Collegiate Girl Scouts: There's s'mores than meets the eye

Who can resist the lure of Girl Scout cookies? Soon enough you'll be able to get your fill, right here on campus. But it won't be the typical Girl Scouts that give you your sugar fix; it will be troop #795, the Collegiate Girl Scouts.

USI's Collegiate Girl Scouts, an officially registered troop, is one of only a few college-affiliated Girl Scout troops in the nation. The idea was born after President Linda L.M. Bennett met with Pat Bateman, chief development officer of the Girl Scouts of Southwestern Indiana. Bennett felt that the fun of being a Girl Scout should continue for college-aged young women. Many agreed. Some joined to relive youthful memories, others joined because they missed the opportunity as a child.

Dr. Melissa Stacer, faculty advisor, says there are two pathways for members. One is simply being a part of the Girl Scout experience: camping,learning new skills and socializing with other members. The second pathway allows members to work with the younger troops and help them with community events and mentorship. Sara Hickman, president of troop #795, says the experience has been a great way to build community connections. "It's good to network because we are around members of the community and build networking skills that can be helpful after college." The USI troop also has helped maintain the beauty of the campus by maintaining the rain garden at Grimes Haus.

Yvonne Beavin, faculty advisor, serves as a liaison between the local troops and the collegiate scouts. "I've enjoyed watching this group form and become a thriving organization on campus," said Beavin. "I've watched leaders emerge and take responsibility for events." Beavin also is known as "the cookie lady" during cookie fundraisers. "We store all the cookies in my file room. It's a wonderful smelling room for about five weeks," she said.

Cookie prices are $4 per box and can be purchased on the following dates in these locations:

• February 11 and 12: Education Center, first floor, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• February 17 and 19: Redwood Lounge, the link between the Wright Administration Building and the Science Center, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• February 25 and 26 - Education Center, first floor, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• March 3 and 5 - University Center Mall (weather permitting) 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

For more information about volunteering, joining the troop or for general questions, contact Melissa Stacer at 812-465-7089 or mjstacer@usi.edu or Yvonne Beavin at 812-465-1151 or yjbeavin@usi.edu.