Girl Scouts of Nassau County Gold Award Booklet 2020

T H E M A R K O F T H E T R U LY R E M A R K A B L E

CLASS OF 2020

Advertisement courtesy of Girl Scouts of Nation’s Capital

From our President and Chief Volunteer Officer Chief Executive Officer:

&

CONGRATULATIONS

to our Gold Award class of 2020. You are truly the mark of the remarkable. Each of you addressed an issue that you are passionate about and made meaningful and lasting changes in your community. Now more than ever the commitment of our Gold Award Girl Scouts is critical. In 2020 we have seen unusual times with a global health crisis that required the world to shelter in place and change how we engage with each other. At the same time, young people worldwide have shown immeasurable commitment to change by sharing their voices for justice, equality and inclusion. The Gold Award is the pinnacle of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience and it is inspiring to see your generation lead the way to making a difference.

Andrea Elder-Howell, Esq.

This year was the year of “pivoting”. Not only did we have Girl Scouting at Home and Blue Bay on YOUR Block but there were virtual proms and graduations. Families celebrated birthdays, weddings, and newborn babies on video conferencing. Most of you finished up your semester from your laptop.

What the future holds feels unclear for most. However, for you, the through line of the last couple of months, for most of your childhood and for generations is Girl Scouts.

The Girl Scout movement is over 100 years old. Juliette Gordon Low was ahead of her time when she envisioned this life changing experience for girls. Our founder saw a movement that included all girls, a movement that believed girls could do anything and a movement that saw girls as change agents of the world. Today as a Gold Award Girl Scout you live up to those ideals and set the ground work for the next 100 years.

Randell M. Bynum, LMSW

As you continue your Girl Scout journey we hope that you will not only stay committed to Girl Scouts of Nassau County but continue to advocate for change wherever you are. Now is the time to extend your reach and expand your efforts. We challenge you to continue to help Girl Scouts grow. In order for our legacy to continue, we ask that you commit to the following: l TELL YOUR STORY– Tell everyone about your Gold Award experience. l ENGAGE– Inspire younger Girl Scouts by sharing what you know and learned. l GIVE BACK– Continue to make a lasting impact in your community. l RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP– Membership makes us stronger. l BELIEVE– Continue to believe in the power of Girl Scouts.

The Gold Award is a testament to the extraordinary dedication of Girl Scouts who earn it. As Gold Award Girl Scouts, you have shown remarkable dedication to improving your communities and the world. We thank you for your hard work and look forward to seeing what you will do next to make the world a better place. The future is yours.

Yours in Girl Scouting,

Andrea Elder-Howell, Esq. President and Chief Volunteer Officer

Randell M. Bynum, LMSW Chief Executive Officer

3

GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS 2020

THE MARK OF THE TRULY REMARKABLE

Mission Statement Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place.

Misión Girl Scouts ayuda a las niñas a desarrollar la confianza en sí mismas, el valor y los principios para hacer del mundo un mejor lugar.

The Girl Scout Promise

La Promesa de las Girl Scouts

On my honor, I will try: To serve God and my country, To help people at all times, And to live by the Girl Scout Law.

Por mi honor, yo trataré: De servir a Dios y a mi patria, ayudar a las personas en todo momento, y vivir conforme a la Ley de Girl Scouts.

The Girl Scout Law

La Ley de las Girl Scouts

I will do my best to be honest and fair, friendly and helpful, considerate and caring, courageous and strong, and responsible for what I say and do, and to respect myself and others, respect authority, use resources wisely, make the world a better place, and be a sister to every Girl Scout.

Yo me esforzaré por: ser honrada y justa cordial y servicial, considerada y compasiva, valiente y fuerte, y responsable de lo que digo y hago, y por respetarme a mí misma y a los demás respetar la autoridad usar los recursos de manera prudente, hacer del mundo un lugar mejor, y ser hermana de cada una de las Girl Scouts.

Commitment to Pluralism

Dedicación al pluralismo

Girl Scouts of Nassau County is committed to achieve pluralism through respect for and appreciation of the religious, racial, ethnic, social, and economic diversity of this county by reflecting that diversity in its membership, leadership, and programming.

Girl Scouts of Nassau County está dedicada a alcanzar el pluralismo actuando con respeto y aprecio hacia la diversidad religiosa, racial, étnica, social y económica de este condado reflejando la diversidad en su membresía, liderazgo y programación.

This commitment is an integral part of all that we do as an organization.

Esta dedicación es esencial en todo lo que hacemos como una organización.

Girl Scouts of Nassau County is an equal opportunity, affirmative action agency.

Girl Scouts of Nassau County es una agencia de discriminación de igualdad de oportunidades y de acción afirmativa.

Key Note Speaker MELANIE PAVLIDIS Melanie Pavlidis is a GSNC adult volunteer & Lifetime Member from the Herricks Service Unit. She was the Mistress of Ceremony for three previous Gold Award ceremonies and served as head teller at our Annual Meeting for five years. Melanie earned her Gold Award in 2011 for her project, “The Green Growers” in which she created a garden at her high school. She was also a member of the GSNC Chorus for ten years and a Media Girl for eight years. Melanie now works on corporate partnerships at the GSUSA national headquarters in Manhattan.

GSNC Gold Award Keynote 2020 This year’s class of Gold Award Girl Scouts is strong, brilliant, and remarkable. They have not only faced the pressures of school, extracurriculars, and determining their futures, but also the stress of an international health crisis and deep social unrest in our country. And yet, they devoted 80 hours of their time and energy to make the world a better place. We should all be deeply proud of them and inspired by them. They are the passionate visionary leaders who will change not just their communities, but industry and society at large.

To these current and future leaders I offer three pieces of advice.

First, explore what’s out there. What you think you know about career opportunities is just a tiny sliver of what’s out there.

And never doubt that you can create your own job, or start your own company. Find what you’re passionate about, and make a plan to get there. Apply for internships, visit different places of work and ask people what it’s like to work there.

Second, feel the power of your network. When you think about your career opportunities, consider that you have an infinite network of people to support you. Never be shy about reaching out to someone, even just to better understand what they do. By and large, you will find people are overwhelmingly willing to help you get where you want to go. After all, there is no better employee than a Gold Award Girl Scout.

Third, never forget that you are special. I’m sure you’ve been in situations where you don’t feel like you are the smartest person in the room, but never doubt that you are. There are as many types of intelligence as there are species of flowers.

As you bloom into your own unique brilliance, share it with people. The greatest thing you can do to continue the work of our founder, Julliette and all the incredible women of history, is to raise your voice, share your ideas, and help other women do the same.

You are part of a movement of bold women who are changing the world. Be kind to yourself, value your accomplishments, and dream.

Congratulations and thank you!

5

GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS 2020

THE MARK OF THE TRULY REMARKABLE

GOLD AWARD COMMITTEE 2019-20

Stephanie Bartoldus Rockville Centre

Janet Gordon Hempstead

Basia Damsker The Plains

Cheryl Hatala Glen Cove

Bonnie Parente WARM

Joan Carter The Plains

Suzie Jockel Hardscrabble

Monica Pavlidis Herricks

Cynthia Gamble Uniondale

Lisa D’Anna Johnson Merrick

Angela Sikes Port Washington

Dienamarie Giaquinto Merrick

Anna Lenz ELLM

Gina Solomita Port Washington

Joanne Meyer-Jendras Garden City

Colleen Stark Bellmore

6

GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS 2020

Kaitlyn Gioia West Hempstead/ Franklin Square

THE MARK OF THE TRULY REMARKABLE

Kathleen Murphy Massapequa

Erin Sullivan Bellmore

THE GIRL SCOUT GOLD AWARD The Highest Award a Girl Can Achieve in Girl Scouting Since 1916, Girl Scouts have been making meaningful, sustainable changes in their communities and around the world. The Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest honor a Girl Scout can earn, acknowledges the power behind each recipient’s dedication to not only empowering and bettering herself, but also to making the world a better place for others. These young women are courageous leaders and visionary change makers. They are our future, and it looks bright!

First known as the Golden Eagle of Merit, the highest award has gone through many name changes through the years...

