Celebrating the Changemakers: Honoring Leadership & Courage
In recognition of Women's History Month, Girl Scouts River Valleys proudly presents the 2025 Changemakers honorees—eight exceptional individuals who embody the virtues the organization nurtures in young girls every day. This year's honorees exemplify Courage, Confidence, Character, and Curiosity, demonstrating authentic and impactful leadership.
The 2025 Changemakers Honorees
This year's honorees include adults and youth who stand out within their communities as leaders. Let's explore who these remarkable Changemakers are:
Courage
The category of Courage highlights individuals who bravely advocate for themselves and others:
- Sheletta Brundidge – A passionate media advocate, Sheletta elevates underrepresented voices and inspires many to take bold action. Her efforts serve as a guiding light for those seeking to facilitate meaningful change.
- Yailen Cazales Roldan (youth) – With a fervent love for history and law, Yailen is a dedicated advocate for justice. Through her accomplishments in mock trial and music, she faces every challenge with unwavering courage.
Confidence
Confidence is key in leadership, and these honorees embody that trait:
- Carla Vernón – As a trailblazer at The Honest Company, Carla’s steadfast confidence paves the way for women of color in leadership roles, proving that conviction can reshape corporate spaces.
- Julia Hidalgo-Salazar (youth) – Julia shines as a leader, from her impressive cookie sales to her dedication to community service. Her adventurous spirit drives her to embrace opportunities that inspire and uplift others.
Character
Strong character is essential for ethical leadership, represented by these honorees:
- Kelly McQueen – A passionate advocate for ethical practices at PNC, Kelly demonstrates the power of integrity in finance and community service.
- Savannah Blair (youth) – A committed Girl Scout, Savannah embodies integrity through mentoring and community involvement, emphasizing the significance of nurturing future generations.
Curiosity
The thirst for knowledge fuels these Changemakers:
- DeAnna Cummings – An influential figure in the arts, DeAnna advocates for creative equity, inspiring innovation and transformation through her curiosity and dedication.
- Megan Baker (youth) – Driven by an inquisitive nature, Megan seeks knowledge and meaningful connections through leadership roles and storytelling.
According to Marisa C. Williams, CEO of Girl Scouts River Valleys, "These women redefine their spaces and empower others simply by being true to themselves. Their impact resonates deeply, not only in their fields but also within their communities." The commitment exhibited by these leaders is a source of inspiration that illuminates the path for others.
Looking Forward: Celebrate Changemakers Breakfast
The upcoming Celebrate Changemakers Breakfast will serve as a platform to recognize these leaders' significant contributions. Set to honor both current leaders and the emerging youth cohort, the event underlines the dedication to shaping the future.
About Girl Scouts River Valleys
Girl Scouts River Valleys champions more than 16,500 girls across several states, offering transformative experiences that encourage girls to be bold. With programs spanning STEM, entrepreneurship, and outdoor adventures, Girl Scouts cultivate the skills necessary for effective leadership, inspiring all participants to embrace courage, confidence, and character.
Contact Information
MEDIA CONTACT:
Kristen Neurer, Vice President of Member Engagement
Girl Scouts River Valleys
651-280-8009
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the 2025 Changemakers honorees?
The 2025 Changemakers honorees include eight individuals, both adults and youth, who exemplify courage, confidence, character, and curiosity.
What is the purpose of the Celebrate Changemakers Breakfast?
The breakfast event aims to recognize the contributions of the honorees and celebrate the youth leaders paving the way for future generations.
How does Girl Scouts River Valleys support girls?
Girl Scouts River Valleys supports girls through various programs fostering leadership skills in areas like STEM, entrepreneurship, and community service.
What qualities do the honorees represent?
The honorees represent key qualities such as courage, confidence, character, and curiosity, demonstrating impactful leadership in their communities.
Who is the CEO of Girl Scouts River Valleys?
The CEO of Girl Scouts River Valleys is Marisa C. Williams, who advocates for empowering individuals through authentic leadership.
