SoKY’s Choice: Local Girl Scouts honored for service, leadership at recognition ceremony

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WNKY) – Several young women from across south-central Kentucky were recognized Sunday for years of service, leadership, and personal growth through Girl Scouts.

The Older Girl Recognition Ceremony, held at the Houchens Program Center in Bowling Green, honored both Silver Award recipients and graduating high school seniors, marking major milestones within the organization.

The Silver Award, the highest honor a middle school Girl Scout can achieve, recognizes projects designed to create lasting community impact. For recipients, the recognition reflects months of dedication and hands-on work.

For graduating seniors, the ceremony serves as a capstone to a journey that, for many, began in early childhood.

“I mean, for you to meet the Girl Scout law means to just do your best, to be like a good person and to help others,” said graduating senior Jessica Sanders.

That sense of purpose is echoed by fellow senior Sarah Hurt, who said the moment is both meaningful and emotional.

“It just means a lot for me to celebrate one last time… everything’s coming to an end when it comes to Girl Scouts and all my childhood memories,” Hurt said.

Throughout their time in scouting, participants say they’ve gained practical skills and life experience that extend far beyond badges and ceremonies.

“A lot of first aid, CPR… just a lot of good skills that we will use in life,” Hurt added, noting how those lessons have influenced her plans to continue working in healthcare.

Others say the program helped them grow more confident and willing to step outside their comfort zones.

“It’s definitely helped me build confidence… and it allowed me to have opportunities that I wouldn’t have had if I didn’t join Girl Scouts,” said graduating senior Justine Hester.

Troop leader and Service Unit Manager Amber Huggins said the ceremony represents more than individual achievement—it highlights long-term commitment and growth.

“These girls have lifelong experiences, skills, lessons… friendships,” Huggins said.

As one group of Girl Scouts moves on to college and careers, leaders say the impact of their work, and the values they’ve practiced, will continue well into the future.

The ceremony brought together families, leaders, and scouts from across the region, celebrating not only accomplishments, but the enduring promise to make the world a better place.