2003 Academy for Girls Photo Scrapbook

The Academy entered its ninth year in the fall of 2002 with 25 girls.  For the education component, in response to the stock market’s recent tribulations and the abiding national crisis of personal bankruptcy and consumer debt, the core curriculum focused on financial literacy as a step to ensuring economic stability by helping students grow into adulthood prepared to build solid, enduring financial lives.  Sessions were held the third Saturday of each month at Arlington High School.  Led by Program Vice President Dee Dee Strum, the classes included modules on “Introduction to the World of Banking,” “Creditworthiness:  What Is It and Why Do You Need to Value It”, “Introduction to Entrepreneurship,” “Personal Budgeting,” and “Putting It All Together,” supplemented by practical exercises.  The Academy also focused on prevention programs for smoking, substance abuse and HIV/AIDS prevention.

While Financial Literacy served as the educational component for this year’s Academy, the second component’s objective was to expose the girls to cultural and informational opportunities.  This year the girls had an evening out and dinner at Bonefish Grill, a black-owned up-scale restaurant where they learned about etiquette and navigating a menu.  They also chatted with the owner about what it takes to become an entrepreneur in the restaurant business.  They then proceeded to the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s Celebration of Black History.  They also participated in a youth conference in Nashville, Indiana, on HIV/AIDS prevention, went on a Black College Tour, attended the Easter Passion Play “Upon This Rock,” staffed the Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Education booth at Indiana Black Expo, and enjoyed an end-of-year evaluation and planning retreat.  To add an international flavor, the girls were invited to Afternoon Tea at the Canterbury Hotel where they learned about British customs.


In the coming year, the Coalition will further expand the program with the aid of Hoosier Capial Girl Scouts and their Studio 2-B Program