October 27, 2025
ANN ARBOR, MI — Girls Group is proud to announce that its founder and Executive Director, Sue Schooner, has been named a recipient of the 2025 Youth Impact Award by the Michigan Community Service Commission. This prestigious recognition will be presented at the Governor’s Service Awards on November 12 at the Kellogg Center in East Lansing.
The Youth Impact Award honors individuals that have made a profound difference in the lives of young people through service, mentorship, and leadership. Sue Schooner’s selection reflects her unwavering commitment to empowering young women in Washtenaw County and beyond.
Since founding Girls Group in 2003, Sue has dedicated herself to creating a safe, supportive, and transformative space for youth to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially. Under her leadership, Girls Group has grown from a single weekly gathering to a robust organization serving hundreds of students annually through year-round programming focused on college and career readiness, social-emotional wellness, and community engagement.
“Sue Schooner turned compassion into action and vision into opportunity, “said Board Treasurer, Jamie Guise. Her work through Girls Group continues to empower young women to reach higher, dream bigger, and lead with confidence.”
Governor Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Community Service Commission selected 13 honorees across the state for their outstanding contributions to volunteerism, service, and philanthropy. The Governor’s Service Awards have recognized Michigan’s most dedicated changemakers since 1994.
“We are thrilled to see Sue’s legacy of youth empowerment celebrated on a statewide stage,” said Kris Maly, former long-term Girls Group Board of Directors member. “Her passionate and committed work reminds us that when we invest in young people, we invest in a stronger, more equitable future for all.”
To learn more about the Governor’s Service Awards and view the full list of 2025 honorees, visit Michigan.gov/GovernorsServiceAwards.
From 2003 to today, Sue has been cheering on young women every step of the way.
About Girls Group
Girls Group empowers young women to achieve emotional and economic independence by ensuring they graduate from high school and begin their college or career journeys. Founded in 2003 and based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Girls Group provides year-round programming focused on academic success, social-emotional wellness, leadership development, and community engagement. Serving hundreds of participants annually across Washtenaw County, Girls Group creates a safe, inclusive space where youth are supported, challenged, and celebrated.
Learn more at GirlsGroup.org
Media Contact:
Sarah Lesch, Girls Group
734-476-0701 • [email protected]