Tag: National Council Session

Girl Scouts Take On D.C.! Highlights from the 2026 National Council Session and Girl Scout Convention

In the middle of July, on a very hot and humid day, the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana (GCNWI) National Delegation descended on Washington, D.C. They weren’t alone, as thousands of other Girl Scouts from across the country, around the world, and within our own council were gathering for the National Council Session (NCS) and Girl Scout Convention.

Held once every three years, NCS is the business meeting of our Movement, where important issues and topics that affect the future of Girl Scouting are discussed, debated, and voted on by the National Council. NCS takes place during the first half of the week, followed by the Girl Scout Convention, known this year as Girl Scouts Unite. During Unite, Girl Scouts gather to attend programs and workshops, hear inspiring stories, and participate in traditions like trading SWAPS or singing.

National delegates make up the majority of the National Council and are elected by local councils to serve three-year terms. The GCNWI National Delegation is made up of adult members and Girl Scouts who are at least 14 years old at the time of election. They come from across our council and bring a variety of Girl Scout experiences, including some who have attended NCS before and others who are attending for the first time.

Since their election in April 2025, the National Delegation has shown incredible dedication to our council, members, and Movement, spending countless hours preparing for NCS by attending virtual and in-person meetings, reviewing materials, talking with members, and listening to each other. This year was especially busy, as GCNWI originated a proposal that was included on the NCS agenda, as well as another proposal on which action was taken before NCS.

First time Delegates Adriana and Kelly excited to be in DC
Delegation Support, Alaina and Robin, picking up all the swag bags and credentials

Delegates Rachel, Adriana, Kayland, Madalyn and Kelly at the Delegation dinner

The first day of NCS started bright and early with delegate education sessions. These sessions continued the preparation webinars that delegates had been participating in for months. They provided an opportunity for delegates to share their opinions on proposals in person before the official start of the meeting. Delegates also had the chance to meet candidates for the National Board of Directors.

First-time Delegate Heather at the mic during the Delegate Education Sessions
First-time Delegate Mikenna at the mic during the Delegate Education Sessions

After lunch, NCS officially began. Over three days, delegates participated in debates and discussions on issues affecting the future of our Movement. It was thrilling to be in a room with so many people who share a passion for Girl Scouting.

The opening ceremony literally brought tears to my eyes. Seeing so many cultures and places represented under the same organization really means a lot to me, especially during a time when the world outside the convention doors isn’t always so kind. Seeing the impact Girl Scouts has had on youth is incredibly moving, but I was also struck by the realization that Girl Scouts isn’t just for girls. It’s for adults, too. The number of older women in attendance really showed me how Girl Scouts has the potential to make a lifelong impact, and I want to make sure I provide that same opportunity for my daughter, my troop, and myself. -Delegate Rachel T.

Sky view of the NCS floor
GCNWI National Delegation ready to go

It’s always breathtaking to see the sheer amount of people that come together for this event. Over a thousand people in the room that bleed green is truly a sight to see. -Delegate Rebecca

Youth Delegates Joy, Rachel, Faith, Kaelyn, Kenzee, Mariam, Hazel and Elise ready for day one
Delegates Kelly and Jen heading in to the first business meeting
Delegates Madalyn, Joy and Mikenna ready for the meeting to start.

The NCS agenda included three proposals and two discussion topics. You can read the official proposal outcomes here.

The first proposal considered expanding the ability of Girl Scouts to participate in direct solicitation of funds for their Highest Awards projects. The Blue Book of Basic Documents, the governing document all councils must follow, has allowed Seniors and Ambassadors working toward their Gold Award to participate in direct solicitation, depending on local council policies and procedures.

The proposal sought to extend this opportunity to Juniors working toward their Bronze Award and Cadettes working toward their Silver Award. Following debate, delegates voted to approve the change.

The Blue Book requires Girl Scouts to follow their individual councils’ policies and procedures regarding solicitation. Girl Scouts should check with their council before soliciting funds, as additional requirements or restrictions may apply.

