USA Girl Scouts Overseas 100 @ 100 List

Honoring our members for the last 100 years.

Margaret Renwand

Margaret served as the CEO of USAGSO-NA from 2005-2010. She led the organization through serious downsizing of the U.S. military community in Europe, causing significant financial hardships for our troops and the organization. At the same time, her in-depth knowledge of our partners in the military and logistics of a cumbersome system, she adroitly managed our move from decades in Heidelberg, Germany to Livorno, Italy. At the same time, she held discussions leading to Girl Scout presence in the expanding NATO countries.

Her influence on literally thousands of girls and hundreds of adult volunteers significantly elevated our presence at a time of great upheaval for military families. Her love of Girl Scouts permeated every program from camping to Overseas Committee Chair training and international travel to annual adult training experiences across Europe. Because of her deep commitment to WAGGGS principles, she authorized the GSASO-NA attendance at the first multicultural international camporee in Turkey with 16 countries including most who had never met Americans before and who probably wouldn't again (Tajikistan, Armenia and Coptic Christians to name a few). I can think of no adult who has made a greater contribution to Girl Scouts Overseas, and certainly through her many years as a professional Girl Scout. I am deeply saddened that Margaret died in early 2023 after battling cancer for several years.

I can think of no adult who has made a greater contribution to Girl Scouts Overseas.

Chiara Gensini

Over the past three years, my daughter has been a proud member of Chiara’s troop, Girl Scout Troop 05711 in Beijing. I can confidently say that Chiara has made a remarkable impact on Girl Scouts Overseas, embodying the spirit and values of this organization. Chiara’s leadership has transformed our troop into a vibrant community where the girls are inspired to learn and grow.

Each year, under her guidance, we organize initiatives such as collecting warm clothing and toys for children in need, visiting orphanages and hosting craft events where the girls can create handmade items to donate to others. Our troop also participates in fundraising efforts, supporting various charitable causes. She fosters a spirit of adventure and exploration by organizing trips and camping events twice a year. Recently, Chiara led our troop through first aid training, equipping the girls with essential skills and certificates to help others in emergencies. A standout moment was our recent tree planting event, where we planted over 60 new trees, reinforcing our commitment to environmental stewardship.

Her positivity, energy and passion for Girl Scouts shine through in everything she does. Chiara is not just a leader- she is a cherished mentor to the girls and a trusted partner to their parents. I wholeheartedly believe that she deserves recognition among those who have significantly contributed to making Girl Scouts Overseas great over the last 100 years.

She creates an inclusive and empowering environment, where each girl feels valued and confident to express herself and take on new challenges.

Kathy Limbaugh

Kathy Limbaugh has served as a Girl Scout volunteer for many years! She was a Girl Scout as a child and a volunteer in the U.S., so, when she moved abroad with her husband, she was keen to make sure that her girls could experience the camaraderie and sisterhood of Girl Scouts. She joined the Shanghai troop as a leader and was instrumental in the OCMT and working with the girls. When she arrived in Basel, Switzerland, she contacted us straight away, and we were delighted to have someone with such a deep knowledge of USA Girl Scouts and how they operate. Kathy ran a Junior troop and served on the OCMT, improving our registration processes. She helped us to improve our offering by explaining what resources were available to us and was a critical part of increasing our girl population from around 40 to around 127, ranging from Daisies to Cadettes. She was the Games Master at camp and orchestrated several excellent camps for the whole troop at Our Chalet in Adelboden. Those were magical moments and without Kathy, it would not have been the same.

Through her network in Girl Scouts, Kathy was invited to participate in the establishment of the Council of Advisors for Girl Scouts Overseas. She has an excellent knowledge of Girl Scouts and a strong network which she combines with her strong strategic thinking and planning skills to give great advice and support to the Girl Scouts Overseas staff. She served as an NCS delegate in the 20-23 biennium. Kathy also contributes to her community in a myriad of other ways, serving on the Board of FAWCO and volunteering with the Chad’s Ford Historical Society and Parent Teacher’s Association as just a couple of examples. She embodies the principles of Girl Scouting - a woman of courage, confidence and character who makes her world, and that of others, a better place every day.

Kathy

was an integral part of creating lifetime memories and relationships for USAGSO girls and young women.

Annika Carle

Annika has been an active member of USAGSO since she was a Girl Scout Brownie in Korea. From Girl Scout Cadettes on, she has been a Juliette, who was an alternate on the NCS delegation for 2023, active in supporting the Council of Advisors with advice on girl issues. She was also part of the USAGSO group that went to Sangam in 2024, and has served as a workshop leader and end-note speaker representing and discussing USAGSO and Global Girl Scouting issues at the Global Leadership Conference sponsored by Girl Scouts of Green and White Mountains. She has also been recently selected to serve as a USAGSO girl delegate for the National Council Session in 2026.

Annika has also been a CIT in the U.S. and Germany and looks forward to working at a camp in NYPENN Pathways this summer. On top of all of this, she is a European medalist for speech and debate, a member of her school Student Council Executive Board, and just finished an internship at the Obama Presidential Library through the National Archives. Annika represents and showcases USAGSO in everything she does and has become enmeshed in USAGSO and GSUSA in such a way that there is rarely a Zoom call or event that she attends that someone doesn't know her. She is exactly the kind of girl that USAGSO wants to represent their next 100 years.

Annika represents and showcases USAGSO in everything she does!

Sjoukje Neil

Sjoukje has been involved in Girl Scouting since she was 14 and is a lifelong cheerleader for all things Girl Scout and Girl Guide related. She is a dynamic, mentoring, supportive leader who has made significant contributions to the USAGSO community in Basel, Switzerland, but more recently to the Council of Advisors, first as member at large, then as Development Committee Chair, and now as CoA Chair. I first got to know Sjoukje when I was recruiting new CoA members in my role as Chair of the Development Committee. We instantly connected during that recruitment process, and I have enjoyed working with her ever since.

Sjoukje is a critical member of the USAGSO leadership team on the volunteer side. By way of background, she served as a troop leader for Basel International Girl Scouts, Switzerland from 2010-2013, and then as OCC from 2013-2016. During her time as Chair, she essentially created the structure for the management team, focusing on recruiting and developing leaders. By the time she stepped down, the location had over 100 registered girls and was a sustainable unit. As CoA member, she made important contributions to the drafting of the Operating Rules, applying her considerable interpersonal skills and diplomacy to help ensure approval by the various departments within GSO. As Chair of the CoA, Sjoukje managed the somewhat delicate process of right-sizing the group, after the reorganization of USAGSO. She is a joy to work with, a fun and funny #smartchick, and I am lucky to call her my friend as well as my colleague.

Beyond all this, Sjoukje is a massively talented, passionate, empathetic leader and colleague who knows how to build and motivate teams, analyze problems and build solutions.

Nancy Jones

When I think of the global reach of USAGSO, I think of Nancy Jones. For her decades of thoughtful leadership and dedicated service within USAGSO, I am pleased to nominate Nancy.

I met Nancy in 2005 when her husband’s work with the U.S. Department of Defense schools (DoDEA) brought their family to Guam. As Executive Director of the Guam Girl Scouts (GGSI), I hired Nancy to serve as the Director of Membership Services. She represented a lifetime of Girl Scout experience, having been a girl member in Minnesota, a troop leader, trainer and staff member. She also had a global background with USAGSO, in Europe and Okinawa.

Serving on a three-person staff for GGSI meant taking on responsibilities beyond the job title. Nancy’s knowledge and love of the Girl Scout program, along with her willingness to learn in new areas of work enabled her to wear multiple Girl Scout hats while on Guam. The ways in which she carried out her multiple roles led to her becoming a very positive representative of the Girl Scout program! Among the many highlights of her work which helped to increase membership and improve the quality of the Girl Scout experience on Guam are:

RECRUITING : Nancy’s interest in the local Guam community and customs along with her familiarity with family life on military bases enabled her to easily interact with all residents on Guam. She joined a local church, attended cultural events, visited schools and became a positive, friendly face of Guam Girl Scouts. Girl and adult membership increased significantly during her tenure.

TRAINING: Nancy was the first GGSI member to have earned the Girl Scouts “Master Trainer” designation, and she was instrumental in updating the methods for Guam leader training and older girl programtraining. Nancy brought other skills to the table, specifically her culinary talents! Every training class included Nancy’s homemade treats and other specialties- she helped to create a very welcoming, comfortable environment for all at the Girl Scout Service Center.

SUPPORTING LEADERS: Nancy helped to establish the Volunteer Delivery System on Guam, to enable greater outreach and accessibility across the island and to create leadership opportunities for volunteers. She managed membership records and helped to retain leaders by coordinating membership transfers to/from Guam. Nancy did an outstanding job of organizing the annual Leader Appreciation celebration and the presentation of awards.

PROMOTING GIRL AWARDS: Nancy guided staff and leaders in involving older girl members, whether at the troop level, island-wide Girl Scout events or summer camp roles. She was committed to the girls’ skill development and provided them training.

MANAGING “THE STORE”: Nancy was responsible for maintaining the inventory of the island’s only Girl Scout Store. It was small, but she made sure that Girl Scout uniforms, insignia and other items were available. Nancy introduced (USAGSO and GSUSA-approved) Guam Girl Scouts merchandise. Nancy also built a partnership with the Accounting students at the Guam Community College that was so successful it became a highly-anticipated tradition for both GGSI and the students - and it even yielded new troop leaders!

In her eight years on the Guam Girl Scout staff, Nancy was a source of Girl Scout knowledge, Girl Scout service, Girl Scout friendship and Girl Scout fun!

Mary Castro

There are many individuals who have generously committed time and skills in support of USA Girl Scouts Overseas. But I cannot imagine one more dedicated and devoted to the Movement than Mary Castro!

Mary was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, where she was a girl member of Girl Scouts, and her mother a troop leader. After college, Mary moved to Guam where she has lived all her adult life. I met and got to know her in the early 1990s. She was a Girl Scout troop leader who relished the role, and the joy she found in it inspired me to become involved in the Guam Girl Scouts. I am forever grateful to her for that!