Golden Eagle of Merit 1916-18

Golden Eaglet 1918-1938

Curved Bar 1940-63

First Class Award and Challenge Pins 1963-80

First Class 1938-40

Gold Award 1980-present

Girl Scouts of Nassau County, Inc. Board of Directors 2020-2021

OFFICERS Andrea Elder-Howell, Esq. President and Chief Volunteer Officer Anthony J. Edelman Executive Vice President Roxanne Garcia France Vice President Christopher J. Pendergast Vice President Valerie Terzano Vice President Erica Rice Treasurer Christine Bonczyk Secretary Randell M. Bynum Chief Executive Officer

MEMBERS-AT-LARGE Dr. Nada Anid Maritza Arroyo Eileen Baker Jessica Bellucci Natalie Borneo Tonia Bottoms, Esq. Lisa Burke Austin Cannon, Jr. Vikki Ernst Chang Michele Cusack Lisa Gardner, Esq. Julie Strachan-Haiber, Esq. Elizabeth Hill Shantey Hill-Hanna Steven Lindo Susan MacDonald Cathy O’Reilly Seema Rahman Dr. George Santiago, Jr. Madison Spanodemos Lauren Summa Chloe Van Dorn Irene Villacci, Esq. Leah Watson Allison Bishop White

Girl Scouts of Nassau County, Inc. SERVICE UNITS

Communities Served

BALDWIN............................. Baldwin, Baldwin Harbor BAY........................................ Bayville, Brookville, Center Island, Cove Neck, East Norwich, ....................................................Lattingtown, Laurel Hollow, Locust Valley, Matinecock, Mill Neck, ............................................... Old Brookville, Oyster Bay, Oyster Bay Cove, Upper Brookville BELLMORE.......................... Bellmore, North Bellmore CARLE PLACE/ WESTBURY......................... Carle Place, New Cassel, Westbury Village, Old Westbury CENTRAL PARK.................. Bethpage, Old Bethpage, Plainview EAST MEADOW.................. East Meadow, Salisbury ELLM..................................... East Rockaway, Lakeview, Lynbrook, Malverne ELMONT............................... Elmont, South Floral Park, Stewart Manor FLORAL PARK/ BELLEROSE......................... Bellerose Terrace, Bellerose, Bellerose Village, Floral Park FREEPORT........................... Freeport GARDEN CITY..................... Garden City GLEN COVE......................... Glen Cove GREAT NECK....................... Great Neck Village, Kensington, Kings Point, Lake Success, ............................................... Plaza, Russell Gardens, Russell Gardens Estates, Saddle Rock, Thomaston Village, University Gardens HARDSCRABBLE................ Farmingdale, North Massapequa, South Farmingdale HEMPSTEAD....................... Hempstead HERRICKS............................ Albertson, Herricks, North New Hyde Park, Searingtown, HICKSVILLE......................... Hicksville ISLAND BEACH.................. Atlantic Beach, Barnum Island, Island Beach, Lido Beach, ............................................... Long Beach, Point Lookout JERICHO/SYOSSET........... Jericho, Muttontown, Syosset, Woodbury MANHASSET...................... Manhasset, Manhasset Hills, Munsey Park, North Hills, Plandome MASSAPEQUA.................... Massapequa, Massapequa Park MERRICK.............................. Merrick, North Merrick OCEANSIDE......................... Oceanside PARK..................................... Garden City Park, New Hyde Park PLAINEDGE......................... North Massapequa, Farmingdale, Plainedge PORT WASHINGTON........ Baxter Estates, Flower Hill, Manorhaven, ............................................... Port Washington, Sands Point ROCKVILLE CENTRE......... Rockville Centre, South Hempstead ROOSEVELT........................ Roosevelt SEAFORD/WANTAGH....... Seaford, Wantagh SHORE.................................. Glen Head, Glenwood Landing, Sea Cliff THE PLAINS......................... Island Trees, Levittown UNIONDALE........................ Uniondale VALLEY STREAM/ FIVE TOWNS....................... Cedarhurst, Hewlett, Inwood, Lawrence, Woodmere, ............................................... North Woodmere, Valley Stream WARM................................... Williston Park, Albertson, East Hills Estates, East Williston, ............................................... Old Westbury, Roslyn, Roslyn Estates, Roslyn Harbor, Roslyn Heights, Mineola WEST HEMPSTEAD/ FRANKLIN SQUARE ......... Franklin Square, West Hempstead

2020 GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS BALDWIN

GARDEN CITY

MERRICK

Marcia Noel Ashley Streithorst Ashley Zingale

Nicole Aresta Erin Boyle

Grace Cutler Nicole Fauci Amritha Jacob Alexis Kotanidis Caitlin Rinaldi

Manduria Belotte Colleen Buccellato Corina Flores Alyssa Giambrone Cara Griffin Ella Labate Mary Menger Regina Reisig Katerina Van Noy Olivia Zino

CENTRAL PARK

GLEN COVE

Jaime Levy Olivia Riegler Amanda Rogers

Emily Rodgers

ROCKVILLE CENTRE

GREAT NECK

Catrina Casella Madison Spanodemos

BELLMORE

OCEANSIDE Elana Pocress

PORT WASHINGTON Eloise Griffin Lily Labella Angelina Livigni Alexa Petrunoff

Sophia Gresalfi

ELLM Emma Anderson Gia Cerulli Bernadette Kilkelly Abigail Loiselle Amber Wilkins

FLORAL PARK/ BELLEROSE Kathryn Cotsalas Anna Craig Juliana Kenna

HEMPSTEAD Daraeno Ekong

HERRICKS Kate Anne Baranello Amanda Fishkin Isabella Schneiderman

MANHASSET Lauren Carillo Lauren Hayes Jillian Holweger Mia Perulli Nora Vasek

MASSAPEQUA Kara Clark Veronica Pioreck Kathryn Weglarz

SEAFORD/WANTAGH Allison Davis Mary McKenna Rachel Nayar Britney Sirota

SHORE Sophie Goodman Sophia Kraupner Olivia Nester Christina Wile

WARM Hema Kumar

WEST HEMPSTEAD/ FRANKLIN SQUARE Victoria Bruchhauser

9

GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS 2020

THE MARK OF THE TRULY REMARKABLE

Emma Anderson

Kate Anne Baranello

ELLM SERVICE UNIT TROOP 2000

HERRICKS SERVICE UNIT TROOP 1501

For her Gold Award project, “Reading Garden and Book Club at the Brielle at Seaview” Emma took on the challenge of creating a sense of community for those in a local assisted living community. She partnered with Brielle at Seaview and a local Girl Scout troop to build a reading garden. Emma even reached out to nearby businesses for supply donations. She created the reading garden from the ground up, giving people living inside the community a safe space to go to. Emma also created a book club for the residents which has been carried on by Brielle at Seaview.

Kate worked to help students improve their reading and math skills through her Gold Award project, “Welcome to the Board: Bet You Can’t Stop Playing”. To reach as many students as possible, she volunteered to share her work with Williston Park School.

Kate created interactive games to show the younger kids what it means to be patient and have good sportsmanship. Following the workshops, Kate donated the board games to the school, allowing students to practice their new skills and pass their knowledge on to other classmates.

Emma is a recent graduate of Lynbrook High School, where she was a member of the National Honor Society and Varsity Swim team. This fall she will be attending the State University of Plattsburgh.

Kate is a rising senior at Herricks High School where she is a member of varsity soccer, bowling, and softball.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is tie-dying tee shirts with her troop and wearing them to Camp Blue Bay.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is the adventures she went on with her troop including camping, hiking, and kayaking.

Nicole Aresta

Manduria Belotte

MERRICK SERVICE UNIT TROOP 2274

GARDEN CITY SERVICE UNIT TROOP 1454

Nicole strove to thank the first responders in her community through her Gold Award project, “Thank You Stars”. She worked with neighborhood volunteers to hand-make the greeting cards and pass them along to the men and women who serve and protect the community. In the process, Nicole was able to bring awareness to the mental health challenges first responders often face on the job. Her work helped first responders see they have the support they need. To help the sentiment live on, Nicole created a Facebook group where anyone can go to, to write and send a card.