Kaelyn, Joy and Elise wore vintage uniforms borrowed from the GCNWI Historians
GCNWI Delegation ready for day two
GCNWI Youth Delegates

Seeing all the girls come together to make such high-level decisions and put the work in to make Girl Scouts better really inspired me and showed me that we girls can make not only Girl Scouts better, but the world a better place. -Youth Delegate Mariam

My favorite part of NCS was meeting Girl Scouts from across the country and from overseas. It was incredible to meet people with different backgrounds and perspectives who sharing the same goal: to better the Girl Scouts Movement. -Youth Delegate Elise

The second proposal on the agenda was brought forward by our own GCNWI delegation. This proposal sought to lower the percentage by which the National Board could increase national membership dues during a triennium without National Council approval.

The original limit was set at 25% during the 2020 NCS through the work of the GCNWI National Delegation, which introduced the original language. The adoption of this limit led to the Special National Council Session in 2024 to address an increase in national membership dues.

This year’s proposal sought to lower the limit from 25% to 15% during a triennium. Following debate, the proposal passed as written. Going forward, the National Board will be required to seek National Council approval for any membership dues increase exceeding 15% during a triennium.

Delegate Joy presenting the GCNWI dues proposal from the stage
Ready to answer questions from the floor

I was inspired by our youth delegates. They were willing to put themselves out there and speak at a microphone. I know how great these young ladies are, and they make me want to continue to volunteer for Girl Scouts. -Delegate Karen

The third proposal addressed licensing and trademarks related to food products. Delegates voted to hold an hour-long discussion before opening debate on the proposal. Following the discussion, a point of order was raised regarding whether the proposal met the criteria for inclusion on the agenda. Ultimately, the proposal was removed from the agenda following a vote by delegates..

Delegate Kaelyn at the mic
Delegates Heather and Adriana ready for another session

Although it was not on the NCS agenda, the GCNWI delegation also put forward a proposal to establish a task group to research equity in the distribution of Gold Award scholarships and explore other scholarship opportunities that could be available to Girl Scouts. The proposal did not appear on the agenda because it had already been acted upon before NCS, and GSUSA will establish the task group.

What stands out most about the National Council Session is how seamlessly and powerfully the youth delegates took command of the governance process. Seeing young leaders navigate complex parliamentary procedure, step up to the microphones before more than 1,000 attendees, and hold the floor with such complete poise, preparation, and passion was a masterclass in youth leadership. They didn’t just participate in the debate; they actively shaped national policy, proving that when girl delegates are given a real seat at the decision-making table, they lead with extraordinary clarity and strength. -Delegate and Chaperone Lindsay

While the National Delegation was focused on the business of the meetings, one of the highlights of having so many Girl Scouts gathered in one place was the opportunity to meet people you might not encounter elsewhere. From GSUSA CEO Bonnie Barczykowski to parliamentarian Sarah Merkle to Congresswoman Lauren Underwood, you never know who you might run into!

Meeting lifetime Girl Scout member and Congresswoman, Lauren Underwood was a highlight. She’s such an inspiring force and I loved hearing about her Girl Scout memories, including her Gold Award. -Delegate Rebecca

GCNWI Delegates meeting GSUSA CEO Bonnie Barczykowski
GCNWI Delegates meeting Sarah Merkle who served as parliamentarian for NCS
GCNWI Delegation meeting Representative Lauren Underwood
GCNWI Delegation group photo with Representative Lauren Underwood

GCNWI Delegation

In addition to the proposals, delegates participated in discussions on two topics. The first, “Amplify Impact: Building Connections with Our Communities,” explored what members and their families are looking for in their Girl Scout experience; where consistency and flexibility enhance that experience; how our values underpin that experience and, at times, create unintended barriers; and what support our members need to promote and deliver the Girl Scout experience in their communities.

The second discussion topic, “Revolutionize Engagement: Girl Scouts Her Way,” focused on how the Movement can evolve to meet the needs of current and future members. Conversations included research findings, simplifying the path to joining and staying in Girl Scouts, and ways to inform pilot programs. We look forward to seeing how these discussions influence the future of our Movement.