Mary impressed me early on with her interpretation of Girl Scouting. She had a knack for incorporating nature and the “natural” in most activities; the girls always had fun, while they learned so much about the outdoors and themselves. Mary helped girls in building their confidence as she helped them develop their independence. Several years after I became the Executive Director of Guam Girl Scouts (GGSI), I hired Mary as the Director of Program Services. (One of three GGSI staff positions). She knew, loved and lived the Girl Scout program, and I believed she would be an asset in creating and carrying out quality Girl Scout activity for GGSI. Mary has always been happiest when working “behind-the-scenes”. However, in many of her Girl Scout works, she had to step forward. For Mary, the reward was in seeing girls grow, form friendships and discover how to make their dreams come true. I could write pages of Mary’s accomplishments, which helped to inspire and retain girl and adult membership as well as community support, but here are just a few:

Mary acquired the Girl Scout “Trainer” and “Train the Trainer” credentials to help build a base of strong leaders. She conducted countless classes for GGSI, always striving to fit the schedules of the volunteers. On an island with limited resources, Mary guided them in learning how to discover and maximize resources available. In addition, she became a certified Red Cross instructor.

Mary successfully managed the island’s Girl Scout cookie activity. She developed a manual for the cookie sale and created a training program for leaders and “cookie parents”. She prepared the GGIS cookies order, organized and led the cookies distribution to troops and assisted the cookie managers.

Mary was responsible for GGSI’s summer camp program. She worked alongside the camp director in developing camp content. Creating a wide variety of summer experiences was challenging, with limited island resources, yet Mary was highly skilled in doing so.

One of Mary’s most impressive program achievements was a week-long activity for older girls, “Yes, I Can Go To College!”. GGSI was one of 12 Girl Scout locations to receive grant funding for this wonderful opportunity for older girls who hoped to become the first in their families to attend college. For years, Mary single-handedly edited and produced a top-quality, bi-monthly GGSI newsletter. The newsletter featured extensive coverage of local Girl Scout efforts and was distributed not only to all Girl Scout members, but also throughout the community! Mary served in her “staff-plus” position for more than 12 years, retiring in 2015.

She left a lasting impact on Guam Girl Scouts, and on the island, as she shared her talents in helping to develop a strong program, strong leaders and strong girls!

Jacqueline Jones

All of Jackie’s time in Girl Scouts has been overseas. From Germany and the Netherlands, all the way to Guam. She has lead multiple troops and helped others along the way. She also volunteers as a member of the OCMT in Germany.

This year, she has been the primary leader of a Girl Scout Junior troop, dedicating countless hours planning and conducting lessons. Her dedication has brought so much joy and excitement to her troop and the larger Girl Scouts Overseas community of Stuttgart.

Her dedication has brought so much joy and excitement to her troop and the Stuttgart community.

Kim Powell

Kim is a Lifetime Member of USAGSO Paris who has dedicated almost 30 years to the program. She is a past delegate, OCC and troop leader. Whenever she is called upon for service, she answers. She is my role model, mentor and Girl Scout sister, and I’m honored to know her and nominate her!

She is my role model, mentor and Girl Scout sister!

Ruth Miller

Ruth first became a troop leader not long after moving to Okinawa, Japan, when she was told that her daughter could not be a Girl Scout unless someone stepped up to be the leader. Ruth said yes and threw herself into it, heart and soul; and this is the spirit she has embodied ever since, in her 25+ years of volunteering with USA Girl Scouts Overseas.

Having embraced the lifestyle of making the world a better place with her daughters (and everyone else’s!), Ruth has gone on to hold almost every position possible on an OCMT, including OCC. She planned numerous large scale events – including a Centennial Camporee open to all of Europe in 2012 – and raised the visibility of Girl Scouts at whichever OC she was at to such a high level that it lasted for years to come. One particular service project that she started (cleaning headstones biannually at the US military cemetery outside Cambridge, UK) ran consistently for nearly 20 years, with thousands of girls participating over that time. She successfully mentored a girl to being the first Gold Award Girl Scout at their OC in over 20 years, and following the success of that award – and Ruth’s insistence in making it a base wide celebration – she then went on to mentor four more girls through the same process over the next five years. She has constantly adapted her methods and approach to being a leader to make sure that she was being the best volunteer she could be for the girls.

Outside of her OC, Ruth has actively taken on additional projects and responsibilities that have taken her around the globe. Once she became a Global Facilitator, she frequently travelled to wherever she was needed to deliver much needed training, advice and support from locations such as Singapore to Switzerland.

She has volunteered at camps, assisted with older girl weekends, facilitated at in-person and virtual learning conferences, served as a National Delegate and supported volunteers and staff at every opportunity and on any project.

Her latest big venture was as one of the founding members of the Overseas Volunteer Partners – and she is still a key member of the OVP Advisory Team.

The main takeaway is that Ruth is the embodiment of a USAGSO volunteer. Flexible, adaptable, kind, courageous, patient- Ruth has been a steady thread and a shining star of our history in the 21st century (and a little bit before!), and likely will be for years to come.

Sticking with older girl grade levels, Ruth was a dedicated troop leader for many years who always put the girls first in her words, actions, and example to other leaders.

Emily Schetter

Emily is a very dedicated leader who always helps the team. Emily has consistently been a role model to the girls and is a great help to the other leaders.

She is hard working and amazingly dedicated and never stops! She deserves high honors in all she does. I’ve never seen anyone work so hard or dedicate their entire being to whatever she is working on. She is amazing!

Emily has consistently been a role model to the girls.

Lane Deason Wallace

Lane was the Executive Director of USAGSO from February 2021 to March 2024, and she was fantastic! On the one hand, she was professional and serious, while on the other hand, she was also kind, fun and approachable. That made all the difference for those of us who are easily intimidated by higher-ups. Lane was the Executive Director of USAGSO from 20212024, and she was fantastic!

Sonsoles Saenz de Santa Maria Vitores

For four years, from June of 2013 to June 0f 2017, Sonsoles was not only the OCC for the Madrid Overseas Committee, she was basically the entire Madrid OCMT, forging ahead with the weight of at least six troops, including upwards of 80-90 girls and at least 20 troop leaders. It was only after she stepped down and passed the torch on to us that we truly became aware of the massive amount of work she had put into sustaining and supporting our community. What a remarkable contribution she made!

For four years, Sonsoles was basically the entire Madrid OCMT, ensuring Girl Scouts continued in the community.

Rachael Wilson

Rachael has not only been a volunteer, raising her own daughter through the Girl Scout program, but now continues to share her time with other young Girl Scouts. She fills any empty volunteer spot, leads and organizes relentless numbers of activities and serves not only as a mentor to the girls, but to new volunteers, especially new troop leaders. She gives so much of herself- being a troop leader, OCMT member and advising a troop with new leaders- but also enlisted her husband to fill the critical position of Treasurer until another could be found. In a transition military community, Rachael provides a critical position of longevity for our community with a smile and a can do attitude!

In a transition military community, Rachael provides a critical position of longevity for our community with a smile and a can do attitude!

Emily Fowler Sapru

Emily joined Dhahran Girl Scouts as a Girl Scout Daisy leader in 2021. She has been an outstanding leader for her Daisies and led them into Brownie status. Emily has gone above and beyond her Girl Scout leadership duties and has been there for the girls whenever they need her.

During her leadership, she has taken on the role of mom, leader, nurse, counselor and an excellent co-leader. She displays great leadership skills, tunes into the girl social/emotional issues and goes above and beyond, even staying after meetings to facilitate late pick up. She ensures each girl earns very rewarding patches, badges and Journeys and tunes into their needs and interests while doing so.

She has recently taken the position of Registrar (without hesitation) on our Girl Scout board. She has truly made Girl Scouts an unforgettable experience for 15 Daisies/Brownies and their families within the Dhahran community.

Emily has gone above and beyond her Girl Scout leadership duties and has been there for the girls whenever they need her.

Erin Twamley

It is hard to capture the true impact Erin Twamley has had on USAGSO. She has been an active volunteer in local Overseas Committees in both Germany and Belgium when her husband's assignment took their family there. She also served as a USAGSO Program Partner, where she was instrumental in building the uber-successful STEMinist program. The STEMinist program launched in 2020 during COVID as a 100% virtual offering and kept Girl Scouts engaged when the organization would have otherwise likely lost those members. As COVID restrictions lifted in 2022 and beyond, Erin expanded the STEMinist program to include in-person offerings via Robotics Day programs in Asia and Europe and STEM programming at each Camp USAGSO session. To date, the STEMinist program has served 1,719 unique Girl Scouts! Erin has also netted over $20,000 in corporate sponsorships to support the STEMinist program.

Erin was instrumental in building the STEMinist program in 2020 and kept Girl Scouts engaged when the organization would have otherwise likely lost those members.

Hadley Barth

Hadley has been a volunteer with USAGSO for 20+ years. She has, quite literally, kept Heidelberg Girl Scouts afloat for many years, managing the transition from military to civilian Overseas Committee when the U.S. military base there closed. She is also a founding Advisory Team Member of the Overseas Volunteer Partners and helped build that program from the ground up with three other Advisory Team Members. Most recently, Hadley has taken on the volunteer role of CIT Director for Camp USAGSO, designing and delivering CIT I and CIT II trainings for Girl Scouts Overseas at camps in Switzerland, Germany, and this summer, Taiwan.

Hadley has been a volunteer with USAGSO for 20+ years, and has, quite literally, kept Heidelberg Girl Scouts afloat for many years.

Susan Street

In Fall 2021, I volunteered to become a leader for my daughter’s Girl Scout Brownie troop. I was not a Girl Scout as a child and only knew a bit about the organization. I met Susan at my first leader meeting and quickly realized that her knowledge of and passion for all things Girl Scout would be key to understanding and facilitating the Girl Scout Leadership Experience.

At that time and in the years since, Susan has served as a member of the Wiesbaden OCMT, with a focus on providing training for leaders. She conducts annual leader training in the fall for all leaders and provides quick, but rich, training sessions at monthly leader meetings on topics such as making activities girl-led, progressing girls through outdoor experiences and managing troop and volunteer personalities and pitfalls. Susan’s many years of Girl Scout leadership at both the troop and council level allow her to provide helpful insights for both new and experienced leaders. I always leave her training sessions with a page full of notes and ideas!

