2023- Celebrate Changemakers Program Guide by Girl Scouts River Valleys

Thursday, September 14, 2023

The Depot – Minneapolis

A gala event benefiting Girl Scouts of Minnesota and Wisconsin River Valleys

Zhara Christopher Changemaker Honoree Natalie Berg Changemaker Honoree

A Letter from the CEO

Thank you for joining us tonight for Celebrate Changemakers. Your unwavering support and dedication to the mission of Girl Scouts River Valleys means the world to us.

Tonight’s theme, Be the Change, embodies the essence of Girl Scouting. We are all changemakers, from the smallest acts of kindness to big choices that touch the lives of those around us. Girl Scouts understand that we all have the power to shape a better world. That our words and actions matter. That lifting each other up, working together, and advocating for what we believe in is the key to driving positive change.

Tonight isn’t just a celebration; it’s a tribute to the exceptional leadership that Girl Scouts demonstrate in their communities every day. It’s a moment to reflect on the life-changing power of our mission— the impact it has on Girl Scouts, on their families, and on their communities. It’s a chance to uplift and empower the next generation of Girl Scouts to know their worth, lead in their world, and seize the bright future ahead of them. And, to make that future possible for every girl in every community.

We rely on the support of generous donors, partners, and friends to fund this critical work. Now, more than ever, the world needs changemakers like Girl Scouts. You have the power to make a tangible difference.

So, let’s embrace the inspiration tonight offers. Let’s applaud our changemaker honorees and reaffirm our commitment to shaping a brighter future.

Together, we can be the change we wish to see in the world.

Program

Welcome – Lilia Civettini, Girl Scouts River Valleys Board Member, and Jane Canney, Board Chair

Introduction – Sheletta Brundidge, Emcee of the Evening

Dinner Break

Girl Scout Promise and Law – Featuring Local Girl Scouts River Valleys Members

Honoring our 2023 Changemakers – Natalie Berg and Zhara Christopher

Live Auction – Kristine Fladeboe Dunnick of Fladeboe Advancement

Mission Moment – Featuring Girl Scouts River Valleys, and Girl Scout Alums Pearl Mitchell-Jackson and Dr. Jacola Roman

Fund-A-Need Paddle Raise

Keynote – Marisa C. Williams, CEO of Girl Scouts River Valleys

Closing

With gratitude,

Marisa C. Williams CEO, Girl Scouts River Valleys

A special thank you to our non-profit partner, Bluebirds & Blooms. All florals at this event will be repurposed by the organization to provide floral arrangements for those living with memory loss or long-term illness. Please do not take the floral arrangements so we can pass on the inspiration of Girl Scouts to our community members.

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Executive Leadership Committee

Kelly Bloch Regional Vice President Xcel Energy

Tina Charpentier

Executive Vice President Client Experience

Padilla

Keisha Houston

Director, Global Surgical Innovations Commercial Marketing Medtronic Amy Kroll Principal, Risk & Financial Advisory Deloitte

Keynote Speaker

Marisa

CEO

Guest Speaker Bios

Norma Porter Director of Change Management Elevance Health Deb Rohloff Vice President of Client and Community Relations PNC Bank Marisa C. Williams Chief Executive Officer Girl Scouts River Valleys

Judy Wright BTM Global Chief Financial Officer

Sheletta Brundidge

Celebrate Changemakers Emcee

Sheletta Brundidge is the founder of an online podcasting company that provides culturally competent commercial production. She is also an Emmy award-winning comedian, radio host, television anchor and newspaper columnist. With her podcast shows, social activism, and best-selling children’s books that address autism, Sheletta is living up to her reputation as a changemaker.

Kristine Fladeboe Dunnick Benefit Auctioneer Specialist & Partner at Fladeboe Advancement

C. Williams Girl Scouts River Valleys

Marisa Williams is a bold disruptor dedicated to creating opportunities for folks on the margins, particularly women and children. Marisa leads by keeping people at the heart of everything she does. After a decade in financial services, she pivoted to the nonprofit world to lead at the intersection of her purpose and passions. She is a dedicated youth advocate who has received many accolades, including being honored as a Woman of Distinction by Girl Scouts Western Pennsylvania. Noting the unique challenges of the nonprofit sector, Marisa is proud to lead with grit and integrity to support the health and wellness, education, entrepreneurship, life skills, and self-love of girls across River Valleys.

Kristine Fladeboe Dunnick became a professional auctioneer in 1995. Her love for the auction business started nearly twenty years earlier as she listened to her father sell everything from cattle to collectibles to real estate. After Kristine graduated from the University of St. Thomas with a degree in business and communications, she quickly became part of the family business. In July 2010, Kristine was named International Auctioneer Champion—the top female auctioneer in the United States—by the National Auctioneers Association. Kristine is a wife and mom, loves the outdoors, and has conducted auctions from Minnesota to Hong Kong. Kristine’s passion is to make a difference in the lives of others through auctioneering and motivational speaking.