Manduria took on the challenge of educating her local schools and other institutions across the country, about the benefits of eating a plant-based diet. In reaching out to more than 50 districts in the U.S., she was able to make superintendents aware of the healthy lunch option.

Her project “Forks Over Knives” provided school leaders with the necessary information. Manduria created a website which features menu options, goals and a mission statement to help them implement plant-based lunch options. The website, along with her Instagram, are available to school leaders 24/7.

Nicole is a recent graduate of Valley Stream North High School. It is where she served as Vice President of the Science Honor Society and Treasurer of the National Technical Honor Society. This fall she will be attending SUNY Farmingdale to study nursing.

As a rising senior at West Hempstead High School, Manduria is actively involved in Student Council, Environmental Club, and World Language Club.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is visiting Boston with her troop. Manduria and her troop-mates spent quality time together watching movies, cooking, and learning from one another.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is going to New York City for a cookie booth sale and getting to spend time with her troop.

10

GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS 2020

THE MARK OF THE TRULY REMARKABLE

Erin Boyle

Colleen Buccellato

MERRICK SERVICE UNIT TROOP 2461

GARDEN CITY SERVICE UNIT TROOP 1254

After noticing her local library lacked reading materials about STEM fields, Erin worked to add a new layer to the summer reading program.

A new section was created allowing students to expand their interests and enrich their love for learning and reading. The North Merrick Library and student volunteers will help carry the program “STEM in Summer Reading” on each year by creating different projects for the young readers.

Through her Gold Award project, “Limits of Technology Use in Primary School Kids,” Colleen strove to make younger students and their families aware of the longterm effects of too much screen time. She worked with educators and leaders in the Garden City School District to pass on the knowledge directly to those who use technology most. Colleen was able to explain how mental and physical health can take a toll, when devices like phones and computers are used excessively. To ensure the lesson also reaches the students’ parents, she created helpful guidelines parents can use at home to limit screen time. The information is available to all families on the district’s website.

Erin is a rising senior. When she’s not in class, she enjoys taking advantage of all Girl Scouts has to offer.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is going Christmas caroling with her Girl Scout troop.

Colleen is a rising Senior at Garden City High School.

She is an active member of her school’s field hockey team and the Miracle Club.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is the trips she took with her troop to see plays and shows in New York City.

Victoria Bruchhauser

Lauren Carillo

WEST HEMPSTEAD/FRANKLIN SQUARE SERVICE UNIT TROOP 1006

MANHASSET SERVICE UNIT TROOP 545

After noticing a need for fire safety lessons beyond elementary school, Victoria created her Gold Award project, “Spark Your Knowledge of Fire Safety”. With the help of local firefighters, she was able to host informational workshops for teenagers. Victoria highlighted several products that they use which may create fire hazards including phone chargers and other electronic devices. Workshop attendees walked away with a fire safety checklist as well as an escape plan, should they find themselves in an emergency.

“Uniting a Diverse Community Through Literacy” was the goal of Lauren’s Gold Award project. She created a book club dedicated to addressing relevant issues affecting her peer group such as bullying, body image, and stress.

Some even created their own stories and shared them with the rest of the group. Lauren worked with the director of Growing Love Community garden to install a Little Free Library. The profound impact Lauren had on her peers, inspired the director to carry on the book club for other young women to be a part of.

Victoria recently completed her freshman year at Adelphi University. She is an active student on campus taking part in more than four clubs.

Lauren is a rising senior at Manhasset High School where she is a peer tutor, a member of Key Club and the varsity softball team.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is making a scarecrow named “Selena Crowmez” at Old Westbury Gardens with her troop.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is making care packages for enlisted soldiers. Her troop helped collect toiletries and baked cookies to put inside the boxes.

11

GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS 2020

THE MARK OF THE TRULY REMARKABLE

Catrina Casella

Kara Clark

ROCKVILLE CENTRE SERVICE UNIT TROOP 837

MASSAPEQUA SERVICE UNIT TROOP 2358 Knowing how valuable speaking more than one language can be, Kara decided to create her Gold Award project, “Language Learners”. To help students find a language they were passionate about, she worked with her school district to educate her peers. Each activity was geared toward one of the six languages students had the chance to study while in school. Kara was able to foster a love for learning and get the younger students excited for what is in store as they learn a new language in middle school. The lesson plans she created are available for free online.

Catrina took on the challenge of protecting her community’s marine life and waters through her Gold Award project “A Safer Environment for Our Aquatic Life”. After noticing fishhooks and other equipment were being left on beaches and in the ocean and bays, she decided to take action. Catrina worked with the Town of Hempstead to install disposals at popular fishing spots. The boxes give fishermen a place to put their used equipment. Catrina was able to reduce the waste landing in waters and harming the animals that live in it.

Kara is a rising senior at Massapequa High School where she is an active member of Model UN and her school’s Spanish and Italian Clubs.

As a rising senior at Kellenberg Memorial High School, Catrina is an active member of the National Honor Society.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is taking a trip to Pennsylvania with her troop, where they spent the weekend working on their Girl Scout Journey.

Her favorite Girl Scout memory is visiting the Old Bethpage Village Restoration with her troop and getting a local history lesson.

Gia Cerulli

Kathryn Cotsalas

ELLM SERVICE UNIT TROOP 2188

FLORAL PARK/BELLEROSE SERVICE UNIT TROOP 1575

Gia took on the challenge of helping young children learn the rules of the water through her Gold Award Project, “Swim Safety”. In using her personal experience as a lifeguard, she created an interactive workshop featuring puzzles, drawings, and games. Each activity focused on a different safety tip the children should use when swimming in the pool. Gia took her knowledge and passed it on to students at local elementary schools.

In attending the workshop, dozens of young children now have the information they need to stay safe in the water.

Kathryn took on the task of teaching her female peers how they can defend themselves through her project, “Personal Safety and Self Defense”. Knowing that many of the young women in her school would be going off to college soon, she wanted to make sure they had the proper tools and knowledge to stand up for themselves. Kathryn hosted a series of workshops, providing attendees with basics on personal safety and methods they can use to help them stay safe.

As a rising sophomore at Baruch College, Gia is currently working toward her bachelor’s degree in the arts.

As a recent graduate of Floral Park Memorial High School, Kathryn was captain of the varsity volleyball team and an active member of the National Honor Society. She will be attending Hofstra University in the fall.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is completing her Gold Award Project by applying her skills as a lifeguard to help children learn important life skills.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is the ritual her troop completed at the end of every meeting when she was a Brownie. Everyone would stand in a circle, hold hands, and make a wish!

12

GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS 2020

THE MARK OF THE TRULY REMARKABLE

Anna Craig

Allison Davis

FLORAL PARK/BELLEROSE SERVICE UNIT TROOP 1575

SEAFORD/WANTAGH SERVICE UNIT TROOP 3239

Anna turned her passion for music into a mission to help others see its importance through her project “The Benefits of Music”. After discovering most people focus on academics, sports, and other ways to advance a child’s development, she created a website to show others the power of music. Anna completed extensive research on the benefits music can have on a child, to create different sections for her website.

Her work caught the eye of her district’s music teachers, and is now being used in the classroom.

Allison was able to address the uncertainty that comes along with being a firsttime pet owner, through her Gold Award project, “Family Pet Adoption Carnival and Education”. She hosted two adoption and information sessions using the knowledge she learned from the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter and Pets4Luv Foundation. Prospective pet owners were given pamphlets on what they can do to make the process of adopting a pet easier. Allison was also able to highlight the many animals in need of a forever home.

As a recent graduate of Floral Park Memorial High School, Anna was a member of the World Language Honor Society, Model UN and band. This fall Anna will be attending Binghamton University’s Decker School of Nursing.

Allison is a recent graduate of Wantagh High School where she was a member of band and Spring Track. This fall, she will be attending Molloy College to study Elementary Education.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is sleeping over at the Long Island Science Museum with her troop when she was a Brownie.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is attending a sleepover at the Long Island Aquarium. She slept right by the shark tank, and even saw a shark eat a fish!

