Local Girl Scout's Heart Heroes Project Earns Gold Award Distinction

Samantha Sterling, a senior at Chattahoochee High School, achieved the highest distinction in Girl Scouts by raising awareness among students about heart conditions affecting children and young adults and encouraging people of all ages to become heart heroes.

Sterling was diagnosed with Wolf-Parkinson-White Syndrome (WPW) as a newborn, proving heart disease affects all ages. With research and support from teaching and healthcare professionals, Sterling developed educational materials, launched a website, and taught middle school students about heart health.

Sterling says, “Having lived with a heart condition, I wanted to offer resources and raise awareness about heart conditions in young people.” Sterling also notes, “Approximately 2,000 people under age 25 die each year of sudden cardiac arrest in the U.S. If people can be aware of the warning signs at a young age, more lives could be saved.”

Much like the Boy Scouts’ Eagle Scout honor, the Gold Award is presented to high school girls (grades 9-12) who design and carry out major Take Action projects that address important community issues. Across the country, less than six percent of Girl Scouts achieve this distinction, and each year, fewer than four percent earn it within the Greater Atlanta Council.

The Gold Award is Girl Scouts' highest honor, recognizing those who demonstrate perseverance and determination. In 2025, nearly 3,000 recipients addressed important community issues, pursued causes they care about, and realized their ability to shape the future.

Sterling is a member of Troop 14494 within Johns Creek’s Two Bridges Service Unit, where Keri Michaelis serves as troop leader. Sterling has been in Girl Scouts for 11 years.