Girl Scouts Of Suffolk Host International Women's Day Breakfast

SMITHTOWN, NY — 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 on Friday. The event was held in advance of International Women’s Day this weekend

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.

“I’ve seen these girls go from Daisies to Ambassador Girl Scouts," said Tammy Severino, president and CEO of Girl Scouts of Suffolk County, in a news release. "You bring them up to adulthood to be the women who sit on these panels, breaking barriers and realizing how boundless they can be. 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."

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 of the Sisters of St. Dominic of Amityville; and Krupa Panchal-Lauricella, office of Town of Islip Councilman James P. O’Connor.

"Going to work is more than making a paycheck," Farese said. "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."