Frances Hesselbein

Frances Hesselbein is one of the most highly respected experts in contemporary leadership development. She currently serves as the President and CEO of The Frances Hesselbein Leadership Institute, which was initially founded as The Peter F. Drucker Foundation for Nonprofit Management. The institute was renamed in 2012 to honor Hesselbein's legacy and ongoing contributions to leadership.

In 1998, Frances Hesselbein was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the United States. This recognition was in appreciation of her leadership as the CEO of Girl Scouts of the U.S.A. from 1976 to 1990. Her service was acknowledged not only for her role in the Girl Scouts but also as a "pioneer for women, volunteerism, diversity, and opportunity."

Her contributions were further acknowledged by the first President Bush, who appointed her to two Presidential Commissions on National and Community Service. In 2009, the University of Pittsburgh established The Hesselbein Global Academy for Student Leadership and Civic Engagement, aimed at producing experienced and ethical leaders addressing critical national and international issues.

In the same year, Frances Hesselbein began a two-year appointment as the Class of 1951 Chair for the Study of Leadership at the United States Military Academy at West Point. Her appointment marked a historic moment as she became the first woman and the first non-graduate to serve in this prestigious chair.