Girl Scouts of the USA Introduces New Board Leadership with Telva McGruder at the Helm
On July 23, 2026, the Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) held its 58th National Council Session in Washington, DC, where the organization revealed its newly elected National Board of Directors for the 2026–2029 term. The session brought nearly 1,000 delegates together to address pivotal matters concerning the Girl Scout Movement.
Leading this new board is Telva McGruder, who has held various leadership roles within General Motors. As an executive director of global body manufacturing engineering, McGruder's background is significant. Besides her corporate accolades, she is also a lifetime member of GSUSA and previously served as both a National Board member and a council board chair. In her acceptance speech, McGruder expressed her gratitude for the honor of leading the board, emphasizing the transformative power of the Girl Scout Movement for girls and communities alike. "I have witnessed firsthand the remarkable opportunities this Movement offers girls to tap into their power, pursue their ambitions, and transform their communities," she stated. Her focus will be on accelerating the impact of Girl Scouts and inspiring confidence in the future leaders of our society.
The newly elected National Board comprises 31 members, each bringing diverse skills, experiences, and perspectives vital for advancing GSUSA's mission. Notably, 30% of these members have previously been chairpersons of local Girl Scout councils, with 70% having a personal connection to Girl Scouting as alumni or through family and friends. This blend of backgrounds is expected to foster a fresh and dynamic approach to problem-solving and visionary leadership in the organization.
Bonnie Barczykowski, CEO of GSUSA, expressed gratitude toward the outgoing board members for their dedication, acknowledging their efforts to strengthen the organization. In her comments, Barczykowski highlighted her enthusiasm for collaborating with McGruder and the new board members throughout their triennial term. The collective experience and dedication of this new leadership team are anticipated to propel Girl Scouts into a thrilling new chapter of growth and impact.
The responsibilities of GSUSA's National Board include overseeing the governance and legal compliance aspects of the organization. Alongside members of the board, three non-board members were also appointed to the National Board Development Committee to further support the board's mission and to prepare for any future vacancies.
McGruder's leadership dawns at a time when the Girl Scout Movement strives to adapt to the evolving needs of today’s girls and families. The board aims to enhance GSUSA's outreach and deepen its impact across communities nationwide. With initiatives that explore various interests such as STEM, outdoor activities, and civic engagement, GSUSA continues to cultivate confidence and resilience in young girls.
With strong support from millions of alumni and a robust network of adult volunteers, Girl Scouts are empowered to lead and drive change in their communities. By participating in comprehensive programs and activities across the country, these girls uncover their strengths and gain hands-on knowledge that will prove invaluable later in life.
In her closing remarks, McGruder encouraged everyone to join or support the Girl Scouts, whether through volunteering or donations, reinforcing the motto that together, we can make a positive impact in the lives of girls everywhere. This new leadership team embarks on the challenge of nurturing the next generation of female leaders, combining their varied experiences and the foundational principles of Girl Scouting for a brighter future.
To learn more about joining, supporting, or reconnecting with the Girl Scouts, visit their official website at www.girlscouts.org.
Leading this new board is Telva McGruder, who has held various leadership roles within General Motors. As an executive director of global body manufacturing engineering, McGruder's background is significant. Besides her corporate accolades, she is also a lifetime member of GSUSA and previously served as both a National Board member and a council board chair. In her acceptance speech, McGruder expressed her gratitude for the honor of leading the board, emphasizing the transformative power of the Girl Scout Movement for girls and communities alike. "I have witnessed firsthand the remarkable opportunities this Movement offers girls to tap into their power, pursue their ambitions, and transform their communities," she stated. Her focus will be on accelerating the impact of Girl Scouts and inspiring confidence in the future leaders of our society.
The newly elected National Board comprises 31 members, each bringing diverse skills, experiences, and perspectives vital for advancing GSUSA's mission. Notably, 30% of these members have previously been chairpersons of local Girl Scout councils, with 70% having a personal connection to Girl Scouting as alumni or through family and friends. This blend of backgrounds is expected to foster a fresh and dynamic approach to problem-solving and visionary leadership in the organization.
Bonnie Barczykowski, CEO of GSUSA, expressed gratitude toward the outgoing board members for their dedication, acknowledging their efforts to strengthen the organization. In her comments, Barczykowski highlighted her enthusiasm for collaborating with McGruder and the new board members throughout their triennial term. The collective experience and dedication of this new leadership team are anticipated to propel Girl Scouts into a thrilling new chapter of growth and impact.
The responsibilities of GSUSA's National Board include overseeing the governance and legal compliance aspects of the organization. Alongside members of the board, three non-board members were also appointed to the National Board Development Committee to further support the board's mission and to prepare for any future vacancies.
McGruder's leadership dawns at a time when the Girl Scout Movement strives to adapt to the evolving needs of today’s girls and families. The board aims to enhance GSUSA's outreach and deepen its impact across communities nationwide. With initiatives that explore various interests such as STEM, outdoor activities, and civic engagement, GSUSA continues to cultivate confidence and resilience in young girls.
With strong support from millions of alumni and a robust network of adult volunteers, Girl Scouts are empowered to lead and drive change in their communities. By participating in comprehensive programs and activities across the country, these girls uncover their strengths and gain hands-on knowledge that will prove invaluable later in life.
In her closing remarks, McGruder encouraged everyone to join or support the Girl Scouts, whether through volunteering or donations, reinforcing the motto that together, we can make a positive impact in the lives of girls everywhere. This new leadership team embarks on the challenge of nurturing the next generation of female leaders, combining their varied experiences and the foundational principles of Girl Scouting for a brighter future.
To learn more about joining, supporting, or reconnecting with the Girl Scouts, visit their official website at www.girlscouts.org.
Topics People & Culture）
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