During NCS, the GSUSA National Board was also elected. We were sad to say goodbye to outgoing GSUSA Board President Noorain Khan but excited to welcome Telva McGruder to the role.

GSUSA National Board
GCNWI Delegates with outgoing GSUSA Board President Noorain Khan
Delegate Kaelyn with new GSUSA Board President Telva McGruder
GCNWI Group

But NCS isn’t where the week ended! During the second half of the week, delegation members got to enjoy Girl Scouts Unite, a fun-filled event open to Girl Scouts of all ages. Thousands more Girl Scouts descended on D.C., including GCNWI members. We were thrilled to run into some of our fellow GCNWI members while there.

Delegation Support Robin with GCNWI members Angie and Ann
Delegation Support Robin with GCNWI members Amanda, Dalia and Anisia
Alternate National Delegate Pam, along with several other GCNWI members, volunteered during the week to help make the magic happen
Delegates and Chaperones Rebecca and Lindsay excited to take on the Hall of Experiences
Delegates Kelly and Jen at Girl Scouts Unite
Delegate Denise at Girl Scouts Unite
Delegates enjoying the art wall
Delegate enjoying the art wall
Rebecca, Elise, Faith and Mariam enjoying the activities
Delegates Hazel and Joy braving the Girl Scout shop line for some new swag
Youth Delegates at Girl Scout Unite

My favorite part of NCS/Unite was all the conversations I had with people from all over as well as all the laughs I shared with my fellow youth delegates. What left me really inspired is seeing so many girls with their Gold Award and it inspired me to go for my Gold Award. -Youth Delegate Kenzee

Hosting council, Girl Scouts of Nations Capitol also hosted a Block Party down the street from the convention center during the week.

I was so surprised by the SWAPS culture at NCS and Girl Scouts Unite. The commitment to these whatchamacallits by everyone there shocked me. I met hundreds of people and learned personal things about their hometowns, their hobbies, and even their pets! I was amazed at how a seemingly simple exchange of items could lead to such meaningful connections. -Youth Delegate Elise

Members of our delegation also enjoyed the opportunity to take in some D.C. sights during the week. A highlight for everyone was seeing the famous painting of our founder, Juliette Gordon Low, at the Smithsonian. The delegation also visited various museums and, of course, the famous monuments.

National Geographic Museum
The Delegation is always looking at things from a new angle
Delegate Hazel taking in the view
Delegates Kaelyn and Rachel V. ran into outgoing GSUSA Board President Noorain Kahn
Delegate Kaelyn at the Washington Monument
Super Chaperone Rebecca making sure no Girl Scout is left behind after Delegate Kenzee had a show misshape
Visiting Daisy at the Smithsonian
Visiting Daisy at the Smithsonian
Spy Museum
Smithsonian

I have never been surrounded by so many people passionate about the same thing before. It was such an amazing time to see all walks of life represented and partaking in the Girl Scout Movement. -Delegate Rachel T.

If you are interested in experiencing the next National Council Session and Girl Scout Convention, it’s not too early to save the date! The next event will take place in Indianapolis, Indiana, in July 2029. To learn more, visit the GSUSA Convention page or sign up for the Convention Insider List.

If you are interested in serving as a national delegate, applications for the next class of delegates will open in fall 2027. Candidates must be at least 14 years old by the time of the election at the 2028 Annual Meeting, which is expected to take place in April. For more information, visit our Democratic Process page.

Unsure about applying? Here’s some advice from our delegates:

You’ll regret it if you don’t! It has been hands down one of the best experiences of my life. -Adult Delegate Rachel T.

I would say definitely apply to be a National Delegate/ attend convention. It has honestly been one of the best experiences and you will gain memories that will stick with you forever. -Youth Delegate Mariam

It the most insane experience you will ever have, and it’s the best one. -Youth Delegate Rachel T.