Susan also takes responsibility for inventorying, updating and checking in and out all leader supplies annually, including all hard-copy badge and Journey materials and keys to the Girl Scout huts. She ensures that we have everything that we need for planning, hosting meetings and activities and managing cookie booths. She is also a big part of managing the Camporee supplies inventory, always on hand to check out tents, cooking equipment and sleeping mats and bags.

Another key role that Susan plays for the Wiesbaden Girl Scout community is Red Cross liaison/trainer. Susan conducts multiple First Aid/CPR sessions specifically for our Girl Scout community each year in addition to the training she conducts for other community groups and members.

So far, this endorsement only shares what Susan does in our Girl Scout community, but I am not sure it captures how she does it which is most important.

Susan Street is, to me, the epitome of considerate and caring, courageous and strong, responsible, respectful, and wise. She is, unfailingly, a sister to every Girl Scout in all her words and deeds. Susan is actually very quiet. She does not impose her opinions on less-experienced leaders. She waits until asked for help to share her knowledge. Her always calm, rational voice often cuts through and resolves indecision or division in leader meetings. In fact, she will often be at leader meetings or Girl Scout events and remain quiet or out of the way always there if needed but allowing others to grow in leadership and experience.

I think that those of us who come to Girl Scouts as parents do so because we want our daughters to become adults who embody the attributes of the Girl Scout Law. I am so pleased that my daughter and I have Susan Street as a model Girl Scout to emulate. I understand that, after Susan’s many years of service to the Girl Scouts, she deserves to retire, but she will always be an important part of how I learned to be a Girl Scout leader and how I perceive the ideal Girl Scout.

Susan Street is, to me, the epitome of considerate and caring, courageous and strong, responsible, respectful and wise.

Annamarie Eckes

Annamarie has been my daughter’s leader for the past two years. She has put so much time and effort into her troop and helped them become like a family. She has taught them so much and found so many opportunities to help the girls learn about the culture we are living in. She is a phenomenal leader and the reason my daughter wants to continue Girl Scouts.

Annamarie is the reason my daughter wants to continue Girl Scouts.

Kristen Schoellhorn

Kristen Schoellhorn has been my Girl Scout mentor since 2021- and has become one of my closest friends. Her character and willingness to make sure all girls and families are included is exactly what Girl Scouts is all about. She has positively affected every person in my family, including my two current Girl Scouts. She has been a blessing to me and those in our Girl Scout community, and I am honored to be her friend.

Her character and willingness to make sure all girls and families are included is exactly what Girl Scouts is all about.

Amy Robinson

Amy Robinson has consistently gone above and beyond in supporting me and other leaders not just during cookie season, but throughout the year. She is always willing to lend a hand- whether it’s assisting with troop needs, offering valuable advice or stepping in whenever help is needed. Her dedication is evident in the way she goes out of her way to ensure success, even driving from Vilseck to assist with meetings. Amy’s commitment, generosity and leadership make her an invaluable asset to our Girl Scout community, and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.

Amy’s commitment, generosity and leadership make her an invaluable asset to our Girl Scout community.

Carol Rhan

Carol is a Lifetime Member of the Girl Scouts and has made significant contributions to the organization over the years. Carol has always demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication. I first met Carol while a volunteer at Alconbury, UK, and as a USAGSO-NA Atlantic trainer. From the moment we met, we hit it off immediately.

Carol's passion for the Girl Scouts and her commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment have always been evident. Her ability to connect with others and inspire them to achieve their best is truly remarkable. Overseas, Carol spent time volunteering for USAGSO in both Berlin and Turkey. Carol became Assistant CEO, working alongside Margaret Renwand in both Germany and Italy. In this role, she continued to show her devotion to the Girl Scouts, always prioritizing the best interests of the girls and volunteers. Carol and I, with others, traveled to Austin, Texas, for the rollout of the GSLE conference. Upon our return to Europe, we facilitated numerous sessions in various locations to spread the information. Carol truly lives by the Girl Scout Law and Promise. Her tireless efforts and unwavering dedication have left a lasting legacy in the Girl Scouts community. In recognition of her outstanding contributions and lifelong commitment to the Girl Scouts, I wholeheartedly nominate Carol Rhan as a 100@100 USAGSO Honoree. Thank you Carol!

Her tireless efforts and unwavering dedication have left a lasting legacy in the Girl Scout community.

Michele Waters

Michele's journey with the Girl Scouts began as a Girl Scout Daisy in Virginia, and she continued her involvement when her family moved to England. Throughout her time as a Girl Scout, Michele has demonstrated exceptional commitment and leadership. Michele earned the Girl Scout Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards. Her Gold Award project focused on introducing girls to STEM at an early age, highlighting her passion for empowering young women through education, innovation and science. Michele's love for the outdoors was highly encouraged by Girl Scouts and is evident in her active participation in camping and outdoor activities. Her troop enjoyed white water rafting, surfing, hiking and attending older girl events such as Hanging in Heidelberg and Passport to Pisa. Michele has also attended Camp Lachenwald, in Germany and Italy, numerous times during the summer holidays, further enriching her USAGSO experience. Michele was also able to participate in three Destinations programs through USAGSO – Camp Juliette in Kansas, sailing on Lake Michigan and the Galapagos Islands, including Quito where they were joined by the Ecuadorian Girl Guides. Michele has also made significant contributions to USAGSO as an adult volunteer. She was a member of the USAGSO-NA Board of Advisors and later continued as a Board member as an adult (I’m told this was the first time a girl transitioned to the adult Board). Michele has spent her summers as a camp counselor, mentored younger girls at Alconbury, was a member of the USAGSO Girl Scout Gold Award Committee and served as a Delegate. Michele was also a key-note speaker at the USAGSO Annual Learning Conference in May 2013. She has also facilitated two STEMinist Virtual Sessions and a Taste the World Session. It’s an honor to write this nomination for Michele, and I know she will continue to shine with the USAGSO family.

She is truly an asset to the program and most importantly the girls, and I’m SO proud to be her mother!

Laura Anderson

I am writing this nomination in honor of my daughter, Laura Anderson, who for the majority of her Girl Scout “career” has been a member of USAGSO. Laura first joined Girl Scouts as Daisy in Virginia. The family then moved to Okinawa, Japan, where she was immediately registered as a Girl Scout Brownie. Laura enjoyed and flourished at all levels of the program, earning her Girl Scout Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards (20 years after the last girl earned the award at Alconbury, UK). While a Girl Scout Senior, Mary Edna Wuertenberger asked Laura and another girl in our troop to help facilitate the USAGSO Bully Free Program. This was the start of Laura’s love for facilitating learning sessions. In her senior year, she attended the Train the Trainer course at the Annual Learning Conference and became a fully-fledged member of the USAGSONA Training Team. She flourished under the mentorship of Mary.

Other highlights in Laura’s USAGSO career have included many roles, such as Gold Award Committee Member, a member of the USAGSO Summer Camp Staff for eight years, starting as Unit Leader and progressing to Director, and she has still been involved in camp in various capacities over the last few years. More recently, Laura was a USAGSO Delegate and one of the founding members of the Overseas Volunteer Team and sits on the Advisory Committee. She is a true asset to the team. She is truly an asset to the program and, most importantly, the girls, and I’m so proud to be her mother!

It’s an honor to write this nomination for Laura, and I know she will continue to shine with the USAGSO family.

Mary Edna Wuertenberger

Mary Wuertenberger was known to the USAGSO-NA Training Team as our fearless leader. She managed many things during her time with USAGSO- from office operations, resident camp (the lovingly remember Camp Lachenwald), girl program, and adult learning. The latter covered managing and working with up to 20 USAGSO-NA trainers, planning the annual learning conference and scheduling and coordinating the many in-person training opportunities around Europe. She did this with such enthusiasm-it was infectious! And if you spoke to any of her team, they would tell you that they’d do anything that Mary asked, no matter how crazy! The girl program was hugely successful. Camp Lachenwald ran for a minimum of six weeks every summer, with counselors recruited from Europe and the United States. As a mother of girls who attended- both as girls and camp counselors as adults- it was a truly fantastic experience. As a mother/leader who attended several of the camps, I can confirm that it was truly amazing. On top of the summer camp, there were other events throughout the year, particularly for the older girls, like Hanging in Heidelberg and Passport to Pisa, and despite sleeping on a gym floor, these were fabulous experiences for girls and adults. I truly believe she should be included in the USAGSO 100 @ 100 list.

Mary’s blood bleeds green, and she is fondly remembered by many.

Sandy Thomas

I would like to nominate Sandy Thomas for the "100 @ 100" recognition because of her amazing contributions and dedication to the Girl Scout Movement over the past 40-50 years. Sandy's career and volunteer work have made a huge impact on so many girls and adults around the world, including me and my daughters.

Sandy was the Director of USA Girl Scouts Overseas and did an incredible job leading the program for expatriate and military families in over 200 locations across 90 countries and U.S. territories. Her leadership, mentoring and sense of humor made sure all girls and adults living overseas had a great Girl Scout experience. One of Sandy's many successes was building strong partnerships with host nation Girl Guides, U.S. embassies, corporations, and the U.S. military to support American families living overseas.

During her sixteen years as USAGSO director, Sandy criss-crossed the planet with a purpose and a plan for building capacity and supporting development of Girl Scouting. For most, that would have been “Mission Impossible”! But not for Sandy. Her innate ability to listen and to accept people where and as they are, enabled her to work effectively within a variety of multicultural settings, in large European cities, as well as in tiny islands in the Pacific, from military bases to rural farming communities.

Driven to share Girl Scouting everywhere, she met and worked with presidents, governors, generals, and leaders of businesses, churches, and schools. She met and worked with GIRLS. Through all her efforts, she represented USAGSO with intelligence, warmth, respect and an attitude of cooperation. With her broad knowledge base and adaptability, she could spend an afternoon sharing program updates with the U.S. Secretary of State, move on to analyzing a budget with USAGSO staff and then wrap up the day at a troop celebration, leading an assembly of girls in singing “Barges” and “Brown Bear, Brown Bear”.

Sandy also served as a liaison with the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS), strengthening the partnership between GSUSA and WAGGGS, which has had a huge impact on millions of girls and adults around the globe. Even in retirement, Sandy continues to give her time to the Girl Scout Movement as a National Volunteer Partner and to WAGGGS.

