Diane Nelson, chief executive officer of Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois, has announced her plan to retire, effective July 2026, after 24 years with the organization.
The Board of Directors will conduct a national search for her successor in the coming months.
Nelson joined Girl Scouts of the Mississippi Valley as executive director in 2002. In 2008, she led the realignment of five councils and became CEO of Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois.
“Diane’s passion for empowering girls and her ability to lead with vision and heart have left an indelible mark on our organization,” said Tracy Schwind, chair of the Board of Directors, in a release. “Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Girl Scouts.”
Nelson has received recognition including the Athena Business Women’s Award, Woman of Influence by the Quad Cities Business Journal, and inclusion in the Corridor Business Journal’s IOWA 500 list of influential business leaders.
Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois serves girls across the region through leadership development and community programs.
