May 2017
Expanding STEAM capacities
Research shows that engaging girls in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) builds their confidence and interest in those fields. That's why STEAM is one of our four program areas, and why we endeavor to inspire girls to pursue opportunities they might not have otherwise considered. We recently teamed up with Southwest Airlines and MANA de San Diego to host Operation Wing Scout (photos), where girls explored careers in aviation. Held aboard the USS Midway Museum, the workshop was named for a Girl Scout program that started in 1941 to teach girls about flying and serving their country. During our modern version, participants learned about the science behind flight, conducted aerial maneuvers at the Southwest Airlines Flight Simulation Lab (above), toured the Midway and interacted with women professionals (a commercial pilot, a naval engineer and a Navy aircraft maintenance specialist). The aviation experiences continue: Local Girl Scouts in grades 6-9 can win a career-focused tour of Southwest Airlines headquarters in Texas through an essay competition. Thank you to everyone who makes our STEAM enrichment programs possible, because if a girl can see it, she can be it. Together, we're empowering girls to soar! Sincerely,
Gold Award spotlight: Nikki Arm "I thought this would be a great way to spark girls' interest in STEAM," says Nikki, who is among honorees attending our Gold and Silver Award ceremonies on Saturday, June 17. She has partnered with her high school FIRST robotics team (of which she is the head machinist), the American Association of University Women and others to disseminate the materials, and has received support from industry leaders including Qualcomm Senior Vice President of Engineering Susie Armstrong and FIRST founder Dean Kamen. Nikki's initial two books — Riley Loves Robotics and Sarah Loves Science — have been read by elementary students in California, Oregon and New York. Nikki and her colleagues plan to advocate for the books' adoption into the curriculum of local school districts. Nikki also published them on iTunes. Next up on the future mechanical engineer's bucket list? To become the first woman to reach the Marianas Trench, the deepest part of the ocean.
Girl Scout Jaddin Thomas (far left), a State of the Girl participant, is pictured during a recent mentoring session with (clockwise) Cool Woman of 2017 Carol Rowell Council, Olivia Warren and Maya Kota. Adults invited to State of the Girl conference
Girl Scout historic exhibit at Central Library: Check it out!
Send a girl to camp Please help us ensure all girls in grades K-12 can experience the wonders of outdoor adventures. "Campership" requests for financial aid are coming in daily from girls like Jasmine, Monica, Ellie and Anna (read more). You can give girls a summer to remember by donating today or contacting Director of Development Laura Rice at (619) 610-0735.
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