But Girl Scouting has been so much more for her than her “job”. Anyone who knows her will affirm that Sandy lives and breathes Girl Scouts! It’s not just what she does, it is WHO SHE IS!

Sandy is the personification of the USAGSO entity, not only wishing for a world of unlimited opportunity for girls, but working step-by-step toward it, and in the process, inspiring (and helping) others around the world to “Join the Girl Scouts!” Juliette Gordon Low would be so proud!

Sandy's career and volunteer work have made a huge impact on so many girls and adults around the world.

Elliot Riederer

Elliot helped uplift USAGSO for several years as a girl member of Girl Scouts Overseas. A Girl Scout Juliette, they completed their Girl Scout Gold Award with the project titled “Ariko: Dark Tide”, and they participated actively in the USAGSO Virtual Troop. They also joined the Madrid OC high school troop remotely (because they were the only Girl Scout in Athens, Greece at the time) and shared a new perspective with their troopmates. In addition, and expanding their impact, they were chosen as an Alternate Girl Delegate member of the USAGSO Delegation to the 2020 National Council Session of GSUSA, where they were able to participate in debating and voting on the proposals submitted.

Elliot helped uplift USAGSO for several years as a girl member of Girl Scouts Overseas.

Melissa Luker

Melissa has made tremendous contributions to supporting and uplifting Girl Scouts Overseas, both internally and with regard to GSUSA and the global Girl Scouting movement and community. She volunteered with the USAGSO Virtual Troop for almost three years, has been a Global Facilitator for almost five years now and was an Alternate National Council Delegate, representing USAGSO at the 2020 National Council Session. Her contributions have been particularly visible to other volunteers in Girl Scouts Overseas, as she has been part of the outdoor and nature education content, through VALC, for example, and also through the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics.

Melissa has made tremendous contributions to supporting and uplifting Girl Scouts Overseas.

Lucy Vedra

Lucy is an outstanding example of all the best aspects of a girl of courage, character and confidence, and it's been rewarding and exciting for me to work with her and see her mature over the last three years since she was named a National Council Delegate representing USAGSO. I was chair of the group that selected the delegates, and then Liaison and Mentor to the seven chosen delegates. In the year preceding the NCS, I had monthly Zoom meetings with the delegates, who also attended weekly webinars dealing with the six proposals that would be brought to the floor of the NCS and the parliamentary procedures that would be applied in the deliberations and voting. Once at the National Council session, Lucy was selected to be one of a handful of Discussion Facilitators, giving her a chance to partner with Sharon Matthews, a member of the GSUSA Board, practice her excellent public speaking skills, and lead one of the round table discussion sessions. It was a heavy lift for a junior high school student who was juggling a myriad of other responsibilities and activities. In addition, Lucy was at the top of her class academically (National Honor Society inductee) and active in an array of school, sports and churchrelated activities. And yet she was one of the most involved of our delegates, rarely missing a meeting and ensuring she was prepared for each discussion. With her sunny personality and great sense of humor, she livened up the group, both in her virtual sessions and during the week-long in-person National Council Session. Recently she earned her Girl Scout Gold Award with a project that addressed low initiative and unhealthy study habits in middle schoolers through a series of workshops she created using the 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens. There are few Girl Scouts who more clearly demonstrate the mission of our Movement.

She is a smart, hard-working, persevering future leader with excellent teamworking skills and a great sense of humor.

Darcy Lin

Darcy has made significant contributions to the Movement as a Girl Scout in Hong Kong. Among those, the most worthy of mention include:

Earning her Girl Scout Gold Award with a project called Read-sources

Serving on the GSUSA Girl Advisory Board as a representative of USAGSO

Serving as one of the six USAGSO National Council Delegates and served at the 56th and 57th NC sessions

Nominated to the Movement Governance Advisory Team, once again representing USAGSO

Darcy continues to excel, now as a student at Harvard University, where she is a Junior Reporter for the school newspaper, The Harvard Crimson, and a Peer Advisor.

Darcy has made significant contributions to the Movement as a Girl Scout in Hong Kong.

Kathleen Fitzsimmons

Kathleen has been a staunch supporter of USAGSO for many years, being involved in running a troop in Rome, Italy, and serving in many different capacities as a volunteer. She was a foundeing member of the Council of Advisors, providing strategic support and advice to the Executive Director and her staff, and she was Chair of the Council Development Committee, recruiting and inducting new members to the council. Kathleen has most recently supported the Executive Director by not only taking on the recruitment and selection of NCS delegates in her capacity as Chair of the CDC, but she has also built them into a team and trained them in parliamentary procedure so that they could successfully represent USAGSO.

When asked to rejoin the restructured Council of Advisors as Chair of Governance, Kathleen did not hesitate and is now busy with the next round of recruitment for NCS delegates. Along these lines, Kathleen has been this amazing stalwart for us, as our Delegation Liaison. She's proven to be a consistent and dependable support, and it's always reassuring to know that she's got our backs (and we can ask her practically anything because she'll know the answer).

She is a delight to work with. She has an extensive network within Girl Scouts and is a source of deep expertise and wisdom. She always has time to help and is totally committed to the Girl Scout cause.

She has an extensive network within Girl Scouts and is a source of deep expertise and wisdom.

Natsuki Nobu

Partnership, dedication and extraordinary planning skills Nat embodies all of these and more. As a steadfast partner to USA Girl Scouts Overseas, she has played an essential role in strengthening the bond between USAGSO and Girl Scouts of Japan, creating unforgettable cultural experiences for everyone.

A planner extraordinaire, Nat’s expertise and meticulous attention to detail have been the driving force behind countless successful events, including the much-loved Halloween Camp. Her ability to bring people together, navigate logistics seamlessly and ensure every event runs smoothly has made her an invaluable leader and collaborator.

Beyond planning, Nat is a true champion of international Girl Scouting. She understands the importance of building bridges between cultures and has worked tirelessly to create meaningful opportunities for girls to learn, grow, and connect. Nat, thank you for your friendship and making all Girl Scouts feel welcome and at home in Japan!

As a steadfast partner to USA Girl Scouts Overseas, she has played an essential role in strengthening the bond between USAGSO and Girl Scouts of Japan.

Eric Warner

As a former Council of Advisors member, Eric Warner played a vital role in shaping the future of USAGSO, offering guidance and insight to strengthen the organization’s reach and impact. He is always advocating for USAGSO and looks for ways in his work and personal life to help expand opportunities for Girl Scouts in Japan. His commitment goes far beyond leadership roles- as a local volunteer at Yokota Air Force Base, a founder of our beloved Halloween Camp, partner to Girl Scouts of Japan - Eric has helped create lasting memories and meaningful experiences for countless Girl Scouts and their families.

Eric is always advocating for USAGSO and looks for ways in his work and personal life to help expand opportunities for Girl Scouts in Japan.

Amy Kennedy

For over 15 years, Amy Kennedy has been a dedicated Girl Scout volunteer around the world. Through her leadership and unwavering commitment to Girl Scouts and their families overseas, she has touched the lives of hundreds of girls and volunteers, leaving a lasting impact that spans continents.

As a troop leader, mentor, and champion of the Girl Scout mission, Amy has led troops in Canada, Russia, and Beijing, ensuring that wherever a Girl Scout family finds themselves, they also find a welcoming and inspiring Girl Scout experience. But her influence doesn’t stop at the local level. Recognizing the need for connection in an increasingly global world, she helped spearhead the Virtual Troop initiative. Amy basically led the USAGSO Virtual Troop, which was a real lifesaver for a lot of our girls in need of more human connection. And this was not just for our Juliettes overseas. It included any Girl Scouts who wanted to join. When my daughter joined the Virtual Troop, I ended up joining as a volunteer, too, and was tremendously impressed and awestruck by Amy's work.

Her passion for USA Girl Scouts Overseas is unmatched. She understands the unique challenges and opportunities of the overseas community and has been a tireless advocate for ensuring Girl Scouting remains a source of leadership, adventure and sisterhood for military, expat, and global families.

She is also one of the only people I know who when asked to chaperone 31 Girl Scouts on a trip to India in four weeks takes less than 24 hours to clear her schedule.

Her passion for USA Girl Scouts Overseas is unmatched.

Nobuko Asano

USA Girl Scouts Overseas’ partnership with Girl Scouts of Japan would not exist without Knob. When two organizations come together in true partnership, it takes a special kind of leader to bridge cultures, foster collaboration, and create a lasting bond of sisterhood. Knob is that Girl Scout.

Through her unwavering enthusiasm, adventurous spirit, and deep commitment to Girl Scouts she is the reason that Girl Scouts of Japan and USA Girl Scouts Overseas are such strong partners. Knob, thank you for your friendship and for making all USAGSO Girl Scouts feel welcome and at home in Japan!

It takes a special kind of leader to bridge cultures, foster collaboration and create a lasting bond of sisterhood.

Susan Williams

Sue is a 75+ year member of Girl Scouting with a life-long affinity for the global Movement. In the 70’s when stationed in Japan (Army spouse, Tim), she served as the GSUSA commissioner. She led programs and adventures for U.S. and Japanese girls. Girl Scouts of Japan awarded her a Thanks Badge for her exemplary service.

Once stateside, she infused global programming into the work of Commonwealth Girl Scout Council of Virginia where she served as Program Director. The council partnered with GSUSA to host and support many exchanges and events. Both she and the council were awarded the Juliette Low World Friendship Medal. Sue continues this commitment as an active supporter of OBPS and the World Foundation.

Sue is a 75+ year member of Girl Scouting with a life-long affinity for the global Movement.

Nicole Plaza Bajaña

Nicole is an essential member of not only our troop, but for our OCMT. She is a full time educator and full time student pursuing her Masters, mother of four and a dedicated troop leader and Secretary for her OCMT. She has dedicated numerous hours of selfless service to her Girl Scout community.

She has dedicated numerous hours of selfless service to her Girl Scout community.

Neenah Terrell

Last Girl Scout season, Neenah helped take the lead as a co-leader for Girl Scout Daisy troop. She studied the ins and outs of Girl Scouts and was the head of every project we did. She was brand new to Girl Scouts as a leader, but made sure to teach me and my other co-leader everything as she learned it.

