ALUMNASPOTLIGHT
Since 1995, the Mission of American Heritage Girls has been to build women of integrity. While the AHG Program targets those in girlhood, the sincerity and faith-filled spirit that is nurtured and grown through AHG continues as girls develop and mature into women.
MEET ELIZABETH HARRIS Servant leader. Dedicated student. Faithful Daughter of the King.
“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” –Romans 5:3-5, NIV 26 | AMERICAN HERITAGE GIRLS
For AHG Alumna and Stars & Stripes Award Recipient Elizabeth Harris, dinghy sailing is an exciting combination of detailed, skillful planning and the unpredictable nature of God’s creation. With nothing but a life jacket, a small sail boat, and the power of the wind and sea, Sarah and her fellow crew members are able to traverse the open waters in what looks to be an expertly-choreographed routine. From the outside, it can look like nothing short of chaos, but for Sarah, it’s the perfect example of trust in God and the natural ability to lead. She has AHG to thank for a solid foundation of faith and leadership training. “The leadership skills I learned in AHG are invaluable to me. I learned how to develop a plan, follow it, and instruct others. I also learned improvisation, because sometimes, events do not go according to plan.” Today, Elizabeth sharpens those foundational leadership skills learned through AHG as a midshipman at the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) in Kings Point, NY. “AHG definitely helped me achieve my goal of attending a service academy. In the span of a lifetime, participation in AHG is a rather shortterm event, but the principles learned will be used for a lifetime,” said Elizabeth. Like so many American Heritage Girls, Elizabeth joined the AHG Program at the recommendation of a friend. She joined MI3130, chartered by the Bristol Road Church of Christ, during her eighth grade year as a Pioneer. Over four years in the program, Elizabeth earned badges, completed Level Awards, and even went on to earn the Stars & Stripes Award, a first for any girl in her Troop.
