New Paper Scientist Patch Program Developed

Click here for a full presentation on the Paper Scientist Patch requirements

Paper is a part of everyone’s life – no matter where in the world they live! It’s an important, integral part of our everyday lives. Plus, it is totally renewable and recyclable, making it one of the most sustainable products on the market today.

Given the importance of paper, TAPPI’s Women in Industry (WIN) Division, in conjunction with the Girl Scouts of Maine, recently created a new patch program – Paper Scientist – that can be earned by Girl Scouts everywhere who are Juniors, Cadettes, Seniors or Ambassadors.

To earn their patch, Girl Scouts must take part in a series of activities that take them on a journey from the forest to many areas around their town or city that use paper and wood products. Participating Girl Scouts must complete at least two activities at each stop and also complete at least two activities from the “Take Action” section of the patch program. Please scroll down for details or print out the pdf available for download on this page for download.

In announcing the new patch, Beth Cormier, Vice President, R&D and Sustainability for Sappi North America, and a member of TAPPI’s Women in Industry (WIN) Division, noted, “Paper science is a fascinating and rewarding field. Because paper is such an integral product, it’s important for people to understand what an amazing renewable material it is and the exciting career paths it offers women and men.” A long-time industry professional, Ms. Cormier, along with Carrie Enos, University of Maine Pulp and Paper Foundation President, helped spearhead the effort to create the new patch as a way to interest young women and girls in an exciting and rewarding career path. Careers range from chemical engineers, chemists and biochemists to quality control engineers, environmental engineers and forestry technicians. 

Samantha Lott Hale, Program Director and Regional Office Supervisor, Girl Scouts of Maine, also praised the new patch program saying, “With the positive experiences that girls had at the in-person Paper Scientist  EXPOs in 2018 and 2019, we are excited to add a virtual option for completing the Paper Scientist patch program. The virtual scavenger hunt includes all the links and instructions so Girl Scouts anywhere can learn about, reflect upon, and take action on paper, the environment, and sustainability. The virtual assets developed and curated by Sappi and TAPPI highlight the interesting science behind paper making, the environment, promote action, and give Girl Scouts the chance to explore STEM career options.”