I have held pretty much every volunteer role there is in Girl Scouting, and this was one of my favorites! You get the opportunity to actually make change that will impact the entire movement while also getting to meet delegates from across the country. It was a lot of fun! -Adult Delegate Heather

Returning to Where It All Began: The History of the Girl Scout National Convention

2023 Orlando – GCNWI Youth Delegate Katharine debating a proposal from the floor.

Juliette Gordon Low established the first national Girl Scout office in Washington, DC, in 1913. She hired two women to run the office but found that, as the movement spread across the United States, the work became too demanding. So she organized an advisory panel to monitor the expansion of the organization with monthly meetings in Washington. However, if the Girl Scouts were to be a truly national organization, its leadership should reflect the broad national interest. Therefore, Juliette Low organized the first Girl Scout National Convention, which took place June 10–12, 1915, at the prestigious Raleigh Hotel in Washington, DC.

At the first convention, 51 delegates were tasked with giving Girl Scouting a firm legal footing and consistent practices, without sacrificing local autonomy. They adopted a constitution and bylaws and elected national officers. Delegates endorsed a federal structure whereby the national organization would serve as an umbrella for multiple, independent councils. Delegates also agreed to create the National Council as the primary decision-making body for the Movement.

“Convention” is a broad name for what happens at these gatherings. There are guest speakers, an exhibition hall, spontaneous singing, organized singing, and forums on a range of enriching topics. The most important component is the formal meeting of the National Council, the Girl Scout legislature. Each local council sends delegates to vote on proposals that will have a significant impact on the Girl Scout Movement.

National Council meetings have shaped many of the most significant policies in Girl Scout history. Starting with the 1915 decision to set annual dues at 25 cents, subsequent increases went through the National Council. That pattern continued until 2012, when the National Board of Directors raised dues without taking the matter to the National Council.

In 1927, Girl Scouts shared that khaki uniforms looked too much like military uniforms, so a new silver-gray fabric was adopted. In 1960, delegates voted to divide the Intermediate level program (ages 10–13) into Juniors (ages 9–11) and Cadettes (ages 12–14). Then, in 1969, it was decided that Girl Scouts would remain a uniformed organization, but the uniforms would be updated to more contemporary styles. In 1975, a motion to admit boys into the organization was defeated; they also passed a constitutional amendment dedicated to diversity, pluralism, and anti-racism. Another interesting motion that was raised at the 1987 convention was to establish a plan to preserve our history. As a result, a National Historic Preservation Center was established at National Headquarters, a museum was created, and the reference handbook The Girl Scout Collector’s Guide was published in 1987 (revised in 2005).

As the organization grew, the frequency of conventions changed to accommodate its expanding membership. From 1915 to 1939, conventions were held annually. Beginning in 1941, they were held every two years. Since 1957, National Conventions have been held every three years.

During 2020, the in-person event was canceled, but delegates still gathered virtually for the National Council Session. Delegates Alonda and Leah shared photos of themselves participating in the meetings from home.

1990 Miami Beach – Delegates from South Cook Council (which eventually would merge into GCNWI)
2014 Salt Lake City – GCNWI Delegates
2011 Houston – GCNWI Delegates wearing vintage uniforms.
2017 Columbus – GCNWI Delegation
2023 Orlando – GCNWI Delegation
2026 DC – The current Delegation met at Camp Palos for a prep meeting in February.
2026 DC – Youth Delegate Mariam represented the Delegation at the GCNWI Annual Meeting, giving a sneak peek to the proposals and discussion topics that would be addressed in DC.

2026 Girl Scout National Convention

To commemorate the 250th anniversary of our country, the Girl Scout National Convention was held in Washington, DC, in July.

The GCNWI National Delegation recently returned from attending. They had spent countless hours preparing, and were thrilled to represent our council with the future of our Movement in mind. Thank you to the 2026 GCNWI National Delegation for being an essential part of our Girl Scout community and our Movement.

An Enchanting Recap from 2023’s National Council Session and Girl Scout Convention.

