Sherman, Texas -- Austin College is excited to announce a collaborative initiative with Girl Scouts of the USA, inspired by a unique connection between 2023 Posey Leadership Awardee Sylvia Acevedo, former CEO of Girl Scouts. This initiative has grown into an enriching summer camp program that will be held at Austin College from June 17 – June 21, 2025, with the theme of “Green & Serene: Wellness Adventure for a Better Place.”
The week-long camp offers Girl Scouts in grades 8 through 12 an immersive glimpse into college life. Participants will attend three academic classes per day, receive student ID cards, stay overnight in the residence halls, and experience a college campus environment firsthand. Along with the college student experience, the program will also include field trips, activities in personal wellness, and career exploration. Courses will be led by nine dedicated Austin College faculty members—nearly 10% of the College’s full-time faculty—demonstrating Austin College’s deep commitment to outreach and education.
"This is such a great opportunity," said Dr. Renee Countryman, Professor of Psychology and the faculty lead for the program. "For people who may be trying to get their kids inspired in some way, this might really connect with them."
Classes will include chemistry, creative writing, neuroscience, art & media, economics, biology, health, and psychology all through the lens of environmental wellness. In addition, there will be sessions led by faculty on topics such as college readiness and finding the right college fit.
The camp is not limited to local participants—Girl Scouts from outside of the Northeast Texas council are welcome to attend. For more information and to register for the camp, please go to the Girl Scouts website. Registration deadline is May 19.
Austin College, a private national liberal arts college located north of Dallas in Sherman, Texas, has earned a reputation for excellence in academic preparation, pre-professional foundations, committed faculty, and hands-on, adventurous learning opportunities. One of 44 schools profiled in Loren Pope’s influential book Colleges That Change Lives, Austin College boasts a welcoming community that embraces diversity and individuality, with more than 50 percent of students identifying as persons of color. The residential student body of approximately 1,300 students and an expert faculty of more than 100 educators allow an 11:1 student-faculty ratio and personalized attention. Related by covenant to the Presbyterian Church (USA), Austin College cultivates an inclusive atmosphere that supports students’ faith journeys regardless of religious tradition. The College, founded in 1849, is the oldest institution of higher education in Texas operating under original name and charter.