Grace Cutler

Daraeno Ekong

BELLMORE SERVICE UNIT TROOP 911

HEMPSTEAD SERVICE UNIT TROOP 1134

Grace created “Daily Dose” for her Gold Award project, to give teenagers a safe space to learn about challenges their peer group may face during and after high school. To make sure she provided accurate and valuable information, Grace reached out to licensed counselors, who offered advice on how to address mental health struggles and drug abuse. When her research was complete, Grace designed and published a website for her peers to access and learn from. A blog was also created to provide students who may need help, with a list of available resources. Grace’s website and social media accounts will remain active for future use.

Daraeno addressed the lack of college preparedness among her high school peers through her Gold Award project, “Hempstead Speaks”. To help reach as many students as possible, she partnered with Hempstead High School alumni and the school’s PTA to create a list of things students need to accomplish before they apply to college.

Daraeno took the information and passed it on to her classmates through a series of presentations. A website was also created, allowing students and alumni to share advice and network. Daraeno was able to instill a sense of confidence in prospective college students throughout her high school.

As a recent graduate of Long Island Lutheran High School, Grace was a member of Drama Club, and captain of the Varsity Golf Team. She will be attending Boston College in the fall.

Daraeno graduated from Hempstead High School before becoming a student at Yale University. She was president of her school’s Tri-M Honor Society and a member of the National Honor Society. This fall, she will be a sophomore at Yale.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is taking a trip to the city to see a Broadway show with her troop.

13

GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS 2020

THE MARK OF THE TRULY REMARKABLE

Nicole Fauci

Corina Flores

BELLMORE SERVICE UNIT TROOP 911

GARDEN CITY SERVICE UNIT TROOP 1612

Nicole turned her family’s health history into her Gold Award project, “BRCA Gene Awareness”. Nicole worked to educate her community about what it means to have the BRCA gene. She created a series of pamphlets and educational handouts explaining the role it plays in the diagnosis of breast cancer. Nicole took time to pass her knowledge on, by attending street fairs and the 2019 Long Island Breast Cancer forum. She was able to provide people who may be at risk for developing breast cancer, with the information they need to get tested.

Corina took on the challenge of taking care of animals in need in the Dominican Republic, through her Gold Award project “Strayed Communities”. After noticing most of the animals living on the streets were not spayed or neutered, Corina took action. She created a website and YouTube channel to document the story of each animal and explain the need for their critical care. Corina was able to reach out to volunteers in Santo Domingo, to help get the animals off the street. In getting them spayed and neutered, she helped stop them from procreating, and putting more animals at risk.

As a rising sophomore at Binghamton University, Nicole is studying Biological Sciences and Theatre. She is a member of the student-run theatre organization, performing on stage, as well as working behind-the-scenes.

As a rising junior at Garden City High School, Corina is the goalie for her school’s soccer team, a member of varsity track, and an active bowler.

Nicole’s fondest Girl Scout memory is singing with the Girl Scouts of Nassau County Chorus for 9 years.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is going on a trip with her troop to Frost Valley. Corina will cherish all the laughs she had with her friends on the adventure.

Amanda Fishkin

Alyssa Giambrone

HERRICKS SERVICE UNIT TROOP 1856

GARDEN CITY SERVICE UNIT TROOP 1612

Amanda wanted to help prepare her younger peers for high school volleyball with her Gold Award project, “Amanda’s Volleyball Clinic”.

She reached out to her local district and coach to host two hands-on educational sessions. Amanda used her own passion for volleyball to help teach the girls the rules of the game and the different techniques used. She was able to help prepare her younger classmates to play a sometimes-difficult sport. The clinic went so well, the school plans on hosting it before the beginning of each school year.

Alyssa worked to teach elementary students important life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and communication, through her Gold Award project, “Reset for Recess”. After noticing the lack of structure when it came to recess, Alyssa reached out to the PTA, school administration and teachers to make a change. Alyssa hosted a donation collection, asking parents and the community to chip in for supplies like chalk, Hula -Hoops, jump ropes and more. To make sure each class got a chance to use the toys, Alyssa created a sign out system. Each teacher designated a student to pick up the box of supplies at the beginning of recess and return it when finished. Alyssa published a website, educating parents and other schools about the benefits of having a structured recess period.

Amanda just completed her first year at Mercy College where she is working toward her bachelor’s degree in Health Science. She plans on becoming a Physician’s Assistant in Pediatric Orthopedics.

As a rising junior at Scared Heart Academy, Alyssa is an active member of Key Club, the Long Island Aquatic Club swim team, and the Healthcare and Medicine club.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory was selling 1,000 Girl Scout Cookie boxes with her troop, which they later donated to a military base.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is taking a trip to Camp Kaufman with her Brownie troop.

14

GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS 2020

THE MARK OF THE TRULY REMARKABLE

Sophie Goodman

Cara Griffin

CENTRAL PARK SERVICE UNIT TROOP 3251

GARDEN CITY SERVICE UNIT TROOP 1612

“Business Leadership Has No Gender” was the name and message of Sophie’s Gold Award project. She wanted to help give her younger peers in both middle and high school, the tools they need to enter the workforce. With interviewing skills, networking and resume building as core values, Sophie was able to create her website “Lillypad”.

It is equipped with links to career websites, videos, articles, quizzes, and advice from local female business owners. The tools help provide young women looking to find jobs with insight on what it means to be a part of the business world.

To tackle the lack of historical preservation of one of her community’s churches, Cara created her Gold Award project, “The Journey of St. Paul’s”. Combining her love for history and art, she published a children’s book about St. Paul’s, taking those who read it, on a journey of how the structure came to be. In creating the book, Cara was able to open a larger discussion about how preserving pieces of history, is often overlooked in other communities, too. Cara hosted an interactive book tour and made her book available at the Garden City Library and local shops to educate even more people about the importance of studying local history.

Sophie is a recent graduate of John F. Kennedy High School. As a student, she was an active member in band, and volunteered at her local synagogue’s youth group. She plans on going to The Ohio State University (Fisher College of Business).

As a rising junior at Sacred Heart Academy, Cara is an AP and honors student, a member of cross-country track, and a member of her school’s varsity golf team.

Cara’s fondest Girl Scout memory is traveling with her troop to New York City, Washington D.C., and Salem, Massachusetts.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is baking at the Ronald McDonald House with her troop.

Sophia Gresalfi

Eloise Griffin

GREAT NECK SERVICE UNIT TROOP 624

PORT WASHINGTON SERVICE UNIT TROOP 429

Sophia worked to find animals in need of a home through her Gold Award project, “Rescue the Rabbits and Other Homeless Pets”. She used her planning skills to set up a series of educational workshops at local schools and camps.

Sophia was able to provide families information on the benefits of adopting a pet, as well as what it means to be a first-time pet owner. She was able to help reduce the probability of abandoned pets ending up in shelters. Sophia was also able to give some of the animals in local shelters the home they deserve.

Eloise took on the challenge of educating her community about how service dogs are raised through her Gold Award project, “Service Dog Outreach”. She decided to experience the process first-hand, by raising a puppy named Hattie for Canine Companions for Independence. Eloise documented her journey and turned what she learned into information sessions. She and Hattie then went to schools, summer camps and various community events showing people what it takes to raise a service dog, which are essential for many people living with disabilities.

Sophia is a recent graduate of Great Neck South High school where she was an active member of the art club, ceramics club, and Varsity Golf and Field Hockey teams. She will be attending Wesleyan University in the fall.

As a rising senior at Schreiber High School, Eloise is an active member of her school’s theatre company. She enjoys acting and writing her own stories.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is taking a trip to Woodloch Pines resort with her troop. The whole way there, they sang songs from Hamilton and participated in team building activities.

15

GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS 2020

THE MARK OF THE TRULY REMARKABLE

Lauren Hayes

Amritha Jacob

MANHASSET SERVICE UNIT TROOP 500

BELLMORE SERVICE UNIT TROOP 967

Lauren addressed a health crisis in her community through her Gold Award project, “Acing Childhood Obesity”.

