting. I have stayed on because I have made so many friends over the years. I enjoy helping out.

Other Organizations: I am a member of Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts. I also plan youth group activities and Sunday School activities for my church (it’s a small church). I have been on the church council for the past five years. I have been involved in PTA as my three kids went through elementary school.

Anything else?
My daughter earned her Gold Award in 2018. She has earned her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education with special ed from IUP, started working as a substitute, and now started graduate school to get her master’s degree. My oldest son (middle child) earned his Eagle Award in 2020 (during COVID-19). He is currently attending Penn State Altoona for an engineering degree. He has a year or year and a half to finish his bachelor’s degree. My youngest son will be ready to start the process for his Eagle Award soon. He is 16 and working on finishing the last couple of merit badges he needs to take the next step. He has three more years left in high school. I am currently working full-time and taking college classes part-time.

Congratulations to our 2024 Gold Award Girl Scouts

Congratulations to our 2024 Gold Award Girl Scouts! Our council recently celebrated 41 Girl Scouts who earned the Gold Award, the most prestigious award in Girl Scouting.

Gold Award Girl Scouts Autumn Blair, Emma Perman, and Sawyer Wright spoke at our 2024 Gold Award Ceremony about their projects and their Girl Scouting experiences.

Autumn Blair

Autumn Blair earned her Girl Scout Gold Award for her project, “Autumn’s Free Little Library.”

Noticing a lack of library resources in her school district, Autumn wanted to encourage kids to read more. She provided them a space to exchange books by building a free little library for Sharpsville High School, Middle School, and Elementary School to share. Autumn also hosted story times at the elementary school and gave presentations about literacy.

Emma Perman

Emma Perman earned her Girl Scout Gold Award for her project, “Kindness and American Sign Language.”

Emma presented to over 200 children and adults about the importance of being kind and communicating with others through American Sign Language. She taught the basics of sign language and posted her discussions on social media to reach a wider audience.

Sawyer Wright

Sawyer Wright earned her Girl Scout Gold Award for her project, “Empowering Young Girls Through Fiction.”

Sawyer’s project focused on increasing elementary school girls’ confidence in themselves by providing positive role models for how to handle difficult but common situations. To accomplish this, she wrote, illustrated, and published the book The Four Take on Fifth, a story about four friends in fifth grade who overcome challenges with the help of friends and family. She led a team of volunteer artists to illustrate the novel. Diversity and relatability were among her top priorities in both the writing and illustrations. Copies of her book were donated to local and school libraries, Girl Scout troops, and nonprofit organizations.

Thank you to Autumn, Emma, and Sawyer for speaking at our Gold Award Ceremony, and congratulations again to all of our outstanding Gold Award Girl Scouts!

Volunteer Spotlight: Ellie Babcock

Name: Ellie Babcock

Service Unit: SU2662-St. Marys

County: Elk

Total Girl Scout Years: 18

Volunteer Years: 8

Current and Former Volunteer Positions: troop leader, Magnut manager, and service unit manager

Age-Level Experience: Brownie, Junior, Cadette, Senior

Girl Scout Pillars: Life Skills, Outdoors

Specialties: camping, travel, MagNut program, Girl Scout finances, outdoor skills, badges

Adult Awards: Volunteer of Excellence, Honor Pin

What do you want volunteers to know about you?
I am a Gold Award Girl Scout and I love that my daughter will be working on her Gold Award this year and as her leader, I was a part of her adventure.

What does Girl Scouting mean to you?
Girls getting out there to do great adventures together.

What is your Girl Scout leadership philosophy?
Let’s do it!

What advice do you have for new troop leaders?
Just dive right in!

2024 Gold Award Girl Scouts Receive Honors at Awards of Distinction

Our annual Awards of Distinction event, held this year on May 15, 2024, at the Carnegie Science Center, celebrates women who exemplify excellence in leadership throughout our council’s region, as well as the accomplishments of two Gold Award Girl Scouts who received the honors of Girl Scout Humanitarian and Girl Scout of Distinction.

Gold Award Girl Scout Eliza Davis, a senior at Fox Chapel Area High School, accepted the award for the 2024 Girl Scout Humanitarian for her project: Harm Reduction, Opioid Overdose Response, and Naloxone Education.

With a strong sense of justice and a critical eye, Eliza Davis has always been concerned for communities and issues that many find easier to ignore. After noticing that any information widely available regarding drug use and addiction was largely limited to the endorsement of complete abstinence and sobriety, she realized that an entire portion of the population was being neglected—those who already use drugs. But it doesn’t have to be this way—seemingly small individual and community efforts can have enormous impacts and save countless lives.

Eliza confronted this complex public health problem through her Girl Scout Gold Award project, educating her peers on harm reduction and opioid overdose response. Her audience gained practical skills like naloxone administration to respond to opioid overdoses while she attempted to shift their perspectives on drug use and substance use disorders to an empathetic, evidence-based, harm-reduction approach.