This year, she is a co-leader with me again, and we now have a Daisy and Brownie troop combined. She is also co-OCC for our area and the Cookie Manager. The OCC position was thrown on her as an opportunity that needed to be taken otherwise Girl Scouts would not exist for our area overseas. For the betterment of the girls and the program, she has taken on more than her fair share of co-OCC and Cookie Manager responsibilities. She goes above and beyond within the community, as well as working a full-time job and having three young children of her own. Without her, our USAGSO community would not exist.

For the betterment of the girls and the program, she has taken on more than her fair share of co-OCC and Cookie Manager responsibilities.

Pamela Cruz

Pam grew up in Melbourne Australia, lived in the U.S. mainland and has been a resident of Guam for more than 40 years. She recently retired as executive vice president of Takagi & Associates, a leading insurance company based on Guam, where she has been known as a highly-respected professional and a strong, well-spoken community leader.

Pam has devoted decades of her life to the Guam Girl Scouts! She served initially as secretary of the Board of Directors, then as vicepresident and ultimately, as board president for multiple terms. I worked with Pam throughout my 19 years as the Guam Girl Scouts (GGSI) executive director. Pam was an ideal board president and leadership partner! Always a staunch advocate for Girl Scouting, she promoted the program wherever she went. At the same time, she focused her leadership skills on fulfilling the GSUSA License requirements, particularly relating to the Board’s governance, oversight and fiduciary responsibilities. All along, she was, and remains, a role model for girls and adults, a business mentor and an admired friend.

Pam led by example. In her approach to leadership, she often went far beyond what the board chair role required. We have been very fortunate to have her for so many years as a face, and a force, for Girl Scouting in our island community, in the region and in USAGSO!

In addition to her skills in working effectively with people from many backgrounds, Pam’s integrity and graciousness are assets that enhanced her work for and with Girl Scouts.

Anna Coss

Anna Coss is an exceptional leader and dedicated volunteer who has contributed immensely to USA Girl Scouts Overseas since 2016. As a registered nurse, Anna has utilized her skills and expertise to ensure the health and well-being of Girl Scouts, allowing troops, communities and campers to have safe and enriching experiences. Anna has served in various capacities within her community, from troop leader to Overseas Committee Chair, and extended into serving the great USAGSO community as a nurse for week-long camp and overnight events. Whether providing medical guidance at camp or leading Girl Scout Daisies, Anna has helped strengthen USAGSO’s programs, ensuring that Girl Scouts thrive in an inclusive and healthconscious setting.

Anna has utilized her skills and expertise to ensure the health and well-being of Girl Scouts, allowing troops, communities and campers to have safe and enriching experiences.

Molly McGarity

Molly McGarity is a Lifetime Member of Girl Scouts, an intern with the USA Girl Scouts Overseas member experience team and has been a camp counselor for USAGSO week-long camp programs since 2023. Molly is the kind of changemaker who doesn’t wait for opportunitiesshe creates them. Molly has been the mastermind behind creating and piloting environmentally-focused STEM activities for camp, blending her science knowledge with her Girl Scout spirit. Molly is dedicated to ensuring Girl Scouts and volunteer experiences have sound environmental literacy with a spark of STEM.

Molly is currently studying at the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Education & Interpretation with a minor in Urban Environmental Science.

Molly is the kind of changemaker who doesn’t wait for opportunities- she creates them.

Sarah Parks Murphey

Sarah has been a member of USAGSO-Stuttgart for 11 years, and throughout those past 11 years, has served as a troop leader and in various roles on our OCMT. She is always volunteering and helping our leaders and girls. I’m not sure where she finds the energy nor when she sleeps because she is always involved in helping our Girl Scouts be all they can be. She is the model leader in all her roles.

As a troop leader, Sarah challenges her girls to grow and lead through the experiences their troop participates in. They are often traveling, volunteering and participating in events around our community in addition to the regular Girl Scout program. Sarah understands what it means to have a girl-led program, and she encourages her girls to take the initiative in all areas of their troop. As the treasurer for our community, Sarah ensures that our community is financially sound in all regards. She is honest, trustworthy and a good steward of the funds our community raises. She leads our troop leaders to be the same. She tracks all money in and out of our troops and community with impeccable accuracy and visibility so that every member of our community knows exactly where our money is being spent. Sarah, as Treasurer, not only holds the responsibility for the financial aspects of our organization, but she also has upheld a legacy of continuity and excellence here so that our community can continue to thrive and flourish despite the amount of turnover we have as a military community. As a member of the OCMT, she is truly an invaluable asset to our community.

Sarah exemplifies Girl Scouts and has dedicated thousands of hours throughout her tenure in Stuttgart to growing and improving the Girl Scout program for our community.

Karlie Gaspard

Karlie Gaspard has been serving as an Overseas Committee Chair for USAGSO Bavaria-Hohenfels for two years. For both our OCMT and Girl Scouts, she has been a guiding light for our organization. She has created an environment where our Girl Scouts and troop leaders can feel her love, dedication and support.

To say Karlie is an asset to our organization is an understatement. She is an expert in her role as an OCC and uses her knowledge to guide and empower her volunteers to lead outstanding Girl Scout troops. It is Karlie’s personal mission to ensure all of our Girl Scouts have amazing USAGSO experiences. Karlie has a gift for creating spaces for each Girl Scout to feel empowered and special.

Karlie will leave our organization this year and will be beyond sorely missed. Karlie deserves to be recognized as an exceptional volunteer; she has not only captained our ship here at Hohenfels, she has been our compass! Her extraordinary contributions have created a lasting legacy at USA Girl Scouts Overseas.

Karlie has a gift for creating spaces for each Girl Scout to feel empowered and special.

Lisa Ouzzani

Lisa was not only a troop leader for Girl Scout Daisies to Ambassadors at various times, but also our OC Chair for over 12 years! She was an amazing leader, organizer and a mentor for our Girl Scouts and all adult volunteers. She has provided so many valuable opportunities and fun for the girls thanks to her great organizational skills, creative energy and tireless efforts! She is an inspiration for all our girls as well as adult volunteers. And we would not be such a strong community in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, especially back in the days of many restrictions, without her laying a strong foundation to make the Girl Scouting experience truly empowering!

We would not be such a strong Girl Scout community in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia without her.

Allicia Fairbanks

Allicia Fairbanks serving as the Overseas Committee Chairman in Hohenfels has been much more than a role for her – it has been a mission to create an environment where girls thrive, leaders grow, and the Girl Scout community flourishes.

In her role as OCC, Allicia has gone above and beyond to ensure the seamless operation of the Overseas Committee. Her organizational skills are unparalleled- she masterfully coordinates meetings, oversees budgets and ensures compliance with Girl Scout policies – all while maintaining a welcoming and inclusive leadership style. Allicia has also demonstrated a deep commitment to providing girls with meaningful and memorable experiences.

Beyond her official responsibilities as OCC, Allicia also serves as one of our Brownie troop leaders. Her innovative ideas and relentless dedication ensure that girls not only earn badges, but also develop confidence, leadership skills, and a lifelong commitment to making the world a better place.

In summary, Allicia embodies the Girl Scout values of courage, confidence, and character in every aspect of her service as OCC in Hohenfels. Her extraordinary contributions have created a legacy at USA Girl Scouts Overseas, and she continues to inspire everyone fortunate enough to work alongside her. For her outstanding dedication and impact, Allicia deserves to be recognized as an exceptional volunteer who has made a difference in the lives of so many.

Her dedication, creativity and tireless efforts have made a profound impact on Girl Scouts Overseas, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment for girls and volunteers alike.

Carol Pouchol

Carol has been a part of Girl Scouts since she was herself a Girl Scout. She even earned her First Class Award. Carol was a troop leader for her daughters’ troops and has been on the Paris OCMT for many years, taking care of patches and always ready to help wherever she can- whether it’s in person, via e-mail or just giving advice. She has been the treasurer for many, many years. We couldn’t function without her. She has served as a delegate for USAGSO and is on the Council of Advisors as well. She was instrumental in getting permission for the overseas communities to sell cookies digitally and now in person at the Paris embassy for the first time. She has even stocked an entire pallet of cookies in her home awaiting our first-ever live cookie sales in Paris.

Carol is the personification of “make the world a better place” and has received every single Girl Scout Adult Award there is, including the Thanks II Badge. She also volunteers in other organizations and just received the Presidential Volunteer Service Lifetime Award with well over 10,000 hours of volunteer service in several countries. Carol has lifted up Girl Scouts everywhere by being an exemplary role model, she has uplifted USAGSO Paris with her tireless service and good cheer and has lifted up USAGSO with her endless help and participation in various aspects of the organization. This world could use more people like Carol Pouchol. She is just phenomenal and deserves our love and praise. Plus, she is one of the nicest people you will ever meet.

Carol is the personification of “make the world a better place”.

Andrea Ronkowski

Andrea is the lifeblood of the Tokyo multi-level troop. She organizes all of the troop co-leaders and ensures that everyone has supplies and support when they need it. She goes beyond leadership of our troop to create opportunities for our troops to interact with other Girl Scout troops in the Tokyo area at local military bases and with Japanese Girl Scouts. For example, she is organizing "Tokyo Trek" that will pair U.S. and Japanese Girl Scouts in a journey around Tokyo, collecting clues that will lead them to spots around the city and teaching them to use public transportation with only minimal adult supervision. Working with Andrea has made me a better leader, and she has supported so many girls during their Girl Scout journeys in Tokyo.

She goes beyond leadership of our troop to create opportunities for our troops to interact with other Girl Scouts.

Stacie Weddle

Stacie has 13 years experience with Girl Scouts Overseas and has proven her commitment to the mission, changed the lives of girls and made an impact on USAGSO communities around the world. Stacie has been a Girl Scout leader in four different countries over the last 13 years. She works full time and volunteers at her church, but always puts Girl Scouts first. She knows the program inside and out and always ensures that her troop members are having fun in a safe, productive environment.

Stacie has led troops in Argentina, Madrid, Bogota and Japan and has served on the OCMT in Yokosuka, Japan. She started the USAGSO community in Buenos Aires and served as the leader and unofficial OCC there for two years. Thanks to her, the international school began including Girl Scouts as an official afterschool activity.