To educate children in third through sixth grade about the importance of eating healthy, Lauren reached out to Shelter Rock Elementary Schools. She received permission to host informational sessions, discussing what it means to have a balanced diet, and finding ways to stay active. Lauren worked to make every Friday a day to teach students healthy lifestyle techniques. Students are now taking the skills and tips they learn at school and using them at home.

Amritha jump-started an important conversation in her community through her Gold Award project, “Race and Diversity: Let’s Talk About It”.

In working with ERASE Racism Long Island, Amrtiha was able to create an educational workshop, which she shared with students and their families. Each participant gained important knowledge on how they can make the world a more fair, just, and better place. Amritha passed her presentation on to ERASE Racism Long Island. It is now being used to help educate other communities across the region.

As a rising senior at Calhoun High School, Amritha is an award-winning member of Model Congress, and an ambassador to the Cohen Strong anti-bullying program.

As a recent graduate of Sacred Heart Academy, Lauren was an active member on her school’s volleyball team and participated in the “She’s the First” club, which promotes female education in third world countries. This fall, Lauren will be attending Loyola University Maryland’s Honors Program.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is participating in the annual bake-off with all of her friends from her troop.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is earning her Silver Award by making a troop cookbook. Each girl made a recipe for someone else in the troop.

Jillian Holweger

Juliana Kenna

MANHASSET SERVICE UNIT TROOP 511

FLORAL PARK/BELLEROSE SERVICE UNIT TROOP 1575

Jillian sought to teach young children about different environmental issues through her Gold Award project, “Manhasset Greenwise Kids”.

To help get her message across, Jillian created a series of lesson plans and hands-on activities for the students. She was able to educate them and help them understand the impact they can have on the environment. Jillian launched a website, where her lesson plans and activities now live, to motivate others to live greener and change the world for the better.

Juliana used her artistic abilities and knowledge of smartphones to create her Gold Award project, “Creative Photography Workshop Using your Smartphone”. In realizing many smartphones users are unaware of all the functions the camera holds, Juliana hosted multiple workshops to show attendees how it works. She was able to reach many different age groups from middle school-ageds kids, all the way to adults.

Those who attended Juliana’s sessions are now using the skills they learned to take better photos. Juliana made an Instagram account, giving anyone access to tips and tools to help enhance their photography skills.

As a recent graduate of Manhasset High School, Jillian was a member of the Italian, Social Studies and National Honor Societies. She was also an active member on her school’s tennis team. This fall, Jillian will be attending Boston College.

As a recent graduate of Floral Park Memorial High School, Juliana was the president of the photography club and her school’s mascot. This fall, she will be attending Quinnipiac University.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is going to Greenkill with her troop for the weekend.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is being able to share her Girl Scout experience with her mom, who was also her troop leader.

16

GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS 2020

THE MARK OF THE TRULY REMARKABLE

Bernadette Kilkelly

Sophia Kraupner

ELLM SERVICE UNIT TROOP 2188

SHORE SERVICE UNIT TROOP 48

Bernadette took on the challenge of educating her community about the impact eating meat and fish can have on the environment. Through her Gold Award project, “Responsible Consumption of Meat and Fish”, Bernadette was able to help others understand that their diet can have an impact on the planet and the animals that call it home. To reach as many people as possible, Bernadette created educational pamphlets and hosted informational sessions at her local farmers markets. The legacy of her project lives on through a website she created, to inform others about her cause.

Sophia addressed a global concern on a community level through her Gold Award project, “The Viking Waterhole”. After noticing middle schoolers had little knowledge about water pollution, Sophia decided to transform the school’s pond and create an outdoor classroom. She worked with a local plant shop to purchase plants and installed a bench to go around the pond. Sophia held educational sessions, informing students about each plant, and the role they play in keeping the environment healthy.

The middle school’s environmental club is now carrying out Sophia’s mission and inspiring more students to take better care of the Earth.

As a rising sophomore at SUNY New Paltz, Bernadette is an active member of her university’s radio station.

As a recent graduate of North Shore High School, Sophia was an active member of the National Honor Society and the National Language Honor Society. This fall, Sophia will be attending SUNY Oneonta.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is hosting booth sales with her troop during cookie season.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is collecting food donations with her troop, to help those in need during Thanksgiving and the holiday season.

Alexis Kotanidis

Hema Kumar

BELLMORE SERVICE UNIT TROOP 915

WARM SERVICE UNIT TROOP 1860

Alexis helped tackle an emerging health crisis in the country through her Gold Award project “The Story of Anxious Lexi”. Wanting to make sure children and young adults have resources to help treat anxiety and depression, Alexis built and published a website. It features coping mechanisms to help those struggling, as well as a blog section. It gives people the ability to speak to someone when they may not have anyone to turn to right away.

Alexis’ website and blog continue to be used by young adults each day.

Hema challenged the younger children in her community to be more inclusive of those living with disabilities, through her Gold Award project, “Defeating Diseases”.

In partnering with a local elementary school and its enrichment teacher, Hema hosted a series of workshops. She educated students about different disabilities such as Dyslexia and Tourette’s syndrome. In helping the children identify and understand the different challenges some other students may face, Hema was able to help them break the stigma on what it means to be different.

A website was created allowing parents to continue the conversation at home, and other teachers in the district to encourage future education on the topic.

As a recent graduate of Kellenberg Memorial High School, Alexis helped organize pep rallies, was a four-time bowling champion, and an athletic Marianist. This fall, Alexis will be attending Molloy University.

As a recent graduate of The Wheatley School, Hema was a peer tutor, and a member of the Golf Team. She will be attending Fordham University in the fall.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is the bridging ceremony she participated in when moving from a Daisy to a Brownie.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is decorating turkeys with her troop and sharing what each Girl Scout was thankful for during the holiday season.

17

GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS 2020

THE MARK OF THE TRULY REMARKABLE

Ella Labate

Jaime Levy

GARDEN CITY SERVICE UNIT TROOP 1254

CENTRAL PARK SERVICE UNIT TROOP 3251

Wanting to share her passion for art with others, Ella created her Gold Award project, “Art Therapy with Senior Citizens”.

To create her workshops, Ella leaned on her experience of volunteering in senior homes with her troop. Once ready, she hosted a series of art therapy sessions at two local senior homes. The materials and instructions were donated to the Garden City High School’s art department, so students can help continue Ella’s community service efforts.

Jaime took on the challenge of introducing STEM curriculum into her district’s special education program through her Gold Award project “STEM for All”. After noticing the subjects were only a key aspect of general education, Jamie decided to create her own workshops, giving children with special needs the chance to show off their creativity. It not only made them feel more included, but helped the students realize they can do anything they put their minds to. The workshop materials are now being used at the Adler Center to help inspire even more students.

As a rising senior at Garden City High School, Ella is a member of the metropolitan youth orchestra. Outside of school, Ella is a dedicated member of the Garden City Varsity Gymnastics team.

As a recent graduate of Plainview Old Bethpage John F Kennedy High School, Jamie was chief chairperson for the Model United Nations Club and president of Mathletes. This fall, Jamie will be attending Cornell University.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is going to the city each year to see a Broadway show of their choosing.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is taking a trip to the Ronald McDonald House with her troop, and baking different desserts.

Lily Labella

Angelina Livigni

PORT WASHINGTON SERVICE UNIT TROOP 411

PORT WASHINGTON SERVICE UNIT TROOP 407

For her Gold Award project, Lily strove to give aspiring young writers in her community a platform to share their work. Her project, “Inspired Ink” is now a page that lives on the Port Washington Public Library’s website. Writers can educate themselves about different poetry styles. If comfortable, users can share their work with others, and showcase everything from short stories, to book reviews and more. To help foster a love for literature in others, Lily is helping middle school volunteers share her message with other grades.

Angelina aimed to reduce the contamination of her community’s recycle bins through her Gold Award project, “Waste Less, Recycle More!”. Knowing that the younger generations will play a key role in protecting the environment, Angelina decided to host a series of educational workshops for elementary school kids. She helped show them why it is important to put recyclables in the correct bins. Signs were also created and placed throughout the neighborhood to educate others. To help her cause live on, Angelina created a website. Anyone can become a member of “EcoEvents” and encourage others to go green.

