Girl Scouts San Diego recognized 11 “Cool Women” of San Diego women and one “Cool Girl” on Tuesday for their achievements, contributions to the San Diego community and status as role models.
“We’re proud to honor these exemplary women for their extraordinary leadership and community service,” said Jo Dee C. Jacob, chief executive officer of Girl Scouts San Diego. “Our Cool Women’s personal and professional lives make them consummate role models for girls.”
The 15th annual ceremony took place at the Del Mar Country Club in Rancho Santa Fe before a luncheon of several hundred. The 11 women recognized are:
- Karen Archipley, co-founder of Archi’s Acres, a hydro-organic farm
- Rabbi Cantor Arlene Bernstein of Congregation Beth Israel
- Lesley Cohn, co-founder of Cohn Restaurant Group
- Dr. Karen S. Haynes, president of California State University San Marcos
- Reena Horowitz, businesswoman, philanthropist and jewelry designer
- Awetash Keflezighi, an Eritrean immigrant whose 11 accomplished children include legendary marathoner Meb Keflezighi
- Carol Lazier, president of the San Diego Opera board of directors
- Susan Salka, CEO and president of AMN Healthcare
- Rose Schindler, a Holocaust survivor and educator
- Sue Swenson, a pioneer in the wireless industry
- Carmen Vann, a Turner Construction project executive whose projects include the San Diego Central Library
Schindler, who survived the Auschwitz death camp in World War II, received a standing ovation after her award.
In addition to the 11 women, Del Norte High School junior Elena Crespo of Rancho Bernardo was named the Cool Girl of 2015. As a Girl Scout, she developed a computer lab for a school in Panama using computers donated by Cal State San Marcos.
