MIDDLEBURY — The widely successful “Sister-to-Sister” Program is hosting its 15th summit for female-identified students in 6th, 7th and 8th grade on Saturday, Nov. 9, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Middlebury College’s Kirk Alumni Center.
“Sister-to-Sister” brings together students from Bristol, Middlebury and Vergennes with female-identified Middlebury College students. In a one-day summit and monthly follow-up events during the rest of the school year, the students try out new things outside of the classroom (a-capella singing, hip-hop dancing, yoga, journaling, etc.). “Sister-to-Sister” also focuses on discussions of such topics as body image, relationships, and identity.
A national program originally conceived by the American Association of University Women (AAUW), “Sister-to-Sister” works to develop strategies that support female-identified students. The program recognizes that in addition to teachers and textbooks, achievement is affected by what happens in the hallways, between classes, and outside of school.  “Sister-to-Sister” strives to make a positive difference by giving a voice to the needs and interests of 6th, 7th and 8th graders. The program provides a safe space to talk about the challenges that female-identified students face in this day and age. It enables them to develop friendships with other students, even if they don’t go to the same school.
The program is supported by roughly 100 volunteers and financial sponsors such as Chellis House, Middlebury College’s Community Engagement Center, and the local branch of AAUW.
“Sister-to-Sister allowed me to get involved in the Middlebury community by connecting me with fellow students, faculty, and staff members, volunteers and most importantly, middle schoolers,” says Grace Giles, a Middlebury College graduate, who was involved with the program for three years. “Every generation represented in our sisterhood is experiencing the environment we live in through a different lens. When we communicate our perspectives, our lives become so much richer.”
All events are free. Sister-to-Sister provides breakfast, lunch, and snacks. Please let us know of any food allergies. To register and reserve your attendance pack, please call Karin Hanta at 443-5937 or email [email protected].