As we celebrate Black History Month, the Girl Scouts of Central and Southern New Jersey (GSCSNJ) wants to spotlight an amazing journey that not only honored the past but also paves a path toward a brighter, more inclusive future. Thanks to the generous support from the Community Planning and Advocacy Council (CPAC), a group of fourteen intrepid Girl Scouts from Eastside High School in Camden City discovered up-close the profound legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This program, a first of its kind for GSCSNJ, was spearheaded by Monica Davis, GSCSNJ Membership Services Manager, who envisioned an experience that would align with the Girl Scout mission while immersing girls into the rich culture and history of HBCUs.
The tour included visits to Coppin State University in Baltimore, the University of the District of Columbia, and Howard University—each steeped in academic excellence and cultural heritage. HBCUs have long stood as vital institutions providing educational pathways for students of color, offering unique academic opportunities that foster a sense of community and cultural identity. Just as the Girl Scouts champion diversity, equity, and inclusion, HBCUs prepare their graduates to lead and excel in a diverse global society.
Camden Girl Scouts Visit Howard University
During their visits, the Girl Scouts were greeted by student tour guides who shared the rich histories of each campus. These guides highlighted the founding and development of the HBCUs, their role in African American history, and the broad range of programs, majors, student life activities, and critical resources such as scholarships and financial aid. Through these stories and explorations, the girls learned about the power of education and the importance of institutions that prioritize representation and community.
Amani Klass, GSCSNJ Grant Administrator, reflected on the tour's impact, emphasizing how HBCUs are crucial in providing higher education opportunities for African American students and fostering a sense of community, culture, and identity. This experience empowered the Camden City Girl Scouts by reinforcing the importance of representation and inspired them to focus on their future goals academically, socially, and professionally.
The story of these Girl Scouts visiting HBCUs is more than a tale of a field trip; it is a narrative of empowerment, education, and the enduring legacy of HBCUs in shaping future leaders. It underscores the importance of providing young girls with opportunities to dream big and aim high. This initiative highlights how community programs can be pivotal in shaping the leaders of tomorrow by connecting them with institutions with a long history of promoting excellence among students.
As we celebrate Black History Month, let us recognize the transformative power of education and the role of HBCUs in preserving a rich cultural heritage and fostering an environment where young girls can envision a future without limits. The journey of these eleven Girl Scouts is a reminder that with courage, confidence, and character, we all can leave an indelible mark on the world.
For more information about this program and how to sponsor others like it, contact Amani Klaus at aklass@gscsnj.org
Camden Girl Scouts also found time to celebrate community while on their HBCU tour.
Girl Scouts bring their dreams to life and work together to build a better world. Through programs, Girl Scouts of all backgrounds and abilities can be unapologetically themselves as they discover their strengths and rise to meet new challenges—whether they want to climb to the top of a tree or the top of their class, lace up their boots for a hike or advocate for climate justice, or make their first best friends. Backed by trusted adult volunteers, mentors, and millions of alums, Girl Scouts lead the way as they find their voices and make changes that affect the issues most important to them.