This past July in Lake Buena Vista, FL, Girl Scouts from across the country and world gathered at Walt Disney World Resort for the 2023 National Council Session (NCS) and Girl Scout Convention, Phenom. With excitement and magic lingering in the air, nearly 10,000 Girl Scouts, National Council Delegates, volunteers, and visitors eagerly awaited their chance to celebrate our movement. A magical few days were about to take place in what could be described as one of the most magical places on earth.

Taking place once every three years, this event is both a business meeting, where important issues and topics that affect the future of our movement are discussed and voted on by the National Council, and a celebration of our movement with inspiring stories, new friendships, and of course, lots of sing-a-longs taking place.

National Council Delegates are elected by local councils and serve in these roles for three years. They represent local councils in the business meeting portion of convention known as NCS. The Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana (GCNWI) National Delegation is made up of adult members and Girl Scouts who are at least 14 years of age at the time of election. Some GCNWI Delegates have attended numerous NCSs while others were attending for the first time!

GCNWI’s National Delegation.

While their experience varies, all delegates share a passion for Girl Scouting, a desire to serve our council, and have a dedication that is unmatched as they spent countless hours preparing to attend NCS by meeting both virtually and in person. National Delegate Pamela shared that while she had so many memories from NCS, one of her favorites was GCNWI’s Delegation meeting up at the airport. “I could feel the positive energy of the group. We each knew we had a purpose to represent our council and we were ready.”

Delegation training in Spring 2023.

Upon arrival and ready to kick off the festivities, GCNWI’s National Delegation gathered with other GCNWI council members who were in town to attend the convention. Together, they had a spectacular evening full of laughter, friendship, and wonder as they looked ahead to the exciting events that were to come. 

During the 56th NCS, which lasted three days, delegates participated in debates and voted on seven proposals that direct the future of the Girl Scout Movement. Four of these seven proposals were passed. While some proposals were passed or defeated quickly, others went through hours of debating before a vote was taken. First time GCNWI National Delegate Rebecca reflects that, “It was so exciting to be a part of the debates and witness the voting/passing of various proposals. I was surprised by how quickly things could move – and how slowly they could crawl. The most surprising part of NCS may have been the girl delegates. They spoke so passionately and thoughtfully with a perspective I no longer have personally. I’m so impressed and inspired by all of them. The future is bright.”

GCNWI National Girl Delegates and chaperone strategizing before NCS.
GCNWI National Girl Delegates Madalyn, Maddie, McKenzie, Hazel, Katharine, and Annabel.

While reflecting on her favorite part of NCS, GCNWI National Girl Delegate Madalyn shared, “I loved the entirety of the democratic process. Seeing such passionate females making their voice heard and being powerful was such an inspiration and an experience I will never forget. Even the little moments when I would talk with the other girl delegates across the table, and we would discuss the proposal at hand was so meaningful because open-mindedness is something that always should be present in democracy but is rare.”

Additionally, GCNWI National Girl Delegate Hazel shared, “It was really cool to be surrounded by so many powerful women and intelligent girls. It’s so rare to be in a room where important decisions are being made by only (or mostly) women, and it was a really amazing experience.”

GCNWI National Girl Delegate Annabel reflects, “I was definitely nervous about knowing all of the information and nuances of the proposals being discussed, but as we all were able to have in depth discussions from members of our and other delegations, I learned some really fascinating insight and was able to deepen my understanding of Girl Scout governance. This was one of the things I was also excited about, being able to talk to many people from all over the country, as well as the opportunity to grow closer to those in my delegation. I think Girl Scouts is truly one of the most inclusive places, and everyone I’ve met wants to listen to and learn from what others have to say, even if they disagree.”

GCNWI National Girl Delegates McKenzie, Madalyn, Hazel, Maddie, Annabel, and Katharine with new National Board Member Scott Saunders and GCNWI Board Member Janet Hulet.

GCNWI Delegate Lindsay shares that, “The best part of NCS was listening to passionate, informed, and courageous girl members from around the country make their cases to a room of 1000. Their voices were excellent reminders of why Girl Scouting is more important than ever.”

