Girls on the Run Northeast Wisconsin is pleased to announce the appointment of Tania Spofford as its new Executive Director.
Spofford brings a deep passion for youth development and over 20 years of leadership experience in the nonprofit sector.
“I am honored and excited to step into this role,” said Spofford. “I am committed to creating opportunities for young people to thrive and eager to advance the mission of Girls on the Run in Northeast Wisconsin.”
As Executive Director, Spofford will lead the organization’s strategic growth, program expansion, and community partnerships across its nine-county service area, which includes Brown, Calumet, Door, Kewaunee, Manitowoc, Outagamie, Sheboygan, Waupaca, and Winnebago counties. Spofford’s background includes leadership roles in human service agencies, regional healthcare systems, nonprofit collaboratives, and youth-focused initiatives. She holds a B.A. in Art and an M.S. in Organizational Change Leadership, along with specialized training in organizational development, community organizing, facilitation methods, and leadership coaching. Her experience in youth program development and leadership training aligns seamlessly with the mission of Girls on the Run.
“We are thrilled to welcome Tania to the Girls on the Run family,” said Board President Brenda Karls-Skalecki. “Her expertise in nonprofit leadership and passion for empowering young girls make her the ideal leader to guide our organization into its next phase of impact and growth.”
Since its founding in 2012, Girls on the Run Northeast Wisconsin has positively impacted the health and confidence of over 5,000 girls. As part of Girls on the Run International, the nonprofit empowers girls ages 8-13 through an innovative, experience-based curriculum that integrates social-emotional learning, life skills, and physical activity.
In today’s rapidly changing world, young people face increasing challenges, from the lingering effects of the pandemic to the influence of social media. Girls on the Run provides them with critical tools to build confidence, develop emotional intelligence, and make intentional decisions. Participants also engage in community service projects and complete the program with a non-competitive, celebratory 5K event—a powerful experience that reinforces their sense of achievement and personal growth.