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GSME Attends 56th National Council Session
ORLANDO, FL—Girl Scouts and volunteers from across the country made their way to Lake Buena Vista, Florida this July for the 2023 National Girl Scout Convention. This epic celebration is an opportunity for Girl Scouts from all different backgrounds to make new connections, try new things, and share their experiences. The five-day convention consists of two main events: the 56th National Council Session and Phenom By Girl Scouts.
This year, several Girl Scouts, delegates, and volunteers represented Maine at the exciting multi-day affair. With this being the first in-person national convention since COVID-19 brought things online, this year’s celebration was extra special.
During the council session, Girl Scout delegates discussed, debated, elected, and voted on relevant issues and topics that impact them directly. Phenom on the other hand focused on fun. Participants explored more hands-on workshops, Highest Awards ceremonies, collaborative art projects, and so much more!
Jill Bouchard, a troop leader from Litchfield, Maine who traveled to Florida with Girl Scout delegates, Charlena and Kayleigh, shared some of her positive experiences at the convention.
“Day one began with most amazing opening ceremony and presentation of flags, it was quite emotional,” says Jill.
According to Jill, business and parliamentary procedure was on the agenda for the first couple of days: “Two proposals were discussed and voted on during the first day. It was great to see that they included girls as chairs for each moment of business, it was truly girl-led […] we heard very strong agreements and speeches from some courageous girls.”
Throughout the whole experience, attendees got to make tons of fascinating introductions: Girl Scouts from other councils, Disney characters, and even the GSUSA CEO, Bonnie Barczykowski!
Of course, a trip to Florida would be incomplete without a stopover in Disney World. Once business was taken care of on day two, Charlena, Kayleigh, and Jill braved the 96-degree temps to explore Magic Kingdom.
Overall, Jill says that attending the 2023 National Girl Scout Convention was the opportunity of a lifetime that has created memories she’ll never forget.
“I feel blessed to have been able to go and cannot wait to go again. Thank you GSME for a phenomenal experience,” says Jill.
Check out GSUSA's blog post to see more moments from Phenom By Girl Scouts!