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Thank You to our Sponsors and Partners

Menu Salad

Farmer’s Market Salad

Entrée

Chicken Harissa with Minnesota wild rice and honey

roasted carrots

*vegan option available

Dessert

Girl Scout Cookie inspired dessert

Changemaker Honorees

Zhara Christopher

First Year

Howard University

Girl Scout Alum

Pronouns: She/Her

Passionate about:

Mental health awareness and healthcare accessibility in BIPOC communities.

"Girl Scouts has given me the skills to take a step back and examine the different steps I need to take to fix situations. I’m able to make sure that the actions I take are in the best interest of the people they affect. I have gained so many skills and connections through Girl Scouts, this is a great place for girls."

Mission Moment and Fund-a-Need

Dr. Jacola Roman

PhD – Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology

Girl Scouts River Valleys Alum and Gold Award Girl Scout

Jacola “Colie” Roman, PhD, credits her career track to what she learned in Girl Scouts. Colie is a Technologist at

NASA – Jet Propulsion Laboratory where she focuses on the scientific data linked to weather and climate.

Natalie Berg Senior

Coon Rapids Senior High School

Girl Scout Member

Pronouns: She/Her

Passionate about:

Children’s literacy

“Girl Scouts taught me to identify an issue and how to take steps to be a changemaker. Many of the take action projects and Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards teach us to make our community a better place by leading the change and have taught me skills I will be using for life.”

Pearl Mitchell-Jackson

Retired Social Worker

Legacy St. Croix Valley Girl Scout Alum and Social Activist

Pearl Mitchell-Jackson began her commitment to inclusiveness and racial understanding when she became the first black girl to join a Girl Scout troop when she was in elementary school. Since the day she joined, she has continued her involvement with Girl Scouts, where she worked to promote international exchange programs that bring cultures and communities together. In 2012 she was honored as a Community Champion by Girl Scouts River Valleys.

In addition to her volunteerism with Girl Scouts, she continues to be active in the community. She was the first female president of the Council of International Programs and was an active Board member for the Minnesota Museum of Art, Minnesota International Center, Macalester College World Press Institute, and the Rainbow Club. In 2022, the History Theater play “Not for Sale” portrayed her work as an activist, as it shared the story of a local Realtor who was forced out of the business in the 1960s by a racist backlash when he sold homes in white suburban neighborhoods.

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Changemaker Champions

Thank you to the following Changemaker Champions. These individuals made generous gifts of $1,000 or more prior to the event and are honoring their own personal Changemakers this evening.

Bobbi Allan

Susan Boren

Jane W. Canney

Belinda Cordina

Nancy Dana

Jean Dehning

Gloria Gebhard

Sharonne Hayes

Keisha Houston

Nancy Klemek

Erica Koenig

Lynn Krapf

Amy and Ryan Kroll

Sarah Kuenle

Vicky Lettmann

Melissa Meyers

Wenda and Cornell Moore

Juliann Nelson-Duffy

Jean O. Granger

Marnie Overman

Valerie and David Pace

Norma and David Porter

Jeannine Rivet

Tamera Robinson

Deb Rohloff

Sylvia and George Roman

Lee Roper-Batker

Luis and Inell Rosario

Sharon Ryan

April Sutor and Peg Winters

Patty Toenies

Deb Wilkinson

Mary and Bill Zrust

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securian.com Securian Financial is the marketing name for Securian Financial Group, Inc., and its subsidiaries. F95261 Rev 4-2022 DOFU 10-2020 1346559 Together, we can empower communities to achieve secure tomorrows. INSURANCE INVESTMENTS RETIREMENT Invest in Girls, Change the World Integris is a proud supporter of the Girl Scouts Congratulations 2023 Changemakers Honorees

Scouts.

Girl

As a proud sustaining partner of Girl Scouts River Valleys, Cub congratulates the 2023 Changemaker award honorees!

Media Partner

Live Auction Preview

VIP Aladdin Experience

• Tuesday, December 5, 2023 at the Orpheum Theatre

• A $250 gift card to Capital Grille

• 6 tickets to the show including complimentary drink tickets and access to the private lounge before the show and during intermission

Discover a whole new world at the Orpheum Theater with the production of Disney’s Aladdin, the hit Broadway musical.

From the producer of The Lion King comes the timeless story of Aladdin, a thrilling new production filled with unforgettable beauty, magic, comedy and breathtaking spectacle. It’s an extraordinary theatrical event where one lamp and three wishes create infinite possibilities.

As the winner of this package, you’ll start off your adventure with a delicious meal at Capital Grille. Then, brace yourselves for the ultimate magic carpet ride with a VIP Ticket Package that includes tickets to the show, complimentary Orpheum Theatre drink tickets, and access to the private PNC lounge before the show and during intermission.

Donated by: Clear Channel Outdoor and Dan Ballard, Board of Directors

Live Auction Preview

VIP MN United Experience

• Saturday, October 7, 2023 at Allianz Field in St. Paul

• 4-person private loge box seats including all-inclusive food and beverage and a parking pass with access to the Premium entrance

No red cards here! You’ll score a goal with this package as you wow your family and friends and cheer on our beloved Minnesota United as they take on the L.A. Galaxy at Allianz Field. Sit back and watch the match in luxury thanks to the extraordinary generosity of PNC Financial Services. This package comes with a 4-person private loge box including food and beverages for you and your guests, plus a parking pass to access the premium stadium entrance.

