The Board of Directors of Girls Inc. of Columbus has announced the election of five new Directors, as well as its 2017 Board Officers.

The new Directors, each of whom will serve a three-year term, are:

• Tara W. Askew - Vice President of Student Affairs, Columbus Technical College

• Yolanda R. Beasley - Supervisor, Ongoing Services and Family Preservation, State of Alabama Department of Resources

• Lesley B. Dudley - Director, Account Management, TSYS

• Ivey Cargill Evans - Marketing Manager, Aflac

• Mary Ellen Keim - Vice President, Corporate Regulatory Compliance, Aflac

The 2017 Board Officers are:

• Wendi Jenkins - President

• Jennifer Daniel - 1^st Vice-President

• Susan Walker - 2^nd Vice-President

• Lauren Minter - Secretary

• Ellen Lane - Assistant Secretary

• Joy Coker - Treasurer

• Jennifer Adams - Assistant Treasurer

“We have a phenomenal group of dedicated individuals on our board,” said Leann Malone, Executive Director of Girls Inc. of Columbus. “Every one of our Directors brings a depth of experience, leadership and passion for our mission that will be critical to our success as we grow and take Girls Inc. to the next level.”

The Board recently concluded its 2017 planning retreat, which focused on updates to the organization’s current five-year strategic plan and plans for growth over the next three years. Ms. Malone said they anticipate releasing the updated 2015-2020 Strategic Plan by mid-year.