What is Sister-to-Sister ?
A national program sponsored by the American Association of University
Women, Sister-to-Sister works to develop strategies that support young women. The program recognizes that in addition to teachers and textbooks, achievement is affected by what happens in the hallways, between classes, and even outside of school. Sister-to-Sister strives to make a positive difference by giving a voice to the needs and interests of young women. Sister-to-Sister provides a “safe space” to talk about the challenges facing young women with other area girls and college mentors. 
Sister-to-Sister brings together middle school girls from Bristol, Middlebury and Vergennes with Middlebury College student mentors. With the help of “campus supervisors,” mentors develop experiences that encourage girls to try new things outside of the classroom including such activities as art, music, dance, sign language, and yoga. Sister-to-Sister also focuses on discussions of such topics as body image, women in history, relationships, popularity, self-defense, identity and the internet, and self confidence. While specific activities vary, the foundation of the program continues to be about building trusting and supportive relationships. These experiences, both formal and informal, address not only the challenges facing young women, but also discovering and celebrating strengths, interests and achievements. Sister-to-Sister is an opportunity for area middle school girls to talk about self-esteem, their own identity, body image, peer pressure, and future aspirations with Middlebury College mentors.
View Photos from the 2006 Sister-to-Sister Summit
What’s NEW with Sister-to-Sister?
We have found from past years that the day-long “sister summit” is a great way to inspire “sisterhood,” but is often not enough time to truly challenge young women. This year, Sister-to-Sister is a year-long program that will continue to build confidence and friendships. After the summit, middle school girls will meet monthly with their college mentors in a group setting, usually focused on a planned activity (swimming, sledding, movie-nights, etc.). In these monthly meetings, girls will have the opportunity to discuss issues specific to their age group and challenges associated with middle school. The year will culminate in April with an overnight activity for mentors and sisters to reflect on each girl’s accomplishments.
So what am I signing up for?
- A daylong summit hosted by Middlebury College on November 18, 2006, full of fun workshops and discussions led by college women. A morning snack and lunch is provided.
- Monthly activities with college mentors and area middle school girls.
- A culminating overnight event in April.
To register, please contact Karin Hanta at khanta@middlebury.edu.
Fun Time at the Middlebury College pool
Friday, January 26
7:00 to 9:00 pm
Middlebury College’s Memorial Field House * -
- RSVP to Karin Hanta: khanta@middlebury.edu or 443-5937.
- Please let us know whether you need transportation.
- Meet in the main lobby of the College Memorial Field House *
- Don’t forget your bathing suit and towel!
* The Middlebury College Memorial Field House is located on Route 30, west of Middlebury. Use the Main Entrance, just to the left of the “white bubble.“