The Girl Scouts of Western New York (GSWNY) has announced the appointment of Cara Biddlecom as the new CEO.
A Western New York native, former Girl Scout, and experienced public health leader, Biddlecom brings a deep commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders.
“Cara brings a wealth of experience and an impressive public health leadership and innovation background. Her strategic management skills, commitment to equity, and ability to build strong partnerships make her an excellent fit for our organization,” said Lynn M. Lubecki, president of the Board of Directors for GSWNY.
Biddlecom holds a Master of Public Health in Health Behavior from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Evergreen State College. She has held several executive positions, most recently as Interim Public Health Director at the Oregon Health Authority, where she led a team of over 1,000 employees, a biennial budget of $1.5B, and supported over 100 unique programs that collectively served all 4.2M Oregonians, such as drinking water services, newborn bloodspot screening, maternal and child health home visiting, school-based health centers and more
With her extensive experience and a clear vision for the future, Biddlecom is poised to lead GSWNY into a new era of growth and impact.
“My career has always been driven by a passion for supporting individuals and communities in reaching their fullest potential, and I am excited to bring that passion to the Girl Scouts of Western New York,” she said. “I am committed to expanding our reach across the entire Western New York region and ensuring that every young person in our community has the opportunity to become a leader in their own right.”
As CEO, Biddlecom will oversee all aspects of GSWNY’s operations, including strategic planning, program development, and community outreach. She is particularly focused on enhancing the organization’s programs to better meet the evolving needs of Girl Scouts today, including initiatives around STEM education, mental health, and civic engagement.
Biddlecom’s connection to the region further strengthens her commitment to the role. Her parents were lifelong educators in Western New York. Growing up in a family dedicated to education and community service has deeply influenced her leadership style and her dedication to making a positive impact. As a parent of two young children, Biddlecom is especially committed to creating a bright future for the next generation.
Girl Scouts of Western New York (GSWNY) serves Girl Scouts and adult volunteers across the GSWNY jurisdiction, including Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Niagara, Orleans and Wyoming counties. The council’s administrative service centers are located in Buffalo, Jamestown, Lockport, Niagara Falls, and Rochester.
To volunteer, reconnect, donate, or join, visit www.gswny.org or call 1-888-837-6410.