Troop Leader Spotlight: January 2025
January 24, 2025
Meet Candice Postel, Denise Striggow and Samantha Dickerson. These three amazing troop leaders were nominated by their peers for their dedication and outstanding leadership. Troop leaders work hard every day to deliver a high-quality Girl Scout Leadership Experience for girls.
Candice Postel, Troop 32920
Time Volunteering: 4 years
Service Unit: 606
Strawberry
Favorite Girl Scout Cookies®: Thin Mints
What are three things you have learned from being a troop leader?
I wasn’t a Girl Scout growing up so as a troop leader I’ve learned about the history of the organization and now I wish I had been a Girl Scout when I was young.
I’ve learned about the opportunities and experiences Girl Scouts offers so I love being able to see my troop have new experiences.
I love all of the $5 adult training sessions so I’ve learned new skills like using a pocket knife and first aid.
What are your two favorite things you are looking forward to with your troop?
I love seeing our shy troop members during cookie sales work the booths. They get more confident every year.
Our troop plans a tea party each year for our service unit. We always collect items for a charity at the tea so it’s awesome to see what we can do when we join together.
What is one of your favorite Girl Scout memories?
We did a sleepover at SeaWorld with another troop and it was magical waking up to sea turtles swimming around.
Denise Striggow, Troop 75010
Time Volunteering: 11 years
Service Unit: 618
Orange Blossoms
Favorite Girl Scout Cookies®: Tagalongs
What are three things you have learned from being a troop leader?
When we give them the right tools and guidance they can go above and beyond.
What are your two favorite things you are looking forward to with your troop?
Camp and trip to Savanna, GA
What is one of your favorite Girl Scout memories?
I have so many. When I was leader for my daughter, the father/daughter dances were amazing. We had so much together last year at the MOSI experience. I also love watching the girls interact with the people at the assistant living facility when we went christmas caroling and took them gifts.
Samantha Dickerson, Troop 50428
Time Volunteering: 1 ½ years
Service Unit: 631
Angel Echo
Favorite Girl Scout Cookies®: Samoas
What are three things you have learned from being a troop leader?
Being a Girl Scout troop leader is a journey filled with growth, learning, and unforgettable experiences. I’ve learned:
1. Leadership is about adaptability. Every girl is unique, and leading a troop has taught me how to tailor my approach to meet their individual needs while keeping activities engaging and fun for everyone.
2. Teamwork makes everything possible. Collaborating with my co-leader, parents, and the community has shown me the power of communication, delegation, and working together to achieve our shared goals.
3. Empowerment is key. Watching the girls gain confidence and develop new skills reminds me how important it is to foster independence and resilience, giving them the tools to lead and succeed!
What are your two favorite things you are looking forward to with your troop?
As a troop leader, I look forward to the mutual learning and growth that comes from working with the girls. Guiding them through new experiences and challenges often teaches me just as much as I teach them, creating a shared journey of discovery and empowerment. I’m also excited to foster a sense of community within our troop, watching the girls build lasting friendships and develop their unique strengths while working together toward common goals.
What is one of your favorite Girl Scout memories?
My favorite Girl Scout memory so far has been participating in Small Watercraft and BOLT trainings. I’ve always loved everything outdoors, and being on the water feels like home to me. These experiences not only deepened my connection to nature but also gave me the tools to help my troop enjoy and explore the outdoors safely and confidently.
Anything else you want us to know?
I am not a parent of a Scout, but I became a troop leader because I deeply value the opportunity to mentor and support young ladies as they grow and succeed. Becoming a Girl Scout has been a lifelong goal of mine, and I am so grateful to have fulfilled that dream as an adult. It’s truly rewarding to guide these incredible girls on their journey and to play a role in helping them reach their fullest potential.
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Do you know a Troop Leader who deserves to be recognized for delivering a high quality Girl Scout Leadership Experience? Consider nominating them for the Troop Leader Spotlight!
