Join us on Thursday, October 8, for our 2026 Boots & Pearls celebration!
We'll be hosting this year's ceremony at Wofford College in the Harley Room beginning at 5:30 p.m. Learn more and purchase tickets below.
Meet our 2026 Honorees:
Celebrating Courage. Honoring Legacy. Inspiring the Future.
Since 2013, Boots & Pearls has recognized exceptional women
from the Cherokee, Spartanburg, and Union communities who lead with purpose and
live out the values of courage, confidence, and character—the
foundation of every Girl Scout journey.
This fall tradition is more than a ceremony—it’s a heartfelt celebration of leadership, legacy, and community spirit. Named in honor of Karen H. Mitchell, a beloved volunteer and visionary leader, the award reflects a deep commitment to service that mirrors the spirit of Girl Scout founder Juliette Gordon Low.
The “Boots & Pearls” theme pays tribute to Juliette’s iconic pearls, which she once sold to help fund the early Girl Scout Movement, and to the boots that symbolize the bold journeys our girls are taking toward their futures.
Our past honorees:
We are fortunate to have recognized an
extraordinary group of women over the years and are excited to
continue this annual tradition. Please browse below to view a list of
our incredible honorees.
2025
Mary Helen Dunn Wade
Anne Flynn
Nicke Haney
Dr. Alysa Handelsman (Young Professional Honoree)
2024
Cathy McCabe,
Marchele Garrett, PhD
Savannah Ray (YP Honoree)
2023
Traci Fant
Betsy Teter
Devon Holder (YP Honoree)
2022
Tracey Jackson
Katherine O'Neill
2021
Dr. Amy Baruch
Ms. Laura Ringo
2020
J. Ruth Littlejohn
Stacy McBride
2019
Hope Blackley-Logan
Elaine Smith
2018
Valerie Manatis Barnet
Mary Ann Deku
Marsha H. Gibbs
2017
Rep. Rita Ann Allison
Robyn Hussa Farrell
2016
Dr. Gloria Webb Close
Kathy Dunleavy
Dr. Kay E. Woodward
2015
Joy Ayers Couch
Dr. Fern Powell
2014
Ruth L. Cate*
Renee Buyck Romberger
2013
Randi Berry
Susu Johnson
*deceased
