Troop 5002's Day in Court
May 22, 2024
Ten Brownies and Juniors from Troop 5002 had their day in court this spring while visiting the Portland District Court to meet a US Attorney and earn their Junior Inside Government badges.
“We thought this would be an amazing opportunity for the girls to see a woman in such a powerful position,” says Troop 5002 Leader Laura Doody-Bouwer.
Beginning their field trip at the Federal Courthouse, the troop met with US Attorney, Darcie McElwee, a Clerk of Court, Christa Berry, and the Honorable Judge, Nancy Torresen. They held a Q&A session for the girls who wanted to learn more about their everyday lives in the courthouse.
“Afterward, Judge Torresen brought us to her chambers and let us see another courtroom. After the courthouse visit, we walked to the District Attorney’s Office where Darcie gave us tour and answered any more questions the girls make have had,” says Laura.
According to co-leader, Kari Profahl, who also attended the outing, Judge Torresen had a fascinating journey towards her current position. Her path was filled with adversity and challenges that she shared with the troop. Initially wanting to be an English professor, Torresen failed several college exams needed to pursue grad school. Although she wasn’t excelling in English or literature, Torresen decided to give law school a try and found that she was much more suited to the career, ultimately pivoting her life.
“I thought she had such a powerful message for the girls to hear that you don’t have to know exactly what you want to be at this age; you can change your mind in life, find your interests, strengths, and capitalize on them,” says Kari.
See more photos here.
