By University Communications
Thursday, 12 20 2018

• Sponsorship Introduces One-of-a-Kind “Embracing Patriotism” Patch
• Girl Scouts Earn “Embracing Patriotism” Patch by Completing Special Curriculum

SAN ANTONIO — Texas A&M University-San Antonio (A&M-SA) recently became Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas’ (GSSWT) newest and only its seventh Trefoil sponsor, entering a collaboration intended to inspire girls to complete school, pursue higher education and become productive members of society.

Through a memorandum of understanding, the two organizations will support a program initiative that focuses on the arts, environmental awareness, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, STEM, healthy living, community engagement and citizenship. A&M-SA’s sponsorship supports the citizenship component the initiative. As part of the Trefoil sponsorship, A&M-SA has developed an Embracing Patriotism patch, which can be acquired by Girl Scouts who complete a specially developed curriculum. The curriculum includes topics on commitment, respect, honor, courage and excellence.

“The Embracing Patriotism patch is in keeping with the University’s Military Embracing^TM identity,” A&M-San Antonio President Cynthia Teniente-Matson said. “By completing the curriculum and earning this patch, young girls will learn to appreciate the city’s long military history and develop a strong commitment to those who serve our country and protect our freedoms.”

Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas’ Chief Executive Officer Maj. Gen. Angie Salinas (Ret) said, “As a veteran, I can appreciate how this newest initiative with Texas A&M-San Antonio teaches our girls the core values of education and patriotism. The Embracing Patriotism patch initiative makes it possible for Girl Scouts to emphasize our traditions of honoring the American flag and respect the selfless service and sacrifices of all veterans and our women and men on active duty. Today’s girls are our next generation of leaders and Texas A&M-San Antonio is leading the way by investing in programs to help them reach their full potential as educated and patriotic citizens.”

By supporting youth through collaboration with GSSWT, Teniente-Matson explained, A&M-SA not only makes an investment in the future, but also strengthens its commitment to the communities on San Antonio’s south side. “Ultimately, our shared goal is inspire our young people to stay in school, pursue higher education and become responsible, contributing members of society,” she said.

About Texas A&M University-San Antonio

Established as a standalone university in 2009, Texas A&M University-San Antonio (A&M-SA) is a comprehensive four-year public university that reflects the culturally diverse, heritage-rich community it serves. Situated on nearly 700 acres in South San Antonio, A&M-SA is a Military Embracing^TM institution offering more than 40 undergraduate programs to 6,600 students. Visit tamusa.edu for more information.

About Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas (GSSWT)

Powered by more than 5,000 adult volunteers, Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas serves nearly 15,000 girls in its 21-county jurisdiction. Girl Scouting helps girls in grades K–12 practice leadership with grit like a go-getter, problem solve like an innovator, embrace new like a risk-taker and show empathy like a leader. Volunteers are needed to prepare girls to practice a lifetime of leadership because we know that girls built of courage, confidence and character make the world a better place. Join. Volunteer. Change the world. For more information, visit girlscouts-swtx.org.