Lily is a rising senior at Schreiber High School where she is Vice President of the National English Honor Society, editor of the Kaleidoscope Literary Magazine and a member of Varsity Cross-Country and Track teams.

As a rising junior at Paul D. Schreiber High School, Angelica is an active member of her school’s campus. Outside of the classroom, she is working towards her 3rd degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is earning her Bronze and Silver Awards with her troop. The two projects went on to help Lily earn her Gold Award.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is building a garden for the North Hempstead Animal Shelter with her troop.

18

GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS 2020

THE MARK OF THE TRULY REMARKABLE

Abigail Loiselle

Mary Menger

ELLM SERVICE UNIT TROOP 2000

GARDEN CITY SERVICE UNIT TROOP 1254

Abigail took her passion for teaching to create her Gold Award project, “Backpack Literacy Program”. She worked with a local kindergarten center to help foster a love for reading and writing.

In hosting a series of workshops, Abigail was able to help show parents the benefits of incorporating literature into their child’s everyday life. To help carry the mission on outside of the classroom, Abigail donated backpacks full of supplies, books, and games, that the students took home. Teachers and staff at the Lynbrook Kindergarten Center are now continuing the program Abigail created.

Mary addressed the global issue of plastic pollution through her Gold Award project, “Keep our Seas Plastic Free”. To educate her community on the issue, Mary worked with the Ocean Beach Youth Group. She created interactive workshops, giving campers the chance to create items, such as bird feeders, out of waste that would normally end up in the ocean. Mary helped those who attended understand the importance of reducing, reusing, and recycling plastic products. A sewing machine and other project materials were donated to the Ocean Beach Youth Group, to help educate future campers.

As a recent graduate of Lynbrook High School, Abigail was a member of the National Honor Society and her school’s theatre department. This fall, Abigail will be attending SUNY Cortland.

As a rising senior at Sacred Heart Academy, Mary is an active member of the National Honor Society, Spanish Club, and her school’s Science Olympiad team.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is taking a trip to Frost Valley with her troop, where they stayed inside a castle and participated in fun activities like rock climbing.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is participating in her troop’s annual bake-off, where she and her friends got to try each other’s creations.

Mary McKenna

Rachel Nayar

SEAFORD/WANTAGH SERVICE UNIT TROOP 3133

SEAFORD/WANTAGH SERVICE UNIT TROOP 3239

Mary helped tackle a growing problem in the age of technology through her Gold Award project, “Literacy: Fostering the Love of Learning”.

In noticing a lack of interest when it comes to reading among kindergarteners, Mary developed an educational program to help both students and their parents.

The workshops helped families understand the benefits of reading, and the different ways parents can work to encourage reading outside of school. Mary helped build a Free Little Library at Pixie school, allowing the kids to pick out books they want to read. All the workshop materials were donated to the school, for future students and parents to use and learn from.

Rachel took on the challenge of keeping children safe during their bus ride home through her Gold Award project, “Bus Safety”. After noticing a rise in bullying on school buses, Rachel formed her own club to help raise awareness. She worked with teachers and students to create and post flyers about the negative impact bullying can have. The club is now being managed by other students, who will continue to educate kids and teens on the ways they can encourage kindness and friendship.

As a rising sophomore at St. Anthony’s High School, Mary is a member of the Friar Faithful Club and a varsity swimmer for her school’s team. She is also a competitive swimmer for Long Island Express and is currently training for the Olympic Trials.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is working at a soup kitchen with her troop, and helping serve those in need.

Rachel is a recent graduate of St. Anthony’s High School.

She will be attending Saint John’s University in the fall.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is camping with her troop at Camp Blue Bay and making s’mores.

19

GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS 2020

THE MARK OF THE TRULY REMARKABLE

Olivia Nester

Mia Perulli

SHORE SERVICE UNIT TROOP 48

MANHASSET SERVICE UNIT TROOP 407

Olivia took on the challenge of educating her community about the dangers of Lyme disease through her Gold Award project, “Ticked Off”. In working with both high school and elementary school students, Olivia was able to reach a wide range of people. She completed hours of research on the tick-carrying disease before creating a PowerPoint presentation and sharing it with her peers. The lessons she created have been permanently incorporated into her district’s curriculum to help students understand the importance of keeping an eye out for ticks, in order to prevent Lyme disease.

Mia worked to encourage dog owners and their pets to live a healthier lifestyle through her Gold Award project, “Live, Walk, Bark”. After noticing the lack of agility equipment inside the Manorhaven dog park, Mia decided to make a change. She partnered with her area Home Depot and her city’s mayor to install new equipment, giving families the chance to get more exercise during their visit. Mia also created a website for pet owners, to educate them on the benefits of agility training.

As a rising junior at Paul D Schreiber High School, Mia is president of the Class of 2020 club and a dedicated member of the Latin Club.

As a recent graduate of North Shore High School, Olivia was the principal double bassist in her school’s orchestra, a lifeguard, and a film photographer. This fall, she will be attending Cornell University.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is cleaning up a local river with her troop.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is taking a camping trip to Wildwood State park with her troop, where they made ice cream and told scary stories.

Marcia Noel

Alexa Petrunoff

BALDWIN SERVICE UNIT TROOP 2331

PORT WASHINGTON SERVICE UNIT TROOP 411

Marcia successfully introduced the students in her school district and community to healthier food through her Gold Award project, “Health and Nutrition Awareness”. To help accomplish her goal, Marcia wrote and published a bimonthly newsletter on her school’s website, providing the community with tips and ways they can incorporate a healthier lifestyle into their day-to-day activities. Marcia also created informational pamphlets which were passed on to the school’s varsity soccer team.

To make sure her classmates had healthy snack options, Marcia worked with the school’s principal to install vending machines in the cafeteria.

Alexa saw the need for educating her community on the importance of wearing sunscreen and created her Gold Award project, “Stay Safe in the Sun and You’ll Have More Fun”. Port Washington is a waterfront town where dozens of kids and teens participate in summer activities. Alexa worked with the area’s Yacht Club to inform campers about the benefits of wearing sunscreen, and the dangers that can come from not wearing it. With her help, a local organization donated a gallon of sunscreen to the club. Alexa’s materials are now being used to help current and future campers stay safe during the warmer months.

Marcia is a recent graduate of Baldwin Senior High School.

This fall she will be attending Long Island University.

As a rising senior at Sacred Heart Academy, Alexa is president of the Italian Club and an active member of the National Honor Society.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is attending troop meetings every Friday after school. Marcia will never forget the lifelong friendships she has made along the way.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is visiting Manhattan each year with her troop, to donate gifts to kids in need through Operation Santa.

20

GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS 2020

THE MARK OF THE TRULY REMARKABLE

Veronica Pioreck

Regina Reisig

MASSAPEQUA SERVICE UNIT TROOP 2084

GARDEN CITY SERVICE UNIT TROOP 1612

Veronica helped instill a love for reading among younger children through her Gold Award project, “Promoting Literacy in Young Children”.

In noticing the negative impact video games and too much screen time can have on one’s reading comprehension, Veronica worked with her local library to make a change. She held multiple workshops, reading books to attendees, and guiding them through a craft, to show just how fun reading can be. The materials Veronica created are now being used by the library to help other kids in the neighborhood.

Regina took on the challenge of raising awareness about breast cancer through her Gold Award project, “Moving Liz’s Day into the 21st Century”. Liz’s Day is a foundation and annual event aimed at bringing people together to support breast cancer research. Regina created a social media platform, website and posters encouraging those in the community to support the cause. Regina used her skills to help draw attention to the foundation and the work it does. Other board members will help to carry on Regina’s efforts to reach more families through Liz’s Day.

As a recent graduate of Massapequa High School, Veronica was an active member of the German Club, Shared Decision-Making Club, and an athlete for her school’s varsity golf team. This fall she will be attending Binghamton University.

