By: De’Asyia O.
I recently participated in an unforgettable day of leadership, service, and recognition during the Smiles for Military Cookie Recognition Ceremony hosted by the Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta.
During the event, I had the opportunity to interview Jai Ferrell, Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta’s Chief Executive Officer. Ferrell, who assumed the role on July 1, 2024, is a native Atlantan, a Spelman College alumna, and the first woman of color to lead Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta which serves more than 23,000 girls across 34 counties.
At the beginning of my interview, Ferrell shared with me that she was a Girl Scout as a child and loved the experience, but never imagined that one day she would lead the organization. She explained that although she always knew she wanted to make a difference and help others, she did not realize her journey would eventually lead her back to Girl Scouts in such an important leadership role.
She also explained how Spelman College’s motto, “A Choice to Change the World,” continues to inspire her leadership and commitment to serving girls. Throughout the interview, we talked about leadership, career pathways, and what she enjoys most about her role. Ferrell shared, “The girls are the best part. It’s you all that are better than anything else that I get to do.”
During the ceremony, Ferrell recognized a USO leader with the song “Make New Friends.” She shared that the two first met while working at the airport years ago and encouraged the girls to build positive relationships and work well with others because you never know where those connections may lead in the future.
The Smiles for Military initiative honors Girl Scouts who sell at least 100 donated boxes of cookies designated for military members. I received the top recognition award at the event for selling the highest number of donated Girl Scout cookies for the military. I received a Top Donation Certificate and a special Army medal in recognition of my dedication and service.
During the event, Girl Scouts also packed care packages filled with cookies and snacks for military personnel and listened to four female Army leaders. They shared their stories of service, leadership, and perseverance.
Ever wonder how the Smiles4Military cookies get to the service women and men serving our country? Through a partnership with the USO, the donated cookies are distributed to military members around the world as a token of appreciation for their sacrifice and service.
The event was held at Dobbins Air Reserve Base, where we were able to explore helicopters, interact with military professionals from various career fields, participate in simulation activities, and visit an operations control room.
From leadership lessons to hands-on military experiences, the event provided an inspiring opportunity for girls to learn, serve, and grow. Through service projects, meaningful conversations, and community partnerships, the Smiles for Military ceremony highlighted the powerful impact Girl Scouts continue to make, one box of cookies at a time.
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