Girl Scout cookies aren't the only powerhouse part of GS USA!
Anna Maria Chávez, CEO of Girl Scouts of the USA, was named one of the World's 50 Greatest Leaders by Fortune magazine in its third-annual ranking of leaders in business, government, philanthropy, and the arts.
Coming in at number 24, the leader of the national Girl Scout organization was cited for her vision and creativity in working to revitalize the Girl Scout brand for a new century, including debuting new badges in STEM and financial literacy; initiatives such as Digital Cookie, the first national digital platform for the iconic Girl Scout Cookie Program, which provides girls a fun, safe, interactive space to sell cookies; and dynamic collaborations with influential leaders like First Lady Michelle Obama.
To determine the list, Fortune's editorial staff casts a wide net, seeking outstanding leaders in all sectors of society worldwide. Additionally, Fortune solicits nominations from a panel of more than 20 outside experts on leadership, drawn from top business schools and the nonprofit world. The resulting list recognizes those who are inspiring others to act, to follow them on a worthy quest, and have shown staying power.
"I am extremely honored and humbled to be recognized by Fortune magazine, and to be included among such illustrious honorees," said Ms. Chávez. "The truth is, effective leadership derives first and foremost from a boundless passion for what one does—and I am truly energized and inspired by working every day on behalf of the nearly 2 million girls that make up our organization. As the preeminent leadership development organization for girls, their needs, hopes, and aspirations are what drive us forward. So I proudly share this honor with every Girl Scout across the country, as they represent tremendous leadership potential for our future."
The innovative reforms and updates Ms. Chávez has instituted at Girl Scouts, now in its second century of service to girls, are poised to further strengthen the organization as it continues to develop tomorrow's leaders. Resolute as ever in its mission, Girl Scouts instills girls with the courage, confidence, and character needed to make the world a better place.
To join Girl Scouts or learn more about volunteering, please visit www.girlscouts.org/join.