Siemers Honored at Girl Scouts Gala

Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois held their annual United We Lead Gala earlier this month in Collinsville.

The event raised over $123,000 for the organization.

The United We Lead Gala, themed “Lead The Way” in 2023, brings together a wide range of people who share a common goal – to empower today’s girls to become tomorrow’s leaders.

A highlight of the evening was presenting the annual Distinguished Community Leader Award to Rick and Diane Siemer of Teutopolis. The Siemers have been a part of Girl Scouting in Southern Illinois for nearly 35 years. It all began in 1989 when their daughter joined Girl Scouts and Diane became the Troop Leader for her troop. The family became more and more involved over the years in various capacities, including within their Service Unit, the council Board of Directors, and as a National Delegate. A Girl Scout release states, "Rick and Diane have gone above and beyond with their commitment to Girl Scouting, and Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois is honored to present them with the Distinguished Community Leader Award."

“I am beyond pleased with the success of our fifth annual United We Lead Gala,” said Heidi Koehl Weaver, Director of Development. “I want to extend my sincere thanks to Rick and Diane Siemer, our guests, and our generous supporters. They believe in Girl Scouting and our mission to build girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place. Their investment ensures that today’s girls will become tomorrow’s leaders.”