Donated by: PNC Bank

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Live Auction Preview

Private Cooking Workshop for 10 with Chelle’s Kitchen & SHUGA FOOT Wine Bar

Have you ever wanted to learn how to make homemade pasta, beignets, or amazing chimichurri? How does a night in Italy, New Orleans, or a tour of Latin America sound with all your favorite foods and without the hassle of TSA and checking bags? This is a one-of-a-kind experience for you and 9 of your friends for a personalized cooking workshop with Chef Lachelle. And to add that extra touch, our wine expert, Melinda Lewis of SHUGA FOOT Wine Bar, will select wine that will expertly pair with your personally curated menu. So, rally your friends, roll up your sleeves, put on that apron, pop that cork and get ready for your taste buds to travel without needing a passport. Mangia Bene! (Eat well!)

Date to be mutually agreed upon by auction winner and Chef. Must be redeemed by September 30, 2024.

Donated by: Chef LaChelle Cunningham, Melinda Lewis of SHUGA FOOT Wine Bar, and Friends of Girl Scouts

Live Auction Preview

7-night Stay in Timeless Tuscany for 8

Embark on an enchanting Tuscan journey with a 7-night retreat in one of five age-old villas nestled in the Cortona hills. Immerse yourself in the region’s culinary delights through private winery tours, tastings, and cooking classes designed for you and your guests. Uncover the charm of medieval towns and renowned artworks with a personalized itinerary designed by your expert travel guides. While you are there, be sure to explore the region of nearby Cortona, Montepulciano, and Arezzo. Must be redeemed by September 14, 2024.

Donated by: Friends of Girl Scouts

A Sweet Suite Experience for 16 with the Jonas Brothers

Do you “Live to Party” like the Jonas Brothers? Grab 15 members of your squad and head over to the Xcel Energy Center on November 19 to “Celebrate.” Enjoy a VIP experience where you and your friends will dance the night away in a suite reminiscing while they play from their five-album catalog. This package features 16 tickets to a suite, 2 parking passes and $500 towards food and beverage.

Donated by: Securian Financial Group, Inc. and Friends of Girl Scouts

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Live Auction Preview

3-night Great Smokies Glamping for 2

Reconnect with nature in a 3-night luxury glamping escapade for two amidst the stunning Great Smoky Mountains. Explore scenic trails, relish outdoor dining, and stargaze from your private deck in the midst of lush woodlands. Enjoy modern comforts like hot showers, flushing toilets, and cozy beds. Revitalize each day with complimentary yoga, indulge in locally sourced meals, and end your evenings with campfires and s’mores. Venture into the wonders of the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Gatlinburg. This remarkable experience invites you to rediscover the essence of nature’s beauty in unparalleled comfort.

Must be redeemed by September 14, 2024

Donated by: Friends of Girl Scouts

Girl Scouts River Valleys Board of Directors

Executive Officers

Jane Canney, Chair Principal, Canney and Associates

Marnie Overman, First Vice-Chair

Director, Employee Benefits Solutions, Securian Financial

Melissa Meyers, Second Vice-Chair Business Manager, Andersen Corporation

Alexandra Kotze Treasurer Chief Financial Officer, Ramsey County

Mai Nhia Xiong-Chan, Secretary Vice President of Enrollment, University of Portland

Directors-at-Large

Mariela Ampuero

Director, Human Resources and Compensation, Regis Corporation

Daniel Ballard Branch President Clear Channel Outdoor

Kate Bante Senior Strategy Director Ovative Group

Christine Battist Financial Executive & Community Volunteer

Lilia Civettini High School Student & Ambassador Girl Scout

Nneka Constantino

Sr. Financial Advisor Merrill Lynch

Belinda Cordina Supply Chain Operations Director Ecolab

Erik Drange Asst. General Counsel 3M

Beth Duyvejonck Regional Vice President Opus Design Build, L.L.C

Gracie George Risk & Compliance Consultant Protiviti

Keisha Houston

Director, Global Surgical Innovations Commercial Marketing Medtronic

Margaret Kaiser Attorney Shareholder Willow River Law LLC

Nancy Klemek Community Volunteer

Erica Koenig

Chief HR Officer & Sr. Vice President SPS Commerce

Lisa Lynch Strategist Lynch Strategies

Susana Rosas Founder Suyana Designs

Maria Sarabia Asst. Commissioner MN Dept. of Health

Melanie Larsen Sinouthasy Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Sr. Manager Tennant Company

Patty Toenies Sr. Consultant, Transmission Policy & Compliance Xcel Energy

Kaade Wallace Public Policy Manager Hennepin County

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20 The Girl Scout Mission Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place. 800-845-0787 GirlScoutsRV.org @GirlScoutsRV Girl Scouts River Valleys' work is supported by 7,000 volunteers who deliver the Girl Scout Leadership Experience to nearly 18,000 girls in southern Minnesota, western Wisconsin, and one county in Iowa. Checks can be mailed to: Girl Scouts River Valleys St. Paul Service Center 400 Robert Street South, St. Paul, MN 55107