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Community Corner

More than 160 Celebrate at Woman of Merit

Approximately 160 Girl Scout supporters, friends, and family celebrated the 20th Anniversary of the Woman of Merit benefit dinner at the Stamford Hilton on Thursday, September 12.

 

Celebrating partnerships that make the world a better place, Girl Scouts of Connecticut recognized the accomplishments and achievements of IBM’s Chief Information Officer, Jeanette Horan. Once a Girl Guide herself in the United Kingdom, Ms. Horan’s extraordinary accomplishments in the technology services field, as well as her commitment to her community, make her an exceptional role model for Girl Scouts across the state. Horan spoke on her personal connection to Girl Scouting and the importance of involving girls in the science and technology fields.

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“I have a strong connection to Girl Scouts and Girl Guides,” Horan said. “And, IBM and Girl Scouts have a lot in common – we both aim to make the world a better place. We have to change the equation and involve girls in the STEM fields. Getting girls involved in STEM early is the key to changing this equation.”

The Woman of Merit award recognizes leaders who demonstrate the Girl Scout values of leadership, personal achievement, and service to the community. It is given in honor of Alice Pattison Merritt, an extraordinary public leader who became the first woman elected to the Connecticut Senate and who was instrumental in bringing Girl Scouting to girls in Connecticut.

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“Last night’s incredible evening was a testament to the support we have with our friends and members for our girls,” said Mary Barneby, CEO, Girl Scouts of Connecticut. “We were thrilled to honor Jeanette Horan as an exemplary role model for our girls with dreams to achieve in technology. With the outstanding attendance and funds raised, we are able to tell more girls that yes – we are behind you and we are here for you!”

 

The event was supported by generous sponsors, including: Webster Bank, Merrill Lynch, Aetna Foundation, Pitney Bowes, Thomson Reuters, Mary Barneby, Sheryl Sleeva, Mutual of America, Siracusa Moving & Storage, Morgan Stanley, Bankwell, Hartford Steam Boiler Inspection & Insurance Company; and a number of in-kind sponsors.

 

Net proceeds from the dinner will support programming that helps girls in grades K - 12 bring out the best in themselves and their communities. The Girl Scout Leadership Experience offers girls the lifetime skills they need to discover their personal best; connect with others to build healthy relationships; and take action in their communities to make the world a better place.

For more information, visit www.gsofct.org.
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