Courtesy Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania

Girl Scout ambassador Kara Dorman meets with President Ann Weaver Hart in preparation for the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania Take the Lead awards luncheon.

President Ann Weaver Hart was honored Tuesday as a recipient of the 2011 Take the Lead award from the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania (GSEP).

The award recognizes women of courage, character and confidence — role models and leaders who exemplify the ideals the Girl Scouts organization strives to instill in its members.

As Temple’s first female president, and an active member of the Philadelphia community, Hart has worked to bring excellent educational opportunities to motivated students, encouraged cross-cultural community engagement and turned North Philadelphia into a hub for arts and culture.

In addition to Hart, the GSEP recognized Pamela Browner White, senior vice president of public affairs and government relations, Philadelphia Eagles; Kyra McGrath, executive vice president and COO, WHYY; and Michele Ridge, former first lady of Pennsylvania.

Kara Dorman, a Girl Scout and a senior at Imhotep Charter School in Philadelphia, introduced Hart at the ceremony. In preparing for the honor, Dorman had interviewed the university president and said she got to know her as a leader and as a person.

"I was inspired to see a scholarly woman so determined to make a difference,” Dorman said. “She shared advice given to her by her mentor in graduate school, who said, 'If you think failure is the final destination, then you have closed the door on opportunity.' Dr. Hart has motivated me ... to be persistent, passionate and determined to succeed."

The ceremony itself was an exercise in leadership for several local scouts. Thirty-five girls ages 9-18 helped run the program as emcees, presenters, table advocates, hosts, color guard and members of the chorus. The presenters were given the opportunity to shadow the recipients at work, getting a taste of day-to-day business operations.

“The Take the Lead experience culminates in girl-led events that make a lasting impression,” said GSEP CEO Natalye Paquin, Esq. “It becomes a true celebration of the girls’ potential as our future leaders.”

—Elizabeth DiPardo