Many faculty in Women's Studies work closely with girls lives in research and service projects ranging from "College Bound Sisters" started by WMS faculty in the School of Nursing to Kathy Jamieson's work with Hispanic girls as part of her research in Exercise and Sport Science.

     Two events highlighted last year's Initiative. The Friends of Women's Studies sponsored a luncheon forum on November 2, "Meeting the Needs of Tomorrow's Women: The Future for Girls in Triad," which focused on a community discussion of the needs of girls and young women in our area. A second event, "Girls' Real Lives," a community-based conference and workshop, took place on  February 1-2, 2002. 

     Girls' Real Lives included a girls' art exhibit and other programs organized by girls as well as more traditional panel discussions and presentations. Keynote speakers were Peggy Orenstein and Jane Wagner.

     The Initiative for Girls began in the Fall of 2000 with a workshop offered in conjunction with the Tarheel Triad Girl Scout Council. "Finding Our Places" involved high school students in an afternoon of workshops focused on speaking out, self-expression, physical self-awareness and team building. Other projects of the Initiative include "Transitions," a workshop at Grimsley High School, and "Workshops for Wild Women."