GIRLS SCOUTS OF THE USA APPOINTS ITS FIRST BLACK CEO IN ITS 108-YEAR HISTORY
2 min read
Beginning Aug. 16, Judith Batty a lifelong “Girl Scout, a board member, and corporate trailblazer” became interim CEO of the Girl Scouts of the United State, the first Black CEO in the organization’s history. Batty’s appointment follows the resignation of Sylvia Acevedo, who stepped down after leading the organization for four years.
Batty began her Girl Scout career as a Brownie and as a member of the Nassau County Council in New York and served two terms on the National Board, this term serving as a member of the Executive Committee and International Commissioner.
Prior to joining the Girl Scouts as interim CEO, Batty has served as the co-chair of the governance committee on the board of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA). MWAA operates Dulles International and Reagan National airports and the Dulles toll road, as well as oversees the construction of DC Metro’s Silver Line to Dulles. She is the immediate past chair of the governing board of trustees of Arena Stage, a major arts and cultural center in the nation’s capital.
or nearly 30 years, Batty also served as senior legal counsel and an executive for Exxon Mobil Corporation, where she became the first woman and first Black general counsel to one of the company’s overseas affiliates. In addition to her legal positions at Exxon Mobil Corporation, Batty served as senior director for federal relations, government and public affairs.
“When I was young, the Girl Scouts instilled in me the courage, confidence, and character that have guided me through my life and career,” Batty said. “It is an incredible honor to bring those lessons back full circle to help the Girl Scouts navigate this transition.
“As families across the country contend with so much uncertainty and upheaval, I am committed to ensuring that the Girl Scouts continues to offer shelter in the storm – a place where all our girls feel welcomed, can find community, solidarity, leadership opportunities and fun, despite the challenging moment we are all collectively living through.”
Acevedo, a former rocket scientist and a lifetime Girl Scout, helped propel the organization forward to be more relevant in the 21st century, a release from the organization said. During her four years as CEO, Acevedo transformed the organization, which is ultimately about helping the girls of today become tomorrow’s leaders.
“It has been my honor and privilege to serve as CEO of this great organization,” Acevedo said. “The real stars of this organization are—and will always be—the girls who motivate all of us who so proudly serve Girl Scouts. I want to also recognize and thank our hard-working volunteers, who truly embody the selfless spirit of Girl Scouts.”
About Author