One of the more important pieces of business at this year’s NCS was the consideration of the Girl Scout Gold Award Scholarship. During the 2020 NCS, GCNWI’s National Delegation proposed the formation of a task force to examine the feasibility of creating a national Gold Award Scholarship Fund, which was passed. After the passing of that proposal, a task force was formed and made recommendations for the creation of a Movement Gold Award Scholarship. The passing of the 2023 proposal puts the existence of the fund into the Blue Book of Basic Documents.

GCNWI National Delegate Karen, who was instrumental in the creation of the 2020 proposal and served on the Gold Award Scholarship Fund Task Force, shared that her favorite moment of this year’s NCS was wrapped around the passing of this proposal. “After many years of advocating for the creation of a national scholarship program for Gold Award recipients, I was thoroughly delighted when the proposal passed and that my dream will now come to fruition.”

Proposals were not the only topic on this year’s NCS agenda. Delegates had a busy schedule and participated in a discussion on Movement Governance, elected the new National Board and National Board Development Committee, and had a great time meeting and networking with Girl Scouts of the USA’s (GSUSA) CEO Bonnie Barczykowski, members of the National Board, and new National Board President Noorain F. Khan.

After NCS wrapped up, it was time for Phenom, the convention portion of the week! During Phenom, Girl Scouts had the chance to continue networking with others from across the movement, explore the expo hall, workshops, and even hop on over to the parks! Some of our members also volunteered or participated in a 5k that took place around the convention center.

GCNWI National Alternate Delegate Tina has attended convention multiple times as a visitor and shared, “I love going to convention. There is so much energy when you put so many Girl Scouts in one place. It’s amazing to see the girls become so engaged, socializing, and networking with other girls and adults from all over. It’s equally amazing to see so many adults who are so passionate about our movement and what it provides for the girls. It’s a perfect cure for burnout! I always leave reenergized and proud to be a lifetime member of GSUSA.”

GCNWI National Delegate Tresa joined her troop after NCS to take in convention. “I loved meeting other delegates from other councils along with having my troop of 5 girls there for Phenom. It was an amazing and inspiring event that they got to witness while using their money they had raised to make it a better world in the future.”

While we reflect on all of the wonderful memories created at this year’s NCS and Girl Scout Convention, we’re excited to share the next NCS and Girl Scout Convention will take place in Washington, DC, July 20-25, 2026! Those interested in attending as visitors should stay tuned for more information that will be released from GSUSA.

GCNWI will be seeking applications for our next class of National Delegates in Fall 2024. These delegates will serve from Spring 2025 to Spring 2028. More information will be available on the GCNWI Democratic Process page.

If you or a Girl Scout you know is unsure about applying to be a GCNWI National Girl Delegate or attending Girl Scout Convention, check out what some of our GCNWI National Delegates had to say!

“Apply! Attend! Be part of the remarkable experience! I hope to again in 2026. Once you are there you can see Girl Scouts in action. It is a place where you are surrounded by people who are passionate about the movement, and it shows. The positive energy at the convention is contagious. You need to experience for yourself firsthand. I wish every Girl Scout could attend.” —GCNWI National Delegate Lisa

“Enjoy the journey! You will get to learn more than you imagined about the history and origins of Girl Scouts, and how change happens in this amazing organization.” —GCNWI National Delegate Jen

“I would tell them to go for it. It is such an amazing experience to be able to express your voice & the voice of other Girls and volunteers in your area. You will make close friends with your fellow delegates, meet people from all over, have in-depth conversations about governance and general life. Girl Scouts is such an inclusive and loving space, and it is really reflected in the people you meet. Being able to help better it is such a joy.” —GCNWI National Girl Delegate Annabel

“I cannot recommend this experience enough. YOU can make an impact on our mission. YOU can help guide the future of our organization. YOU should do it (and get ready to have loads of fun on the journey)!” —GCNWI National Delegate Rebecca

Want to learn more? The GCNWI National Delegation is happy to come speak to Troops or Service Units about being a National Delegate and the 2023 National Council Session and Convention. If you would like to request a Delegate to come speak at your meeting, please email Alaina Greene, Delegate Liaison, at agreene@girlscoutsgcnwi.org.