In advance of International Women’s Day this weekend, The Girl Scouts of Suffolk County hosted its annual 2025 Making an Impact Breakfast and Symposium, titled “IGNITING TOMORROW’S CHANGEMAKERS,” at Stonebridge Golf Links & Country Club here today.
More than 300 Long Island Business community members, special guest Girl Scout Ambassadors, and the Board of Directors of Girl Scouts of Suffolk County attended the event.
The inspiring morning included a special panel discussion featuring Long Island women in positions of leadership across healthcare, finance, construction and education, who shared their stories on empowerment, leadership skills, and the importance of mental health for today’s Girl Scouts.
Panelists included:
- Linda Armyn, President & CEO, FourLeaf Federal Credit Union
- Dr. Sylvia A. Diaz, Deputy County Executive for Health, Human Services, & Education
- Gina Farese, CEO, Marcor Construction, Marcor, Solar, & MGM Construction Services
- Michelle Martin, Director of Mission and Ministry, Molloy University
The panel was moderated by Jennifer Friedman, Executive Director, Sisters of St. Dominic of Amityville and Krupa Panchal-Lauricella, Office of Town of Islip Councilman James P. O’Connor.
“I’ve seen these girls go from Daisies to Ambassador Girl Scouts. You bring them up to adulthood to be the women who sit on these panels, breaking barriers and realizing how boundless they can be,” said Tammy Severino, President and CEO, Girl Scouts of Suffolk County. “Additionally, the money we raise with today’s event makes it possible for girls from all backgrounds to be part of the Girl Scout experience.”
“Going to work is more than making a paycheck,” said Gina Farese, CEO, Marcor Construction, Marcor, Solar, & MGM Construction Services. “Being a part of a community and empower other women and lift up other women is important for these girls to learn at a young age.”
About Girl Scouts of Suffolk County
Since 1968, Girl Scouts of Suffolk County has been committed to building girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. With over 15,000 members, they are one of the largest youth-serving agencies in Suffolk County. Girl Scouts helps girls develop their full individual potential; relate to others with increasing understanding, skill, and respect; develop values to guide their actions and provide the foundation for sound decision making; and contribute to the improvement of society through their abilities, leadership skills, and cooperation with others. For more information about the Girl Scouts of Suffolk County, please call (631) 543-6622 or visit www.gssc.us. Follow Girl Scouts of Suffolk County on Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.