Stacie has emphasized diversity and cultural awareness by helping troop members in multiple countries earn the Lady Baden Powell Award and the International Friendship pin. She has coordinated several joint events between the Japanese Girl Scouts and the Yokosuka community, including Friendsgiving 2023 and Ski Camp 2023 and 2024. She has liaised between the Kanagawa Prefecture liaison and the Yokosuka OCMT to ensure that both her troop and the other Yokosuka troops have opportunities to participate in culture-sharing with their Japanese sister troops. She is a huge asset to USA Girl Scout Overseas and embodies the mission of Girl Scouting.

She has demonstrated her commitment to the Movement by ensuring that girls have a place to participate in Girl Scouting, no matter where they are in the world.

The Walt Family

The Walt family have been a huge part of Kaiserslautern Girl Scouts since they moved to Germany. Daughter Gina (now a 12th grader) has been an active member and supports a majority of our events by helping out the younger Girl Scouts. Mom Christina has led our Girl Scout Senior/Ambassador troop and has put a lot of effort into making it fun and full of adventure for them. Dad Michael has been an active volunteer with the troop and an OCMT member, helping with community relations and now as the Cookie Manager. We are super thankful for all of them and as Gina is their third and last Girl Scout, I think they deserve some Girl Scout recognition.

We are super thankful for all of them, and they have been a huge part of Kaiserslautern Girl Scouts.

Sarah Ehrlich

Dedicated, organized and creative, USAGSO Camp Director, Sarah Ehrlich helped bring camp experiences back for Girl Scouts Overseas after COVID. From the Swiss Alps to river trekking in Taiwan, Girl Scouts outdoor learning and experiences are highlighted in the unique camp opportunities for our Girl Scouts.

Sarah is dedicated to planning girl-led activities by partnering with Girl Scout volunteers to bring their talents to camp. From STEM to environmental education and even first aid, Sarah uses former Girl Scouts’ expertise to bring camp programs to life. She is an exceptional overseas camp director- who orchestrated camp magic for more than 250 Girl Scouts at four camps in three different countries AND is coming back for more in 2025!

Dedicated, organized and creative, Sarah helped bring camp experiences back for Girl Scouts Overseas after COVID.

Jennifer Randall

Jennifer Randall has been a Girl Scouting leader for over 14 years when her first daughter started Girl Scouts as a Daisy. She has served as a volunteer for Girl Scouts and Girl Scouts Overseas starting as a Daisy leader and following her oldest daughter through her last year of Girl Scouts this year. She has served as a leader at all locations they have been stationed, including Italy and their current location in Misawa. She is an incredible asset to the support of our program as she serves both Girl Scout Brownie and Junior troops. She also serves on the OCMT board as our registrar and helps to recruit new leaders and new Girl Scouts locally. She can commonly be seen around our small base proudly wearing her Girl Scout attire, and everyone affectionately knows her as the Girl Scout Guru. Our Misawa Girl Scouts would not be the same without our very own Jennifer Randall.

She can commonly be seen around our small base proudly wearing her Girl Scout attire, and everyone affectionately knows her as the Girl Scout Guru.

Cynthia Panzini

I am honored to nominate Cynthia Panzini in recognition of her extraordinary commitment and over 60 years of service to Girl Scouts, namely USA Girl Scouts Overseas.

As a former U.S. Navy member, Cynthia brought a spirit of leadership, dedication and selflessness to everything she has done within USAGSO. Whether serving as a troop leader, planning camps, coordinating events or training others, Cynthia has consistently demonstrated her tireless dedication to the growth and enrichment of our members. Her commitment to service is unparalleled, and her contributions have touched countless lives and locations over the years.

Cynthia currently lives in Sardinia, however, she has volunteered in many locations around the world, including the Philippines, Japan, Germany, and Italy to name a few of the countries. Beyond her contributions to USAGSO, Cynthia is known for her incredible heart and genuine kindness. Her passion for helping others is evident in everything she does, from mentoring young members, particularly, my daughters, to stepping up wherever she is needed most. Her ability to inspire and lead by example is a testament to her character and dedication to the values of our organization. It is with great admiration and respect that I submit this nomination, confident that Cynthia embodies the true spirit of USAGSO and deserves to be recognized for her lifelong contributions.

Cynthia has consistently demonstrated her tireless dedication to the growth and enrichment of our members.

Julie Baker

Julie is a dedicated and organized volunteer. She leads the Girl Scout Juniors in an exemplary fashion and has a great relationship with them. Parental feedback is great as her meetings are interactive and fun. We all appreciate her efforts and commitment, especially as she has no personal interest or benefit with Girl Scouts-her children are all away studying. Thank you so much Julie!

She leads the Girl Scout Juniors in an exemplary fashion and has a great relationship with them.

Kristin Miller

Kristin has served as a troop leader for both Girl Scout Daisies and Brownies, along with her daughters, Ember and Nova. She proudly shares her personal stories of being a Girl Scout as a young girl, always smiles when talking about the Girl Scouts and ensures that earning petals/badges is fun for her girls. Kristin jumped into utilizing the new Volunteer Toolkit content successfully this year with the Daisies and will be sharing her positive experience using the new resources at our year-end leader meeting. Although she started out this year with the Daisies, when our Brownie leader "PCS'd" (moved stateside), she took over the Brownies so they could finish up the year by earning the Outdoor Adventurer badge. Our community including parents, Girl Scouts, and leaders are very thankful for the time Kristin Miller dedicates to our organization.

She proudly shares her personal stories of being a Girl Scout as a young girl, always smiling when talking about Girl Scouts.

Mary Faulk

Mary Faulk has been a tireless volunteer in Amman, Jordan for the last three years. She leads multiple troops in a year. She coordinates all leaders. She orders all our badges to ensure smooth delivery overseas. She tracks admin needs and training for leaders. She organizes events for all Girl Scouts - like camping trips, World Thinking Day and the Pinewood Derby with Boy Scouts. Girl Scouts is a key focus of her every day, and we appreciate all she does for us.

Girl Scouts is a key focus of her every day, and we appreciate all she does for us.

Emiko Ray

Girl Scout Cadette leader Emiko Ray, known to us as Emi, developed fundraising opportunities for the OC and financial literacy exposure for the Girl Scouts in Riyadh. Emi facilitated creative ideas for money-making games and goods, which the girls could create and operate. Emi also led our Girl Scout Cadette troop as they successfully achieved their Girl Scout Silver Award to aid rescued animals. She empowers the girls to make the world a better place!

Emi empowers the girls to make the world a better place!

Melanie Ham and Claire O'Shannessy

Melanie Ham, Shanghai's Service Chair, put together a program for Shanghai Girl Scouts to join a Read-a-thon raising money for underprivileged students. The goal was to pay one girl’s school fees for the year. The goal was reached and money is still coming in. We’re so excited to be able to contribute back to our community in this way!

Claire’s Girl Scout Cadette troop was essential in marketing the program to Girl Scouts across Shanghai. They put together a video explaining the program to all Shanghai Girl Scouts and the Cadettes were an incredible force in reading and fundraising.

Melanie and Claire put together a successful Read-a-thon for Girl Scouts in Shanghai.

Jessica Pabon

We’d like to recognize Jessica Pabon for her tremendous efforts in supporting Girl Scouts in Yokosuka. As the event coordinator, troop leader for a Girl Scout Senior/Cadette troop and a mentor for our new troop leaders, Jessica did it all this year!

Upon arriving in Yokosuka, Jessica immediately stepped into a position on our OCMT to help plan some of the most important events for our community, like the holiday party and Cookie Rally, to name a few. As a troop leader, she did an outstanding job leading our soon-to-be young adults during a very crucial stage in their lives. She found innovative ways for them to remain engaged and excited to be Girl Scouts. Going above and beyond, Jessica took time to mentor our new troop leaders, thus allowing the continued success for the entire Yokosuka Girl Scouts. She has been a valuable individual to our community, and we are happy to have her on board.

Jessica goes above and beyondbenefitting our whole Yokosuka Girl Scout community.

Erin Waite and Michelle Henrichson

We’d like to recognize Erin Waite and Michelle Henrichson for their outstanding leadership and mentoring of their Girl Scout Junior Troop. Since arriving in Yokosuka last year, both ladies hit the ground running by volunteering to lead a Girl Scout Junior troop, organizing a baked goods drive for single sailors during the holidays and spearheading efforts for a base-wide clean up. They are are a dynamic duo whose energy is infectious. Our Girl Scout Juniors couldn’t ask for better role models to exemplify the Girl Scout values.

They are are a dynamic duo whose energy is infectious.

Lara Van Dercreek

We’d like to recognize Lara Van Dercreek for her exceptional leadership in guiding her Girl Scout Brownie troop to a wonderful and memory-filled year. Laura is truly an inspirational person who is an outstanding mentor for our Girl Scouts. Through her continuously selfless and tireless efforts, Laura’s Girl Scouts have learned valuable life skills and have exemplified the Girl Scout Law. We are lucky to count Laura among our amazing leaders here in Yokosuka.

Laura is truly an inspirational person who is an outstanding mentor for our Girl Scouts.

Elaine Chan

Elaine is a passionate, organized, fun-loving and superb leader to our 87 Daisies across 11 troops. This year, she planned amazing events for our little ones, including a Fall Scavenger Hunt where they earned their EcoLearner and Outdoor Art Maker badges, a sleepover movie night and a Daisy camp later this year. On top of that she has singlehandedly organized one of the most popular all Girl Scouts OC events during Christmas called "The Stanley Xmas Fete". She also worked with older girls to ensure they have leadership opportunities within the events to work with younger Girl Scouts. Additionally, Elaine served as the OCC for the Hong Kong community for 4 years, helping all troops and girls in Hong Kong have an incredible Girl Scout experience.

We are so fortunate to have Elaine as part of our Girl Scout community.

Heather Kaye

As the first-ever Shanghai OCMT Training Chair Heather Kaye has taken the city by storm! Already this school year, she has trained over 50 troop leaders in safety/troop finance/meeting management, assisted 10 new troops in kicking off their year and worked diligently and passionately with three international schools to help rejuvenate their Girl Scout programs. Heather's impact in the Shanghai Girl Scout community will be felt for years to come.

