A Leadership Update from Girl Scouts of Colorado

Girl Scouts of Colorado has always been built on strong leadership, steady values, and a deep commitment to girls across our state. Today, we’re sharing an important update about our next chapter.

After six years of dedicated service, CEO Leanna Clark has announced her intention to retire. Positive personal news drove her decision, particularly that her husband recently had the opportunity to take early retirement,  and they are excited to begin their next chapter together. She has provided nearly a full year’s notice to ensure a steady and well-planned transition. 

The Board of Directors has initiated a national search for GSCO’s next CEO and will engage an executive search firm with experience in nonprofit leadership transitions to conduct a comprehensive process. A dedicated Board search committee will guide this work and share updates with our community as the process moves forward.

A Strong and Steady Foundation

For more than 100 years, Girl Scouts of Colorado has thrived because of the strength of this Movement — volunteers, families, alums, donors, and community partners working together on behalf of girls.

That foundation remains strong.

Our mission, strategy, and commitment to girls across Colorado are unchanged. GSCO is financially stable, operationally strong, and supported by an experienced leadership team and dedicated staff who will continue guiding our work throughout this transition.

Leadership transitions are a natural and healthy part of any enduring organization’s evolution. With extended notice and thoughtful planning, we are well-positioned for a seamless transition.

Reflecting on Leanna’s Impact

During her tenure, Leanna led a period of meaningful growth and momentum for Girl Scouts of Colorado.

She oversaw the creation of the nation’s first Girl Scout DreamLab, expanded and diversified fundraising, and guided the organization through the challenges of COVID with focus and care.

She led strategic property decisions that strengthened GSCO’s long-term position, elevated Women of Distinction into a premier statewide event, expanded community partnerships, and launched Adopt a Troop to broaden access in under-resourced communities. Signature experiences like Girl Scout Day at the Stock Show were revitalized, and new opportunities for girls across Colorado were created.

Throughout her time as CEO, Leanna remained visible and connected to Girl Scouts and volunteers across the state — a hallmark of her leadership.

We are grateful for her service and the foundation she has helped build for the future.

Looking Ahead

Leanna will continue serving in her full-time capacity as CEO through September 30, 2026. This extended notice period provides the Board and leadership team with the time needed to conduct a thoughtful search and ensure continuity.

In the months ahead, we will share updates about the search process as well as opportunities to celebrate Leanna’s contributions and the bright future of Girl Scouts of Colorado.

Thank you for the countless ways you support girls in your communities. Your commitment is the constant that sustains this Movement — and it will continue to carry Girl Scouts of Colorado forward into its next chapter.

Watch a message from Leanna to Girl Scouts across Colorado.