Hope Spies Leads Girl Scouts into New Era

Hope Spies has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of Girl Scouts of Manitou Council, marking the organization's first CEO transition in nearly three decades. She officially assumed the role on August 24, succeeding Denise Schemenauer, who retired after a distinguished 35-year career with the council. Schemenauer had served as CEO since 1997.

Spies possesses over 11 years of leadership experience within Girl Scouts, having most recently directed program quality for the council. Her prior roles include overseeing volunteer education, troop leader training, and summer camp operations. Her connection to the organization began in 2015 as a camp counselor, and she previously attended Girl Scout camps herself.

The board of directors conducted a national search for Schemenauer's successor. Anna Doll, chair of the board, expressed confidence in Spies' leadership skills and dedication to the Girl Scout mission. Spies aims to build upon the council's foundation, fostering innovation and growth for the organization, which serves approximately 4,000 girls across seven counties in Wisconsin.