Heather's impact in the Shanghai Girl Scout community will be felt for years to come.

Stacey Graves

Shout out to Ms. Stacey Graves, Girl Scout Daisy Troop 507 Naval Base Guam leader. Ms. Stacey helped build character and taught my daughter a lot of valuable lessons, such as being a sister to to every Girl Scout. She has taken the troop on many informative trips to sites around Guam. The most memorable one was when we placed flags on the graves of fallen soldiers for Memorial Day. Thank you for being a part of my daughter’s life!

Ms. Stacey helped build character and taught my daughter a lot of valuable lessons, such as being a sister to to every Girl Scout.

Anita Chen Clark

Last year, Anita took on outstanding leadership and filled in the shoes of our former chair doing everything from the parent orientation to organizing events.

Thank you Anita for your outstanding leadership in your Girl Scout community.

Marrakesh Arbuckle

When I started volunteering with USAGSO, Marrakesh is the one who introduced me to all the things in the world of Girl Scouts. She has worked really hard, doing a great job leading troops for many years.

Marrakesh has been one of our hardworking troop leaders for many years.

Heather Siegel

Heather has worked tirelessly to get our group super organized, energized, and enjoying being Girl Scout leaders. She’s worked with other leaders to ensure that the girls are happy and amazing Girl Scouts. She always listens with a warm smile on her face. We are so fortunate to have her.

Heather is always ready to listen, with a warm smile on her face.

Ulrike Gemmer

Ulrike is the lynchpin of Chisinau Girl Scout Troop 25801. Her leadership of this multi-level troop of Daisies, Brownies, and Juniors has kept the troop alive and well. Ulrike leads by example and shows the girls how to be an energetic and active leader. She is able to plan and execute activities for three levels, while still being very active in other areas of the community. This Girl Scout year would not have been possible without her dedication and enthusiasm.

Ulrike is the lynchpin of Chisinau Girl Scout Troop 25801.

Melissa Hall

Melissa is the secret to our success. She dedicates countless hours to ensuring our organization is a success, and she truly loves Girl Scouts and sharing the experience with every girl. She always goes above and beyond to make sure our neighborhood provides the best Girl Scout experience to our girls. She serves as a co-Leader for two troops, as well as Registrar, and fills in gaps wherever needed, including the Neighborhood Cookie Manager position. She is completely dependable and always gives 110% in everything she does. Simply put, she is amazing!

She truly loves Girl Scouts and sharing the experience with every girl.

Kaye Guiste

Kaye has been a troop leader for over two years. She is constantly making sure her troop is doing fun and exciting activities. She participates in whole council events, but also in events with the Japanese sister troops as well. Kaye is a role model for the girls in her troop and leaves a positive and lasting impression on them. She brings joy to Girl Scouting, and I'm glad to call her a fellow leader.

Kaye is a role model for the girls in her troop and leaves a positive and lasting impression on them.

Ashley Del Rosario

There's so many great things to say about her performance as a troop leader but the most important of all is that she is always looking for ways to make the meetings fun for the girls. She is an amazing leader- a leader that always gives the extra mile. I'm sure the girls from Girl Scout Troop 72 Kaiserslautern would agree too!

Ashley is an amazing leadera leader that always gives the extra mile.

Kristina Lachaga

Kristina Lachaga is a proud Lifetime Member of Girl Scouts and outstanding program partner/volunteer for various Girl Scout councils, including USA Girl Scouts Overseas.

In her role with USAGSO, Kristina has hosted our largest virtual programs, serving more than 1,000 girls over the last two years. Here are a few details on these programs:

- She hosted the USAGSO Cookie Rallies in both 2021 and 2022.

- She hosted the Girl Scout World Tour in 2021 and plans to host again in 2022.

- She hosted a simple but impactful service program last year that saw Girl Scouts writing letters for elderly people, homebound due to COVID. The program aligned with one of GSUSA's National Service Project and gave girls an opportunity to make the world a better place during difficult times.

- In order to get girls excited for the 2022 Winter Olympics and celebrate National Girls and Women in Sports Day, she hosted an 'Opening Ceremony,' that introduced Girl Scouts to amazing female athletes!

She also partners with Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia on their annual Quest Fest program. (Of which many USAGSO members participated!) She performed in-person at several Cookie Rallies hosted by Girl Scouts, Hornets' Nest Council in Charlotte, NC. And, even hosted Girls Got Talent at GIRL 2020 (GSUSA's movement-wide convention/triennial conference) in Columbus, Ohio.

As evidenced by the list above, Kristina is an amazing friend to USA Girl Scouts Overseas.

Eva Sanchez

Eva plans and leads every meeting while serving as an active duty soldier. She takes the girls on great trips. She selflessly ensures that girls without transportation get to each meeting. She really is the epitome of a kind-hearted Girl Scout leader.

Eva plans and leads every meeting while serving as an active duty soldier.

Ari’Anna GoldenJamison

As a father, few moments in life compare to the joy of witnessing your daughter grow into her own lightespecially when that growth is shaped by resilience, courage and community. My daughter, Ari’Anna Golden-Jamison, is one of those rare young girls whose spirit has not only endured the challenge of adapting to a new culture abroad, but has truly thrived in it, thanks in large part to the unwavering support and structure of USA Girl Scouts Overseas. When she first relocated overseas with her mother, the transition wasn’t easy. Like many children facing change, Ari’Anna encountered cultural differences, unfamiliar routines, and even some painful experiences with bullying. But Girl Scouts became her anchor- a steady and empowering force. Through troop meetings, badge work, and friendships with girls walking a similar path, she found not only her footing, but her confidence. She began using her voice as a leader in her school community, standing up for others and helping girls find their strength, just as she found hers. Ari’Anna also continued growing her business, My Golden ESTEAM, an affirmation-centered brand focused on building girls’ self-esteem through STEAM. What began as a personal tool for resilience became something she shared with others- using her experiences to encourage girls both in and out of Girl Scouts. Now, she’s in the process of designing her own website and building an app, applying tech skills she’s learned along the way. As she travels, she connects with girls from around the world, proudly telling them about Girl Scouts and the powerful journey it’s taken her on. I’m so proud of the young woman she’s becoming and excited for what’s still ahead.

Her story is a living testament to what it means to be a global Girl Scout- resilient, service-driven and full of GOLDEN purpose.

Susana (Suzie) Lopez Fernandez

Suzie joined the Madrid OC about a decade ago, as the parent of a Girl Scout Daisy and dove headfirst into volunteering with our OCMT. In practically no time, she singlehandedly took on the OCC role, and hasn't stopped. She continues to lead troops, and she remains a co-OCC because it is so important to her that the Girl Scout mission thrive for our girls. She has had a tremendous impact on our OC and has also spearheaded partnerships and collaborations with other OCs, namely Paris and Rota, with OC-wide visits to both. What's more, she regularly plays the role of emcee for our OC-wide events and is the face of our OCMT. She has become a true pillar of our Overseas Community and the backbone of our OC, and I firmly believe that she is the main reason we continue to grow, even after the hit we took with the pandemic.

She has had a tremendous impact on our OC and has also spearheaded partnerships and collaborations with other OCs.

Ursula Werner

When I joined the Madrid OC as a volunteer back in 2011-12, I had no volunteer experience with the organization, and I was frankly a little bit lost. But then our OCMT organized a workshop for us to learn about leading the Girl Scout Leadership Experience. And who was it that they brought from abroad to teach us for the weekend, in the old NATO facilities outside of Madrid? Ursula, of course!

I can't quantify or qualify the impact Ursula has had on our Overseas Community as a result of that training. Since then, we have had other proper training sessions, but for me, that workshop with Ursula was fundamental and wonderful. I love that she's still active and supporting Girl Scouts Overseas!

I can't quantify or qualify the impact Ursula has had on our Overseas Community.

Dawna Horton

Dawna was our Member Experience Manager for a few years and was a phenomenal point of contact for us in the Madrid OC. She was empathetic and helpful, and we really valued her support. She also led the USAGSO Gold Award Committee, where I volunteered for a few years, and it was wonderful to know she was there for us. Her impact on Girl Scouts Overseas - even just from my perspective - was one of positive and proactive engagement and was very much appreciated.

Her impact on Girl Scouts Overseas was one of positive and proactive engagement.

Christine Hannon and Angel Padrino-Sanchez

Sometimes a person has an indelible impact on a community, even when they only spend a short time with that community. Christine and Angel are two of those people. While volunteering as troop leaders in the Madrid OC, they also led/organized the Girls in Aviation Day event in Madrid in 2018 and 2019, providing the girls from our OC (as well as other girls from around the Madrid region) an incredible experience and perspective of the different components of aviation. What a treat!

Sometimes

a person has an indelible impact on a community, even when they only spend a short time with that community.

Christine and Angel are two of those people.

Stall Catchers –

Pietro Michelucci

Thanks to our long-standing partnership with Stall Catchers, championed by Pietro Michelucci, hundreds of Girl Scouts Overseas have had the chance to contribute to cutting edge Alzheimer's Disease research. Each November, Girl Scouts all around the world become citizen scientists while playing Stall Catchers, an online game where players view movies from the brains of mice and try to identify vessels as flowing or stalled.

In November 2024, 46 Girl Scouts in 10 countries on four continents made a huge impact on Alzheimer's research during our 3 annual Catch-A-Thon. In total, we accomplished eight days and 13 hours of lab-equivalent research. We recently joined forces with Stall Catchers again in April to celebrate Citizen Science Month and help contribute to Sci-Starter’s One Million Acts of Science. Stay tuned for results from that effort!

Pietro has given hundreds of Girl Scouts Overseas the chance to contribute to cutting edge Alzheimer's Disease research.

Silvia Hughes, Rachel Martinez & Amaya Davis

In 1925, barnstormer John Paul Riddle met entrepreneur T. Higbee Embry, and together, they formed the Embry-Riddle Company to teach the adventurous to fly. How cool is it that USA Girl Scouts Overseas shares a centennial with such a pivotal program partner?!?

