Marisa C. Williams

2025-2026 Obama Foundation USA Leader

Headshot of Marisa C. Williams, 2025-2026 Obama Foundation USA Leader

CEO, Girl Scouts River Valleys

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Marisa C. Williams is the chief executive officer at Girl Scouts River Valleys, where she empowers girls to realize their potential as leaders through workforce development programs, mentorship, and trades training. Spearheading the Girl Scouts' mission across 36 midwestern counties, she forged the Girl Scouts Leadership Institute's groundbreaking partnership with St. Catherine University, establishing a comprehensive leadership development strategy for girls from kindergarten through college. Under her guidance of the Girl Scout’s Power Girls program, more than 500 girls in the Twin Cities and surrounding rural areas have benefited from mentorship and gained exposure to careers in the trades.

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Meet the 2025-2026 United States Leaders

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Leaders

For emerging leaders who have demonstrated a commitment to advancing the common good.

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  • The Center
  • Building the Center
Future water terrace to honor Ann Dunham will feature Maya Lin sculpture

Join other Obama alumni in coming together to support the naming of the Water Terrace at the Obama Presidential Center in honor of the life and legacy of President Obama’s mother, Ann Dunham—as a gift for the President’s 61st birthday.

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  • Defending Democracy
  • Leaders
Copenhagen Democracy Summit
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  • Barack Obama
Watch: President Obama shares the vision of the presidential center

Watch President Obama share his vision for the Obama Presidential Center during a surprise visit with supporters and stakeholders—a vision for a public space that will honor history, help revitalize the South Side, and connect people throughout the communi

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