Manatee County resident and Braden River High School student Grace Townsend earned Girl Scouting’s highest honor – the Gold Award – with her project titled, Changing Tides.

Worried that children were not learning enough about the global marine environment, Townsend took matters into her own hands. She ran a class for both children and their parents to learn about what they can do to make sure the next generation has a cleaner earth with healthier marine wildlife. Townsend also wrote a children’s book titled A Change in Tides, which describes the ocean’s food web, types of underwater creatures, and how humans can make a positive difference.

“My leadership skills have grown vastly as a result of this project, because it has inspired me to develop myself more through others,” reflected Townsend. “Every good leader needs a circle of support, and I understand that now.”

The Girl Scout Gold Award, open to high school Girl Scouts, recognizes girls who demonstrate extraordinary leadership through take-action projects with sustainable impact in their communities. The Gold Award is so prestigious that some universities and colleges offer scholarships unique to Gold Award Girl Scouts, and girls who enlist in the U.S. Armed Forces may receive advanced rank in recognition of their achievements.

Congratulations, Grace!