“From organizing camping trips to hosting an author’s workshop for young writers and illustrators, Girl Scouts has empowered me not just to explore the world around me but also to change it.” —Eliza Davis

Gold Award Girl Scout Sawyer Wright, a graduate of North Allegheny Senior High School, accepted the award for the 2024 Girl Scout of Distinction for her project: Empowering Young Girls through Fiction.

Sawyer wrote, illustrated, and published the book The Four Take on Fifth to increase confidence in upper-elementary school girls. Upper elementary school can be a turbulent time for many girls, so it is essential they learn from positive messages that accurately represent their ages and struggles. Growing up, Sawyer often viewed book characters as inspirations and role models. She created her Gold Award project to provide a model for how to deal with challenging situations while maintaining healthy friendships and growing self-confidence.

In addition to her love for reading and writing, Sawyer also believes in the power of art. She led a small team of illustrators to bring the novel’s story to life. Sawyer hosted an author’s workshop at her former elementary school to share the message of her book and inspire future writers and artists. Copies of the book were donated to
several elementary schools, public libraries, and Girl Scout troops.

“From organizing camping trips to hosting an author’s workshop for young writers and illustrators, Girls Scouts has taught me to be a leader among my peers and in my community. For the past 13 years, my Girl Scout experiences have honed my skills in communication, project management, public speaking, and creative problem-solving.” —Sawyer Wright

We were honored to celebrate these outstanding Gold Award Girl Scouts along with our 2024 Women of Distinction honorees. Congratulations on your achievements, Eliza and Sawyer!

For more information about this year’s event and honorees, please visit gswpa.org/aod.

Adventure awaits at Girl Scout Summer Camp!

Girl Scout summer camp season is right around the corner! From devouring s’mores to singing songs around the campfire, we invite Girl Scouts to experience the magic of camp as they unplug, unwind, and immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

Whether attending on their own or with others, Girl Scout camp gives girls the opportunity to step outside of their comfort zone as they learn new skills, build friendships, and create memories that will last them a lifetime.

We asked some of our Girl Scouts and troops what they love about Girl Scout camp and what they’re looking forward to most this summer!

Daisy Girl Scout Emma is registered for family camp at Camp Skymeadow this summer and has recently attended the Woman Warriors event at Camp Conshatawba. Her mother, Angie, says they plan on attending their service unit camp at Camp Redwing too.

Emma and a few of her fellow Girl Scouts from Greater Pittsburgh Troop 46685 went to Camp Skymeadow for the Daring Daisies day camp last year. Emma enjoyed trying horseback riding, canoeing, and archery for the first time! She was proud that she made her arrow stick to the target during archery. She said, “I did it all by myself!” She also made a snake for arts and crafts and enjoyed being at camp with her friends and making new ones.

This year, Emma is looking forward to sleeping over at camp with her mom and her friends. She enjoyed sleeping in the bunk beds while at camp last summer—she thought it was the coolest thing! Emma says she loves being a Girl Scout because she gets to be with her friends, make projects (such as a piggy bank out of recycled items), earn badges and fun patches, and sell Girl Scout Cookies at cookie booths.

Girl Scouts of Allegheny County Troop 52841 went to Camp Redwing last year where they participated in Camp Redwing 100th Anniversary activities and even closed with a bridging ceremony. The girls enjoyed hiking, creek time, cooking on a fire, having a few dance parties, learning how to use a crockpot, and earning their first Junior Outdoor Journey.

Brownie Girl Scout Rylee of Westmoreland County Troop 21934

“I loved at Girl Scout camp when we woke up early and took a nature hike. My entire troop was at Camp Skymeadow. I also loved doing archery at camp. It made me feel happy to be in nature with my friends.” – Brownie Girl Scout Rylee S. of Westmoreland Troop 21934

Cadette Troop 50887 of Allegheny County went to Camp Skymeadow last year.

“All nine girls were able to make it, and it is the first time they have gone to camp without my co-leader and me,” said Troop Leader Shannon Burgoyne. “All nervous but SUPER excited!”

Mercer County Troop 27314 at Camp Redwing

Mercer County Troop 27314 is attending troop camp this June at Camp Skymeadow. Many of the girls opted to attend individual camp sessions this year and for many, it is their second or third year going to overnight camp. The girls are most excited about swimming, archery, building fires, making s’mores over them, and exploring in the woods.

From previous camp trips, these Girl Scouts have loved hiking the gorge at Camp Hawthorne Ridge, letterboxing at Camp Redwing (done during the Camp Redwing 100th Celebration), riding the horses at Camp Skymeadow, disappearing into the bathroom to apply glitter tattoos at Camp Conshatawba, and snowshoeing during winter camp at Camp Hawthorne Ridge.

The girls use any free time to jump into the Gaga Ball pit for a few rounds. They even made a bridge out of sticks, small broken branches, mud, and moss—and it held!

Troop Leader Carla Thrasher said, “As the adults, Misty [Parshall] and I are always excited to see the girls experience new things. We were very excited for the opportunity to attend the Solar Eclipse camp where our girls were able to experience something that we can only hope to experience again.”

