A Legacy That Lasts: Celebrating the Power of Girl Scouts at Leading with Legacy 2026

What Does it Mean to Leave a Legacy?

Sometimes, it’s a mother and daughter singing the same camp songs they learned decades apart. Sometimes, it’s a place where generations of Girl Scouts have gathered, built friendships, and discovered what they’re capable of.

And sometimes, it’s the generosity of someone who believed in creating opportunities for Girl Scouts they might never meet.

On October 30, community leaders, supporters, and friends of Girl Scouts gathered at The Edgewater in Madison for Girl Scouts of Wisconsin–Badgerland’s 2026 Leading with Legacy luncheon. The annual fundraising event celebrated the lasting impact of Girl Scouts, honored an extraordinary legacy of leadership and philanthropy, and brought our community together to help create more opportunities for the next generation.

The Power of a Girl Scout Experience

The afternoon featured keynote speaker Telva McGruder, National Board President of Girl Scouts of the USA and Executive Director of Global Body Manufacturing Engineering at General Motors. A lifetime Girl Scout, McGruder brought her leadership experience and deep connection to the Girl Scout Movement to the celebration.

But one of the most meaningful stories of the afternoon came from a young woman who has experienced the impact of Girl Scouts firsthand.

Rachel, a lifelong Girl Scout who has spent 13 summers at Camp Ehawee as a camper and staff member, shared how Girl Scouts has shaped her life. From outdoor adventures and lifelong friendships to finding a place where she belongs, her experiences have helped her grow into the confident young leader she is today.

For Rachel, that experience is also a family tradition. Her mother attended and worked at Camp Ehawee, and the two share memories, adventures, and even camp songs passed down through generations.

But not every girl has access to experiences like Rachel's. And that's something we can change together.

Through a special fundraising appeal, guests were invited to invest in the next generation of Girl Scouts, helping provide access to camp, educational programs, leadership opportunities, and experiences that build courage, confidence, and character.

Honoring a Legacy That Spans Generations

One of the afternoon's most special moments was the presentation of the 2026 Badgerland Girl Scout Founder's Award, awarded posthumously to Gail K. Cleary in recognition of her extraordinary leadership, visionary philanthropy, and lasting contributions to Girl Scouts.

The Founder's Award recognizes individuals, families, and organizations whose generosity reflects the pioneering spirit of Girl Scout founder Juliette Gordon Low and creates opportunities that empower generations of Girl Scouts.

Gail embodied that spirit throughout her life.

During 34 years of service, she served as Council President of Girl Scouts of Riverland Council, now part of Badgerland, held national leadership roles, and devoted her time and resources to strengthening the Girl Scout Movement.

Her family's connection to Camp Ehawee began with her parents, Hope and Roy Kumm, who helped make the camp possible. Gail carried that commitment forward, helping create Hope Lodge, named in honor of her mother, and supporting improvements that would benefit future generations of campers.

Today, Hope Lodge remains the heart of Camp Ehawee, a place where Girl Scouts gather for meals, friendship, laughter, and memories that last a lifetime.

Gail also supported the creation of a cabin named Ka-Sa-Me, dedicated to her granddaughters, Kate, Sara, and Megan, ensuring that her family's love of camp would continue for generations.

As Camp Ehawee celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, the Cleary family's legacy is woven into countless Girl Scout experiences.

It was especially meaningful that Rachel, whose own life has been shaped by Camp Ehawee, presented the Founder's Award to Gail's daughters, Kristine and Sandra, who accepted the honor on their mother's behalf.

The family received an additional special recognition when Wisconsin State Representative Tara Johnson presented a State Commendation honoring Gail and the Cleary family's lasting contributions.

Gail's story is a reminder that the impact of generosity doesn't end with a single gift or a single generation. It continues through every Girl Scout who benefits from the opportunities it creates.

Building the Next Legacy Together

Throughout the afternoon, one message connected every story: When we invest in Girl Scouts, we invest in the future of our communities.

As Badgerland CEO Lisa Smith shared during her remarks:

"We don't give Girl Scouts their strengths. They already have them. We give them the chance to discover what those strengths can do."

That's what Leading with Legacy is all about.

We're grateful to emcee Amber Noggle of WKOW, keynote speaker Telva McGruder, our event committee, generous sponsors, donors, and every guest who joined us in celebrating the power of Girl Scouts. Your support helps ensure that more Girl Scouts have opportunities to discover their strengths, take on new challenges, and make a difference in the world around them.

And while the luncheon may be over, the opportunity to make an impact continues.

The next generation of leaders is growing up right now. Together, we can help ensure they have the experiences, encouragement, and opportunities they deserve.