“We told them that a girl’s STEM identity is formed by the third grade and their confidence peaks by the fifth grade, and that’s important because we need to get girls into STEM experiences and in-demand experiences early and often.” – Tammy Wharton, President and CEO of Girl Scouts of Ohio’s Heartland

A closer look at the impact of the Girl Scouts’ Dream Big program. It’s importance for mentorship and wellness for young girls.

When we think of Girl Scouts, images of badges and cookies often come to mind. However, the organization’s commitment to empowering young women extends far beyond these traditions. Through their groundbreaking Dream Big program and the establishment of the STEM Leadership Center, Girl Scouts of Ohio’s Heartland is shaping a future where girls are at the forefront of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers.

Dream Big: A Transformational Initiative

The Dream Big program is a $16 million investment fostering STEM education opportunities for Central Ohio’s youth. What began as a pledge to infuse 2,500,000 girls into the STEM pipeline by 2025 has blossomed into a concrete reality with the opening of the STEM Leadership Center at Camp Ken Jockety.

Situated on a sprawling 220-acre campus, the center is an immersive STEM environment, encouraging experiential learning. From water quality testing to rocketry, and even maple syrup science, the center provides a hands-on approach to learning, illustrating that science is all around us.

“We’re not just inviting schools to use our resources; we’re creating a partnership to foster learning outside the typical classroom setting,” Tammy Wharton.

Addressing Wellness and Community Support

Integral to the discussion about STEM education is the wellness of the girls themselves. The Girl Scouts’ recent report, “Ohio State of the Girl,” highlights the sad reality many young women face today. These include issues like cyberbullying, unrealistic body image standards, and academic pressure. The numbers are staggering. 56% of Ohio girls in grades nine through twelve have reported feelings of sadness or hopelessness.

However, data is not destiny. The report doesn’t just present challenges—it offers actionable solutions for teachers, parents, and caregivers. Whether it’s limiting screen time or fostering supportive social connections, the Girl Scouts are providing environments where girls can build confidence and resilience.

The Role of Mentorship

Mentorship plays a crucial role in addressing these societal issues. Encouraging women to become mentors is an invaluable way to foster the next generation of female leaders in STEM. Whether it’s volunteering as troop leaders, sharing expertise at events, or supporting local initiatives, mentorship helps girls see it to be it.

For women currently in STEM fields—or any career where they are thriving—joining programs like the Girl Scouts can provide young girls with role models who reflect the limitless possibilities of their futures. This visibility is vital not only for inspiring specific career paths but for building self-confidence and combatting bullying and body image issues.

Looking Forward

The future looks promising as more girls are ready to embrace careers that once seemed out of reach. The STEM Leadership Center at Camp Ken Jockety isn’t just a facility; it’s a beacon of opportunity and empowerment. By exposing girls to possible careers in construction, engineering, and technology early in their lives, the Girl Scouts are not just dreaming big—they’re doing big.

“A confident person is less likely to be bullied,” Wharton notes. “And you gain that confidence through learning new skills, through experiences that teach resilience.”

As we look forward, it’s clear that initiatives like Dream Big aren’t just transforming STEM education for girls. They’re reshaping the landscape of our entire community. This ensures that young women are not just part of the conversation but leading it. Let’s continue this journey together. Let’s empower girls to build a future where they can not only dream but also achieve all their big dreams.

For more information on these initiatives, community members and educators should visit the Girl Scouts’ website. And look into resources like the “Ohio State of the Girl” report Learn how you can contribute to this growing movement. Together, we can ensure that all girls have the support they need to succeed in STEM and beyond.

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Recorded in Studio C at 511 Studios. A production of Circle 270 Media® Podcast Consultants.

Copyright 2025 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson