Troop Leader Spotlight: March 2024
March 21, 2024
[Pictured from left to right: Jodi Gillispie, Lourdes Reyes, Veronica Markiewicz]
Meet Jodi Gillispie, Lourdes Reyes and Veronica Markiewicz. 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.
Lourdes Reyes, Troop 33101
Time Volunteering: 8 years
Service Unit: 611 Caloosa
Favorite Girl Scout Cookies®: Samoas
What are three things you wish you could tell yourself when you first became a troop leader?
1. It's time consuming but watching the girls grow and try new things is totally worth it!!!
2. You will be the reason why they will try new things, take risks and discover their potential therefore don't give up.
3. One day they will remember all the stuff you guys did and a huge smile will be on their faces.
What are your two favorite things about being a Troop Leader?
1. Witness their growth and be there to support them during difficult times.
2. Be the one they come to share their biggest victories in and beyond scouting.
What is one of your favorite Girl Scout memories?
I have so many memories from watching them struggle with canoeing/paddle boarding, getting stuck in the mud, learning how to cook or setting up their tents but also watching them conquer their biggest fears and realize they can do it! My proudest moments were witnessing them being recognized with Bronze, Silver or Gold Award, Council's shout out as well as seeing them grow together. Hearing them share what is going on at their schools/clubs, etc they are truly sisters to each other.
Anything else?
I love and I'm proud of each of my girls scouts. They are simply the best!
Jodi Gillispie, Troop 61708 & 61713
Time Volunteering: 9 years
Service Unit: 653 Hoxie
Favorite Girl Scout Cookies®: Trefoils
What are three things you wish you could tell yourself when you first became a troop leader?
Just breathe.
What are your two favorite things about being a Troop Leader?
Camping, and watching the girls learn something for the first time.
What is one of your favorite Girl Scout memories?
When the girls has done something that she has never done before and was scared to try and she succeeded.
Veronica Markiewicz, Troop 14200, 14220 & 14205
Time Volunteering: 13 years
Service Unit: 655 Trailblazer
Favorite Girl Scout Cookies®: Adventurefuls
What are three things you wish you could tell yourself when you first became a troop leader?
1. As much as being a Girl Scout leader can be challenging at times, in the end it is very rewarding.
2. Never be afraid to ask for help.
3. The more training that you get, will be beneficial to the girls in having a better experience.
What are your two favorite things about being a Troop Leader?
1. Watching the girls grow as individuals.
2. Seeing their expressions when they are learning something new, and just having fun.
What is one of your favorite Girl Scout memories?
They surprised me with a group hug on my birthday.
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!