As a rising junior at Dominican Academy, Regina works with her campus to help serve those in need. She is also a classical pianist and is currently studying dance.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is taking part in the Salem Witch Hunt with her troop.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is taking a trip to Rocking Horse Ranch with her troop and being able to share her Girl Scout experience with her mom/troop leader.

Elana Pocress

Olivia Riegler

OCEANSIDE SERVICE UNIT TROOP 2417

CENTRAL PARK SERVICE UNIT TROOP 3251

Elana worked to help educate young girls about the importance of STEAM through her Gold Award Project, “Code for a Change”. After reading and becoming inspired by the book, “Learn to Code and Change the World”, she complied her own curriculum. Through a series of workshops, Elana was able to share her knowledge with her younger peers and introduce them to the world of computer science. To help carry on her message, she also created a website. It contains the curriculum used to host her coding workshops, as well as information on exposing the gender gap in tech.

Olivia used her Gold Award project, “CRPS Awareness” to shed a light on a painful disease that affects roughly 200,000 people each year.

Incorrect treatment of symptoms can lead to even more pain for those diagnosed with CRPS, so Olivia created pamphlets and held a series of educational workshops.

She was able to reach a variety of age groups, by speaking at her local high school, the town board meeting and with other community members. Olivia created a website, giving anyone access to her research and information about CRPS. As a recent graduate of John F Kennedy High School, Olivia was on the varsity cheerleading team and golf team. She will be attending Bloomsburg University.

As a recent graduate of Oceanside High School, Elana served as the president of the Science Olympiad team and the president of Mathletes. In the fall, Elana will be attending Cornell University.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is baking desserts and collecting goods to donate to the Ronald McDonald House.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is spending her summers at Camp Blue Bay and making new friends with her fellow Girl Scouts.

21

GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS 2020

THE MARK OF THE TRULY REMARKABLE

Caitlin Rinaldi

Amanda Rogers

BELLMORE SERVICE UNIT TROOP 951

CENTRAL PARK SERVICE UNIT TROOP 3034

After noticing the hurdles some students were facing when it came to the Common Core, Caitlin created her Gold Award project, “Peer Tutors: Save Money, Learn Better”.

She used her experience as a tutor and considered the most common problems she saw, to make up individualized lesson plans. Caitlin worked with her other classmates to form a group to help younger students fill in the gaps. The one-on-one program helped several students improve their grades. Caitlin’s peers are helping to carry on the club at Kennedy High School, giving even more students the chance to learn and grow.

Amanda aimed to get children with Visual Processing Disorder the care they needed through her Gold Award project, “Two Eyes, One Vision”.

In noticing the disorder is not well known and often overlooked, Amanda decided to raise awareness within her community. She visited several elementary schools across Long Island, educating both students and parents on the signs and symptoms of the disorder. Amanda recorded her presentation and posted it on YouTube giving anyone who needs it, access to vital information.

As a rising sophomore at Colorado School of Mines, Amanda is studying Mechanical Engineering. She is also an active member of her campus’ equestrian team.

As a rising sophomore at the University of Maryland, Caitlin is on her way to becoming a pediatrician. When she is not in class, she dedicates her time to community service.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is making dream catchers with her troop to exchange at the annual Rocking Horse Ranch trip.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is celebrating International Day where she learned about different cultures and tried new foods.

Emily Rodgers

Isabella Schneiderman

GLEN COVE SERVICE UNIT TROOP 1844

HERRICKS SERVICE UNIT TROOP 1501

Through her Gold Award project, “The Little Seedling Project”, Emily was able to help introduce children to gardening and the benefits it can have. In working with the Glen Cove Library, Emily distributed gardening kits during educational workshops. Students learned about the environmental impacts of planting flowers and vegetables as well as the role it can play in having a healthy lifestyle. Emily donated the workshop materials to the library and local Boys and Girls Club to help even more students understand the ways they can change the planet for the better.

Isabella helped committed dancers stand out from the crowd and get the recognition they deserve through her Gold Award project “Creating Opportunities”. In working with several local dance studios, Isabella was able to create an honor society. A points system was established to determine criteria for acceptance. Her tools have been donated to the new honor society for dance, allowing teachers and instructors to induct future members.

As a rising senior in high school, Isabella is on her school’s cheer and lacrosse teams. Outside of school, she is an active dancer.

Emily is a recent graduate of Long Island Lutheran High School where she was president of the orchestra and an active member of her school’s Model UN and Debate clubs. This fall she will be attending Binghamton University.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is working at the Girl Scout Store and using it as an opportunity to improve her public speaking and money management skills.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is going to the 100th Anniversary Celebration for Girl Scouts in Washington D.C. Emily went with her troop, and it is a journey she will cherish forever.

22

GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS 2020

THE MARK OF THE TRULY REMARKABLE

Britney Sirota

Ashley Streithorst

SEAFORD/WANTAGH SERVICE UNIT TROOP 3239

BALDWIN SERVICE UNIT TROOP 2435 Ashley took on the challenge of helping pet owners in her community give their dogs a better life through her Gold Award project, “Pet Nutrition”. After noticing some dogs in her neighborhood were overweight, Ashley decided to make a change.

In hosting a series of educational workshops, she was able to help inform families about how much food their dogs should be getting, and what an appropriate weight is, based on size and breed.

Ashley has helped multiple owners by showing them what it means to have a healthy lifestyle.

Britney used a pressing issue in her community to create her Gold Award project, “Student Health First”. After noticing nurses were not required to go on school trips out of state, she decided to make a change. On a trip to Florida last year, a nurse tagged along, looking out for the health and well-being of the students on the trip. In making the suggestion, she was able to make an impact on a statewide level. Britney worked with her local Assemblyman to pass legislation that requires that all chaperones on school trips, be trained in first aid.

As a recent graduate of Long Island Lutheran High School, Ashley was a member of the National Honor Society and her school’s lacrosse team. This fall she will be attending the University of Delaware, pursuing a career in veterinary medicine.

As a rising sophomore at Manhattanville College, Britney is an active representative for the class of 2023 and plays on her school’s lacrosse team.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is spending time at Camp Blue Bay.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is camping with her troop at North-South lake where they slept in tents and made their own food.

Madison Spanodemos

Katerina Van Noy

ROCKVILLE CENTRE SERVICE UNIT TROOP 9030

GARDEN CITY SERVICE UNIT TROOP 9012 Through her Gold Award project, “Girl Supporting Girls”, Katerina helped her younger peers address common challenges they may have to overcome. In hosting discussion groups, Katerina focused on bullying, body image, peer pressure, social anxiety, and depression. She created a safe space, giving young women the chance to ask for advice and form new friendships with people who may be going through similar hardships. “Girls Supporting Girls” is now a permanent club at Garden City High School.

New officers will be appointed each year, to help Katerina’s message live on.

Madison tackled the lack of youth involvement in local government through her Gold Award project, “From Passion to Action”. To reach as many students as possible, Madison created a crash course in American government and politics and posted it on the website she created. To get a first-hand account of what it is like to be a politician, Madison worked with local elected officials to tape and share interviews of their experience and knowledge on the website.

More than 25 candidates have now established internships on their campaigns, giving students the opportunity to learn about what it means to serve as a local leader.

Katerina is a recent graduate of Garden City High School where she was an active member of student council and the Spanish and Business Honor Societies. This fall she will be attending Hofstra University.

Madison is a rising senior at Our Lady of Mercy Academy. She is a dedicated Girl Scout, participating in numerous activities like Media Girls, Girls Speak, and the Ceremonial Unit.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is taking a trip with her troop to the District Attorney’s Office in Manhattan to learn all about how the court system works.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is participating in the NASA Astronomy Program

23

GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS 2020

THE MARK OF THE TRULY REMARKABLE

Nora Vasek

Christina Wile

MANHASSET SERVICE UNIT TROOP 565

SHORE SERVICE UNIT TROOP 48

Through her Gold Award project, “Stress Management for Kids”, Nora was able to help children in her community better understand and control their emotions. Nora hosted a series of informational workshops, and helped participants complete hands-on-activities, identify signs of stress, and how to manage it in a healthy way. In creating a website, Nora continues to reach families in her community, by providing them with valuable information about stress management.

