Kathy Cloninger

CEO, Girl Scouts of the USA

Kathy Cloninger is a recognized expert on, and advocate for, girls' and women's issues. After becoming the chief executive officer of Girl Scouts of the USA in late 2003, Kathy launched a sweeping transformation of the entire Girl Scout Movement, refocusing its focus on developing girls' leadership capabilities and implementing a new strategic business plan affecting every major area of organizational activity: programs, volunteerism, brand, funding, and structure/governance.

A native of Dallas, Kathy got her start as a Girl Scout in her mother's troop. Her 25 years in Girl Scouting include service as CEO with Girl Scout councils in Tennessee, Texas, and Colorado; as national management consultant for GSUSA; and as a participant in task groups strategizing on girls¹ well-being. Kathy holds a master¹s degree in counseling and business management from East Texas State University.