Today, Embry-Riddle offers a first-rate education to recent high school graduates, working adults, active service members, veterans, classroom students and online learners. They also partner with USA Girl Scouts Overseas, every year in April to celebrate Month of the Military Child through an online program. In recent years, this online program has expanded into the in-person space, with Embry Riddle campuses in Europe and Asia hosting watch parties for hundreds of Girl Scouts Overseas.

While many people at Embry Riddle support this partnership, Silvia, Rachel, and Amaya are three of the biggest champions of this annual program!

While

many people at Embry Riddle support this partnership, Silvia, Rachel and Amaya are three of our biggest champions.

Fiona Van Stout and Julian Stout

In Madrid, Spain, an Overseas Community where the vast majority of the adult volunteers were parents, the arrival of Fiona and Julian was a novelty, and a clear indicator that Girl Scouts (both the organization and the girls themselves) thrive when also led by volunteers who are closer in age to them. Over the course of several years, they brought an energy to our OC that we strive to reach as a general rule, and they are likely the main reason why we continue to make a concerted effort to recruit Girl Scout young alumnae to help in leading our troops.

Over the course of several years, they brought an energy to our OC that we strive to reach as a general rule.

Carmen Rodriguez Cuenca and Esther

Ortega Kluger

Carmen and Esther were peer Girl Scouts in the Madrid OC, and eventually bridged together to adults in 2021, then becoming Lifetime Girl Scouts. While they were still girl members, and in particular during the COVID-19 pandemic, they contributed to both live and recorded USAGSO programming. For instance, they appeared in Girl Scouts at Home contents, such as the Ambassadors for Democracy Badge video. And of course, locally, they made positive impacts on their communities. They are now working towards their university degrees, each in a different country. We are so proud of them!

Locally, these girls made positive impacts on their communities.

Shelley Lin

For four years, Shelley served as the Overseas Committee Chair for Taipei Girl Scouts, bringing her enthusiasm and passion for Girl Scouts to Taipei American School. She helped her community plan camping trips, highest awards, and recruitment events. Together with her team, she has created and fostered a warm, welcoming and inclusive environment for families throughout Taipei, including those who just come to visit. When I traveled to Taipei in March of 2024, she was kind enough to invite me and several other visiting Girl Scouts on their community's trip to American Institute of Taiwan for a tour and Q&A with some of the incredible women who work there. After four years as OCC, Shelley decided their community needed new perspective and graciously stepped down to let a new OCC take over. She has stayed active in her community, continuing as a member of the OCMT to advise on engaging older Girl Scouts as a Cadette troop leader. Shelley also took her troop of 13 Cadettes to Okinawa for a camping trip and sought opportunities to engage with local Girl Scouts while there, including trying MREs! She is the embodiment of being a sister to every Girl Scout, and it has been an absolute pleasure to work with her and to know her.

She is the embodiment of being a sister to every Girl Scout.

Belen Gonzalo Centeno

Belen was an active girl member of the Madrid OC, starting at a very young age, and is still active, two years after graduating and becoming a Lifetime Member. She became a Gold Award Girl Scout, with a project focused on increasing awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding eating disorders. What's more, she is now a university student and a young adult volunteer and will be working as a camp counselor at Girl Scout camp in Germany this coming summer. She is among those members who has developed a lasting fondness for the organization and who find ways to continue to contribute to it. What a role model!

She is among those members who has developed a lasting fondness for the organization.

Carol Youssif

USAGSO is so lucky to have a volunteer like Carol. As a volunteer with Taipei Girl Scouts, she has taken the lead on creating exciting and engaging social media posts that have helped increase visibility of their community and show off the amazing things their troops are doing. Carol has also shared her time as an OVP, redesigning several Girl Scout leadership programs, like the Volunteer in Training and Program Aide pins. She has traveled to multiple locations including Hong Kong and Okinawa to help lead these programs for Girl Scouts, encouraging them to take on leadership roles in their communities. She also helped plan and execute our volunteer training retreats, happily traveling to Japan to lead training sessions with volunteers from across the West Pacific region. Carol also created our first-ever summer reading program, bringing her passion for books, reading, and libraries to USAGSO. Her commitment to Girl Scouts extends beyond USAGSO. She spends summers in Minnesota where her daughter participates with a stateside council there, ensuring that she has a truly global Girl Scout experience. USAGSO is incredibly lucky to have Carol on our team!

Her commitment to Girl Scouts extends beyond USAGSO, and we are lucky to have her on our team.

Virginia Martinez

I was lucky enough to work with Virginia for two years as the OCC for Camp Courtney Girl Scouts in Okinawa. Virginia helped her community grow exponentially over the course of her time here, growing her small community from a couple dozen to nearly 70 Girl Scouts. She was a staple at every Overseas Update call, coming with questions that helped her plan ahead for her community. She graciously invited me each year to their volunteer brunch, where she honored her volunteers with thoughtful gifts and awards to show her appreciation for their hard work and dedication. It was humbling and deeply touching to see the strong team she had built and the extra mile she went to encourage and support them. These actions set the example for behavior not only among the volunteers in her community, but also the Girl Scouts she came into contact with. She cares deeply for the Girl Scout program and everything that her community does, and her legacy in Okinawa is one of positivity, inclusivity, and teamwork.

She has built a strong team in her community and goes the extra mile to encourage and support them.

Aaminah

Aaminah is a new Girl Scout Brownies in Saudi Arabia. As part of her Journey- The World of Girls badge, she noticed a problem in her communitythe tennis court had cracks that were causing kids to trip and get injured. Aaminah wrote an application about the issue, collected signatures from her neighbors and submitted it to the management. The management took action and fixed the tennis court.

Aaminah used her Girl Scout Journey to make a difference in her community.

Fakiha Umair Malik

Fakiha is working on her Journey: The World of Girls badge. She noticed that people in her building were throwing trash in the parking lot, making the place dirty. She designed a flyer on Canva and distributed it throughout the building with a message to keep the parking area clean. After two days, she noticed that everyone was taking care of it. Now, the parking area is clean.

Fakiha is making a difference in her community by taking action.

Janet Surrett

Janet Surrett is a Lifetime Girl Scout with a long resume of volunteer service and participation. She has been involved stateside with Girl Scouts, as well as serving in five different OCMTs including Harrogate, Stuttgart, Ankara, Yongsan, and Humphreys. She served as Registrar for Camp Humphreys from 2020 to 2022 and maintained at least 130 Girl Scouts per year with a distribution over 13-14 troops Daisy to Senior/Ambassador. She has been a Gold Award Advisor for four Ambassadors- an unbelievably impressive number of Gold Awards from a troop of no more than eight active girls per year. She has supported, assisted, and chaperoned troop trips to Guam and JeJu island and has been an integral part of Girl Scout events for her community.

Janet is simply an incredible OCC, responsible for record-breaking numbers, exciting program and training opportunities for members and creating an incredibly close-knit and supportive community.

Janet is known as a “recruitment powerhouse” in South Korea.

Clara Guillen-Merino

Clara was the OCC for the Madrid OC when my daughter and I joined during the 2011-2012 membership year. In fact, she was the first person we met, and the person who helped us with our onboarding. At that point, I had absolutely no clue of the kind of work she was putting into running the OC smoothly, and frankly, it wasn't until many years after she and her family had PCSed that I realized it. This was because she was the face of the Madrid OC, and from what I understand, she was the OCMT itself. As far as I know, she has been back stateside for a number of years now, but we must not forget the enormous impact she had on USAGSO, by successfully leading our OC. Moreover, I will always be thankful to her for the role she played in starting my own Girl Scout experience as an adult volunteer.

I will always be thankful to her for the role she played in starting my own Girl Scout experience as an adult volunteer.

Director Lee

Director Lee has been a crucial part in joining Korean Girl Scouts and USAGSO Daegu Troop 82100 together. She is always full of enthusiasm and positive energy that makes every event our troops do together magical! She has been a crucial part in bringing our cultures together and helping our Girl Scouts create lasting memories!

She has been a crucial part in bringing our cultures together and helping our Girl Scouts create lasting memories!

Rachel Kluger

Over the past 12+ years, Rachel has shown ongoing and growing dedication to the Girl Scout Movement. She started out as a local toop leader in the Madrid, Spain, Overseas Community and branched out from there. For many years, she has been an OCMT member, most notably and recently being a co-OCC. She usually performs more support-related, background roles and reliably and regularly keeps the rest of our OC volunteers apprised of USAGSO goings-on. Each year, she organizes events for the entire OC, such as trips to the ONCE guide dog training center or the ESAC space astronomy center. She liaisons and maintains partnerships with local groups, like the Guías de Torrelodones, or foreign partners, like Girl Scout troops and other WAGGGS units around the world. She works with prospective Gold Award Girl Scouts, both locally in Madrid and through her participation on the USAGSO Gold Award Committee. At the 2023 NCS in Orlando, she advocated for the Madrid OC in particular, and for USAGSO in general, as a National Council Delegate representing USAGSO, and she is eager to try to continue in that role.

Rachel has shown ongoing and growing dedication to the Girl Scout Movement.

Diana Ringquist

During the last decade Diana has worked directly with a number of small communities, bringing Girl Scouting to girls in places like Nigeria and Angola, as well as the much larger Stuttgart, Germany community. She has led troops in Nigeria, Stuttgart and Angola within USAGSO, as well as in Virginia. She was OCC in Nigeria, as well as serving on that OCMT in other roles (registrar, trainer, etc). In Stuttgart, Diana also served as a Silver Award mentor, on the Higher Awards Committee and as a community equipment manager. As a OVP, Diana is always a voice of reason, support and cheer.

As a OVP, Diana is always a voice of reason, support and cheer.

Desiree Blickens

Desiree Blickens has served in Girl Scouting for over 20 years. Desiree spent 13 years as a Girl Scout and is now serving as an adult in various volunteer roles. Desiree is a Base Service Unit Manager, a leader and holds positions in aiding with adult training. Desiree has made a lasting impression with her multiple roles, not only on the girls she serves, but as well as the adults she leads. Desiree is the ultimate Girl Scout from being friendly, helpful, caring, considerate and always a sister to each and every one of us. I’ve never seen someone dedicate so much time and effort into Girl Scouting as Desiree has and continues to do on a daily basis. Desiree’s heart is 100 percent in Girl Scouts and will always be.

Desiree has made a lasting impression with her multiple roles.