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Celebrating the Impact of 2025 Gold Award Girl Scouts

On August 20, 2025, the Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) celebrated an extraordinary achievement as almost 3,000 Girl Scouts were recognized with the prestigious Gold Award. This award, the pinnacle of accomplishment in Girl Scouting, encourages young women to harness their passions, enhance their problem-solving skills, advocate for their beliefs, inspire others, and make impactful changes in their communities.

The Gold Award projects of the Class of 2025 exemplified leadership and innovation. These young leaders identified urgent issues within their communities and dedicated nearly 300,000 volunteer hours to develop sustainable solutions, raising over 2 million dollars to implement their initiatives. Their projects spanned a wide array of civic interests, including mental wellness, environmental sustainability, and STEM education, highlighting their commitment to addressing pressing societal needs.

Bonnie Barczykowski, the CEO of GSUSA, remarked, "The 2025 Gold Award class clearly demonstrates what it means to effect lasting change in communities. Gold Award Girl Scouts utilize the skills they've developed during their time with Girl Scouts, showing that great impact starts with individual action."

The process of earning the Gold Award is rigorous, requiring significant dedication, focus, and determination. To achieve this honor, Girl Scouts must invest over 80 hours in creating a project that tackles a cause they are passionate about, which can have national and global relevance. After identifying their cause, they research, assemble a support team of volunteers, and formulate a comprehensive plan that needs to be approved before action starts. Through the execution of their projects, the Gold Award Girl Scouts not only prove their leadership abilities but also acquire a diverse range of leadership skills including project management, problem-solving, community building, and budgeting.

Additionally, those who earn this prestigious recognition benefit from increased scholarship opportunities, enhanced networking possibilities, and eligibility for enlistment in the military at a higher rank.

This year, GSUSA proudly awarded scholarships to 110 Gold Award Girl Scouts who showcased exemplary projects nationwide. This philanthropy was made possible through generous contributions from DHL Supply Chain, the Kappa Delta Foundation, and various members of the National Board, including Robyn Ratcliffe Manzini, Aldo Manzini, Erika Rottenberg, and Diane Tipton, along with funds from GSUSA itself.

To learn about the many ways in which Girl Scouts are positively impacting our communities, visit girlscouts.org/goldawardclass. Whether you wish to get involved, volunteer, reconnect, or donate, there are numerous ways to support this vital initiative.

About Girl Scouts of the USA
Girl Scouts turn their dreams into reality and work together towards a better world. Through programs spanning the nation, Girl Scouts from all backgrounds and abilities are empowered to discover their strengths and tackle new challenges—be it climbing to the top of a tree, excelling in academics, preparing for a hike, advocating for climate justice, or making lifelong friendships. Supported by volunteers, mentors, and millions of alums, Girl Scouts lead the way as they find their voices and drive change on the issues that matter most to them.