Mother-daughter duo Valari and Jess Wedel have agreed to serve as keynote speakers for this year’s JLLS luncheon! Valari was a source of support when her daughter, Jess, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at age 27. Once Jess conquered cancer, the pair decided to conquer another mountain together. We’re excited to hear their inspiring story of climbing Mount Everest and their journey toward the top of the world’s highest peak together. Don’t miss this sure-to-inspire story!
Annie Bohanon has accepted the role of Honorary Chair for the JLLS luncheon this year. We are so thrilled to get to celebrate Annie as she has done so much for Girl Scouts and the OKC community. While Annie has been a devoted supporter of Girl Scouts over the years, her involvement in the community doesn’t end there. Here’s a bit about Ms. Annie Bohanon:
Annie grew up in Hugo, Oklahoma. Annie herself was a Girl Scout, beginning as a Brownie. Her mother, Sarah Edna Eddleman, was a Girl Scout leader throughout.
Annie later graduated from Oklahoma State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physiology/Medical Technology where she was on the President’s Honor Roll. Upon graduating, she interned for one year in a lab at St. Anothony. She then began working at the Children’s Hospital, where she was promoted to Head of Lab. She worked at the Children’s Hospital for about 25 years. Annie also spent 10 years working at the Oklahoma Art’s Council where she was the lead on bringing together five Native American Ballerinas for the mural dedication at the State Capitol. Other work experience includes writing for the Historic Living Magazine and chairing the first Myriad Gardens Luncheon.
Work is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to how Annie has given back to the community. She has also served on the board for the following organizations: Girl Scouts Western Oklahoma, Oklahoma City Ballet, the YWCA, Planned Parenthood of Oklahoma, and the Humanities Council.
Her years of involvement are filled with awards and recognitions such as The Oklahoma Contemporary Award, the Humanities Council Award, Best Dressed Award from the Journal Record, State of Oklahoma Activist Award, Oklahoma City University Society’s Award, and Honorary Chair of the Juliette Low Leadership Society Luncheon.
When asked, “Why Girl Scouts?”, her reason is that young women need everything Girl Scouts has to offer. As a scientist herself, she is very interested in the STEM opportunities provided to girls.
Thank you for all you have done to make the world a better place, Annie!