Christina tackled an emerging issue in her community through her Gold Award project, “Improving Child Literacy for Underserved Children Through Increased Access”. In working with her local library, Christina was able to help impoverished children gain access to reading materials. In recognizing how important reading at a young age is, she created a literacy program to foster a love for literacy. Christina’s materials are now being used to help even more students improve their skills.

Nora is a rising sophomore at Villanova University where she is a member of her campus’ Special Olympics event and NOVAdance, a yearlong fundraiser for pediatric cancer.

As a recent graduate of North Shore High School, Christina was a member of the National Honor Society, editor of the yearbook and president of the fashion club. This fall, Christina will be attending Cornell University.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is having a sleepover at the Museum of Natural History with her troop.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is spending every Monday with her friends, during troop meetings.

Kathryn Weglarz

Amber Wilkins

MASSAPEQUA SERVICE UNIT TROOP 2084

ELLM SERVICE UNIT TROOP 2188

Kathryn used her personal experience in discovering who she is to create her Gold Award project “Be True to You”. In working with preteens and teens, Kathryn was able to help them address the obstacles they may face growing up. She took her sessions to her local church and after-school clubs. Kathryn’s lesson plans are now being used to help other teens who may be struggling. She also created a Facebook page, giving those in her community the chance to seek help when and if they need it.

Amber helped her classmates improve their public speaking skills through her Gold Award project, “Debate Team”. Amber partnered with her school’s principal and several advisors to form a Debate Team Club at the high school. A PowerPoint presentation and two websites were created to inform her student body and district about the benefits of debate team. With Amber’s hard work and dedication, the club was established, giving students the ability to use their voices to make a change.

As a recent graduate of Massapequa High School, Kathryn was an active member of her school’s tennis team. This fall she will be attending Nassau Community College.

As a recent graduate of Malverne High School, Amber was an active member of the National Honor Society, helping to organize various student events. This fall she will be attending St. John’s University.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is completing her Silver Award with her best friend.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is taking an overnight trip to an aquarium in Connecticut where her troop “slept with the fishes”.

24

GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS 2020

THE MARK OF THE TRULY REMARKABLE

Ashley Zingale BALDWIN SERVICE UNIT TROOP 2435 Ashley helped her fellow students close the gap between their lack of knowledge when it comes to personal financial literacy. Through her Gold Award project, “Personal Finances for Youth”, Ashley taught more than 100 middle schoolers how to budget their money, prevent identity theft, and what it means to be an owner of a credit card. Ashley took her lesson plans and created a website, so middle and high schoolers in her community can learn more about how to save and use their money wisely.

As a recent graduate of Baldwin High School, Ashley was an active member of the National Honor Society and vice president of the FBLA Club. This fall, Ashley will be attending SUNY Farmingdale.

We thank our partner, JCPenney Portraits who have donated some of these lovely portraits of our Gold Award Girl Scouts.

We thank them for their support, and look forward to working with them in the future.

These outstanding portraits capture the unique beauty of each of our Gold Award Girl Scouts.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is going camping with her troop and completing the challenge of building a fire in the rain.

Girl Scouts Salutes . . . the Military for starting Gold Award Girl Scouts at a higher pay grade when they enlist and these local colleges that recognize the value of Girl Scouts by offering Girl Scout Gold Award scholarships:

Olivia Zino GARDEN CITY SERVICE UNIT TROOP 1612 Olivia’s Gold Award Project “Atypical Fun” focused on the inclusion of students in the special education program. In working with three different schools in the Franklin Square district, she was able to create five sessions of summer fun for different age groups.

It gave them the chance to interact with others outside the special education program.

Weekly lesson plans, crafts and activities were all created to help the students learn from one another. All of the program materials are available on the Instagram page she created, giving other educators a foundation for inclusion.

Adelphi University Hofstra University Molloy College St. John’s University For an expanded list of the Gold Award Scholarships available to Girl Scouts visit the GSUSA website www.girlscouts.org

As a rising junior at the Mary Louis Academy, Olivia is an active member of her school’s debate team and drama club. She also acts as an ambassador for future students.

Her fondest Girl Scout memory is taking a trip to visit Washington D.C. where she saw the White House, Capitol Building and Mount Vernon.

25

GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS 2020

THE MARK OF THE TRULY REMARKABLE

We

challenge you, 2020 Gold Award Girl Scouts, to accept this Award in the spirit in which it is given to you. Know that with this award comes responsibility. As you enter this covenant of esteemed women, know that you are regarded with honor and respect. Live worthy of this by living by the Girl Scout Law. l We challenge you to remain honest and fair in all your dealings in this world while remaining true to yourself. l We challenge you to be friendly and helpful to everyone you meet as you go through life. Celebrate the diversity of your fellow human beings.

l We challenge you to be considerate and caring to all living things, human and animal. Always being mindful of those in need, and the feelings of others. l We challenge you to be courageous and strong in all you do. Stand strong in the face of adversity and share your courage with those around you. l We challenge you to be responsible for what you say and do. Think before you speak and act. Be sure everything you say and do reflects well on you and your family. l We challenge you to respect yourself, so you may respect others. Strive for excellence in all you do and recognize the accomplishments of others. l We challenge you to respect authority. Follow the laws of your country and nature. Be mindful of your rights as well as your responsibilities as a citizen of this great nation. l We challenge you to use resources wisely. Never waste the resources of nature. Use your talents to better the world, and to protect our planet. l We challenge you to make this world a better place. Continue to use your abilities to leave your mark on the world. By your words, actions and deeds you can make a difference. l We challenge you to be a sister to every Girl Scout. Help younger girls to reach the top as you have. Support them on their journey to the Gold Award. l By accepting this challenge you become a changed woman. You become part of an elite group who recognize that receiving this Gold Award is not one celebratory moment, but a lifetime commitment.

PLEASE PLEDGE TO THE FOLLOWING: I affirm my dedication to live by the Girl Scout Promise and Law. I understand my obligation to live with honor and to lead by example because the highest award of Girl Scouting has been entrusted to me.

I will do my best to support other Girl Scouts on their road to Gold and to give back to Girl Scouting what it has given me.

I will respect others and live my life by the Girl Scout Law. I will remain worthy of respect as one forever bound to the ideals of Girl Scouting.

When you earn your Girl Scout Gold Award, you have a better understanding of the world around you, become leaders of the future, and most of all, can now accomplish absolutely anything. Earning your Girl Scout Gold Award makes you unstoppable!

26

GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS 2020

THE MARK OF THE TRULY REMARKABLE

A FEW WAYS TO REMAIN CONNECTED: Have some free time? Share your skills and time with a new generation of girls.

Stay a part of the Girl Scout Movement, and join the nearly one million other volunteers helping girls make a lasting impact on the world.

• Assist at Council or Service Unit events. For more information contact us at gsnetwork@gsnc.org • Going out of town for college, specialized training or a full time job? Connect with sister Girl Scouts at the Council serving your area. Visit www.girlscouts.org and search by zip code.

• Follow the Girl Scout Network on LinkedIn http://bit.ly/gradgirl, where you’ll have the opportunity to stay connected to Girl Scouts and expand your network. Check out LinkedIn’s best practices for creating a standout profile and highlighting your trailblazing Girl Scout experiences.

• To continue membership as an adult Girl Scout you can register annually: $25.00 or • Invest in a Lifetime Membership for $200.00* (a $400 value).

Visit www.girlscouts.org/LTM *This opportunity is available to graduating High School Seniors and young Alum until their 30th birthday.

Cookie Credits can be used toward the purchase of a lifetime membership.

Financial assistance is available to those in need.

Volunteer opportunities are numerous and each one has the potential to assist you in meeting your goals by providing career exploration, networking opportunities, skill development and other valuable experiences. Therefore, anywhere life’s path takes you, Girl Scouts will be there. Consider staying connected.

We wish you life-long learning and caring.

27

GOLD AWARD GIRL SCOUTS 2020

THE MARK OF THE TRULY REMARKABLE