Alum Spotlight: Sarah Linden

Sail Nauticus Manager Sarah Linden, a former GSCCC Girl Scout who earned her Gold Award now manages Sail Nauticus- a community sailing center that provides after-school programming to Norfolk Public School students as well as a membership program to teach people how to sail and increase access to the area’s maritime resources. In her role, Sarah manages a fleet of boats including a 120-foot tall ship! She joined Girl Scouts in elementary school as a Brownie and continued through her senior year of high school! She grew up outside of Washington, D.C. as part of the Nation’s Capital Council and later moved to the Colonial Coast area.

Sarah went on to earn her Gold Award as a Girl Scout Ambassador by taking action to tackle an issue dear to her community.

“My Gold Award project focused on increasing awareness of the dangers of drunk driving,” Sarah said.  “During my sophomore year of high school, a dear friend’s brother was killed in an accident so, driver’s safety was close to my heart.” 

Sarah's project, completed in 2006, consisted of organizing a school assembly with firefighters, EMTs, and nurses to discuss responses and solutions to the issue. She also partnered with MADD, Mothers Against Drunk Driving, and created an anti-drunk driving PSA which was broadcast throughout her high school the week prior to prom.

 She is a Girl Scout for life and has continued to stay involved as an adult.

“Over the years, I have remained engaged with many of the women who were in my troop—even though we graduated in 2006,” she said. “A few years ago, several of us got to attend the GSCCC “Women’s Wellness Weekend” and had an incredible time. I advocate for Girl Scouts in the community. And, of course, I still enjoy purchasing, and nibbling on, Girl Scout cookies.”

 Sarah said sailing has been a passion of hers as long as Girl Scouts and she is excited to share her experience and the thrills of sailing with girls of all ages. 

“Both are profound platforms for building leadership skills, understanding the importance of teamwork, and creating life-long friendships. We'd love to work with your troop to build their confidence and expand their horizons.”

You can find out more about Sail Nauticus and how to get involved at www.SailNauticus.org.