GSCCC Board of Directors Annual Meeting
The Annual Meeting of the GSCCC Board of Directors was held on Thursday, September 21 at A Place for Girls. Before the business meeting and board elections, members had an opportunity to have a bit of fun! To support GSCCC’s Spread Kindness program, members gave a hand to a few service projects by helping pack badge-in-a-box kits for the Community Troop team, and spreading peanut butter on dog biscuits that were later delivered to an area animal shelter. There were outdoor activities available as well. Senior Director of Business Operations Chris Ramos-Smith led the group in archery, and Property Director Jody Kaurup did a guided tour of The Outback, our headquarters’ nature area.
The business meeting included a 2022-23 annual report by CEO Tracy Keller. She was pleased to report that GSCCC had met many goals, including in the areas of fundraising, product program, and adult membership. The CEO’s report was followed by a National Delegate report out presented by National Delegates Maureen K., a Girl Scout Ambassador, and Brittany Orosco, a volunteer from North Carolina. They reviewed the proposals that were voted on at the National Council Session and shared some of the extraordinary experiences Council Delegates were able to have at the convention and at the national event for girls, Phenom, that followed the convention.
Outgoing Board Chair Marisa Porto thanked each board member for their service and highlighted work done by committees that helped advance the Council. “ I want to thank my fellow board members who dedicated time and provided foresight, oversight, and insight to the council, so our Girl Scouts can take their place boldly in today’s world,” Marisa said. “Together, we have been the leaders, champions, and advocates of our powerful mission. We have centered equity and the advancement of Girl Scouts in every decision we made. I thank all of you for sharing your expertise and knowledge to support our mission.”
In an emotional farewell and thanks to the Board, Marisa officially handed the gavel to incoming Board Chair Carolyn Pittman, who has served as Vice Chair over the last two years. As part of her acceptance message, Carolyn thanked Marisa for her years of service on the Board, especially the leadership she gave as Board Chair.
“We owe a debt of gratitude to Marisa for her leadership in this endeavor, and for her guidance during a transitional time as we resurfaced from a pandemic,” Carolyn said. “Her steadfast leadership also helped us tackle unexpected issues. From ongoing supply chain interruptions during the cookie program to urgent property challenges, Marisa guided us into safe waters. As the saying goes, anyone can steer the ship, but it takes a leader to chart the course. We are so appreciative that she shared with us the skills that she honed as a professional journalist and activist for equality and fairness. To thank her, we are establishing an empowerment reading nook at the Virginia Enmeier Program Center at Camp Skimino in her honor. It will be a special space for our girls to use their imaginations as they read inspiring books that open doors to girl empowerment. Marisa, we couldn’t think of a more perfect way to represent your legacy to the Council.”
Carolyn, who has served on the board since 2015, starting in the role as Treasurer, is looking forward to her position as Board Chair. Addressing board members, she said,” Together, we will embrace a proactive approach to supporting our girls, checking the pulse of our organization often to remain relevant. We will form a strategy around membership that takes this Council’s assets and resources into consideration. My goal is to strengthen and build relationships within this Board so we can harness each and every person's talents and be the most effective in our roles.”
In addition to the election of a new Board Chair, the Board also welcomed Lu Ann Klevecz as Vice Chair. Luis Estrada will remain as Board Treasurer. Colleen Mollison was also welcomed as a new Board Member at-Large who will serve for two years. Meet the GSCCC Board for 2023-24, read their bios, and learn more about Girl Scouts governance.