Girl Scouts Audrianna and Tori say they liked biking around the peninsula during the It’s OK to Love Erie camp week at Camp Hawthorne Ridge, Ryleigh enjoyed her stay in the yurts during the Camp Redwing 100th Celebration, and Jordan says that her favorite part of staying at Camp Redwing was finding the letterboxes.

According to girls who attended Girl Scouts Western Pennsylvania camps in 2023, they agreed or strongly agreed about the following experiences at camp:

93% of girls felt they had the power to make decisions for themselves.

80% of girls felt they learned more about the world around them.

80% of girls felt they made new friends.

75% of girls felt they were courageous.

Check out our website to learn more about Girl Scout summer camp!

We can’t wait to see you there!

Volunteer Spotlight: Melinda Shoenfelt

Service Unit: SU4641-Indiana

County: Indiana

Total Girl Scout Years: 30

Volunteer Years: 22

Current and Former Volunteer Positions: service unit manager, service unit cookie manager, troop cookie manager, troop MagNut manager, finance manager, cookie cupboard manager, day camp staff, program team, service unit registrar, troop mentor, trainer, troop leader, Adult Award Committee

What do you want volunteers to know about you?
I have led all age levels and worked on most activities in the service unit and county programs.

What does Girl Scouting mean to you?
Girl Scouting is where girls learn to do anything they want, and I am grateful to help teach them and give them new adventures.

What is your Girl Scout leadership philosophy?
If you don’t try, you won’t know how much you love it.

What advice do you have for new troop leaders?
Ask questions when you have them. All of us have started where you are and many have been around for many years. We can always help.

Other Organizations: Moose Family Center

Awards of Distinction Honorary Chair, Victoria Bechtold Kush

We sat down with Victoria Bechtold Kush to learn about what Girl Scouts means to her. Victoria is a shareholder at Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC, a Girl Scouts Western Pennsylvania board member, a former Woman of Distinction, a lifetime member of Girl Scouts, and this year’s Awards of Distinction Honorary Chair.

Can you speak about how your time spent with Girl Scouts helped shape you as a person and what do you most hope for Girl Scouts today to gain from their experiences?

My youth Girl Scout involvement was filled with exploration, fun memories, and uncommon experiences that caused me to grow as a person. As a young girl, I was quite apprehensive and nervous in new or unfamiliar activities. But, as a Brownie, I spent several years of summer camp at Camp Conshatawba. There, I gained confidence by earning my “red cap” (back when color-coded swim caps were issued to identify each camper’s swim level), giving me coveted access to swim in the pool’s deep end. I acquired grit (plus some grime) sleuthing for salamanders and crayfish in the stream. I grew in character learning how to properly retire and handle the American flag at the end of the day. I bonded with the other girls and enjoyed the friendships and sisterhood of the experience.

I hope that Girl Scouts today will experience the fun of one of our council’s camps, and dig into our wide variety of programs. Doing so, they will expand their horizons and develop their confidence, grit, and character as they grow!

As a lifetime member of Girl Scouts, former Woman of Distinction, Honorary Committee member, and current board member, how would you say being a Girl Scout has influenced your career and/or academic path?

Girl Scouts’ mission is to build girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place. This mission is uniquely tied to the high professional standards and duties essential to the legal profession. As a lawyer and civil litigation attorney, I’m routinely faced with complex legalities and challenges that require ethical conduct, critical decisions, and sound judgment. My foundation in Girl Scouts set me up for success with these challenges and prepared me for the rigor of the legal profession.

What was the most significant barrier you faced while advancing in your career and what guidance can you provide to young women aspiring to be in a professional leadership position in the future?

Women remain underrepresented in the legal profession, particularly among law firm partners. Even though women are now outnumbering men in law schools, they comprise merely 25% of law firm partners. In order to rise through the ranks of promotion to become a shareholder of a large, national, law firm, I worked tirelessly to achieve the best results possible in every case I handled, while staying true to my values. I sought out mentors and engaged with successful women lawyers at Buchanan as well as other lawyers who championed women to provide guidance and insight.

I encourage young women aspiring to be in a professional leadership position to seek guidance and advice from other successful women leaders—just like those at our upcoming Women of Distinction event!

As the mother of a Girl Scout, what would you like to share about Girl Scouts with other families whose daughter(s) are looking to get involved in various activities?

My daughter, Alexandra, is a Junior Girl Scout. She’s the third generation of Girl Scouts in our family. My mother always taught me the importance of being well-rounded and having exposure to a multitude of things, including things that may not initially seem appealing. With societal pressure for youth to “specialize” earlier than ever, Girl Scouts is the perfect activity to explore new pathways and interests. My daughter’s recent troop meetings have involved lessons in origami, geology, veterinary care, emergency preparedness, community service, good citizenship, and so much more! These topics have expanded her horizons and sparked new interests beyond her school curriculum and extracurricular activities.

As the 2024 Awards of Distinction Honorary Chair, what do you hope those who attend take away from this signature event?

When women support each other, incredible things happen! Let’s celebrate the successful, high-achieving women in our midst so that together, we can help girls believe in themselves and in their dreams to become the women leaders of tomorrow.