While attending Science Hill High School, Alison “Ali” Pohland noticed that arts programs sometimes took a backseat to other school events. Drawing from her personal passion for the performing arts, Ali set out to highlight the school’s artistic talent and foster a better understanding of art’s value among her peers. Her project, “Arts Appreciation Week,” earned her the prestigious 2023 Girl Scout Gold Award.

Gold Award Girl Scouts are high school students who create and implement projects addressing issues they are passionate about, generating lasting change in their communities and beyond. The Gold Award represents the highest honor within the Girl Scouts organization.

Ali said, “Since I was 3 years old, I have been involved in the performing arts, whether that be ballet, band or theater. As I entered high school I participated in band and theater, fueling the love I have for these activities.” But despite her own involvement, Ali realized that many students weren’t aware or appreciative of the performing arts or other art programs available to them. Not because of disinterest, she said, but because of lack of exposure.

Ali emphasized how involvement in the performing arts can positively impact students. “Studies have shown that when one reads music, it improves brain function,” she said. “Theater performances increase confidence and public speaking skills.”

Her creation, Arts Appreciation Week, spotlighted different arts disciplines daily and wrapped up with a showcase performance from the band, chorus, orchestra and theater departments. Organizing the event, with all its moving parts, wasn’t without its challenges. Ali said, “The project took place in the school during school hours, so I had to coordinate timing and scheduling around class schedules and testing. But administration worked closely with me to figure out the schedule while staying true to the requirements and my vision of the project.

“My favorite part of working on this project was seeing the end result. I loved seeing everyone in the auditorium enjoying the performances. It was fulfilling seeing all the months of work come together.”

Through the Arts Appreciation Week project, Ali learned how to lead a team, conduct meetings and communicate with students and staff. “The project has helped me develop leadership skills as well as many other vital skills I have used so far in college,” she said.

Currently a student at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Ali is pursuing a double major in political science and economics, with a minor in Spanish. Her future plans include attending law school.

Ali also cherishes time spent with her family and friends. “Building close connections to people who enjoy my company is very important to me. Our favorite outings are catching up at local coffee and tea shops.” In her free time, she enjoys reading, hiking, camping and baking.

She relishes her years as a Girl Scout. “Some of my favorite memories from Girl Scouts were campouts,” she said. “Being with members of my troop around a campfire, swapping stories, eating s’mores and learning safe outdoor skills all at once provided very fond memories that I will hold on to for years to come.”

Congratulations, Ali! To learn more about the Girl Scouts, visit girlscoutcsa.org.