Girls Inc. of Columbus & Phenix-Russell Names Danita Gibson Lloyd as CEO

The Board of Directors of Girls Inc. of Columbus & Phenix-Russell has appointed Danita Gibson Lloyd as chief executive officer.

Lloyd has served as interim CEO and chief operating officer during a period of strategic transition. Previously, she worked as COO under former CEO Dr. Gail Burgos, helping expand the agency’s reach and operational capacity.

“We are confident that Mrs. Gibson Lloyd’s visionary leadership and deep community ties will elevate our mission to inspire all girls to be strong, smart, and bold,” Board President Carmen Buckner said. “Her ability to connect across sectors and build trust in the community makes her the ideal leader for this next chapter.”

Lloyd brings more than 30 years of professional experience across the financial services, nonprofit, communications and insurance sectors. A licensed life insurance agent and seasoned business strategist, she has led multimillion-dollar fundraising initiatives, cultivated major community partnerships and developed innovative programs for women, youth and underserved populations.

“This is more than a role — it’s a return to purpose,” Lloyd said. “Having once been a Girls Club member, I know what it feels like to be seen, heard and empowered in this space. The girls we serve are not just participants — they are our future, our community daughters. They are my ‘why.’ I want them to know there are no limits to what they can become.”

Lloyd holds a master’s degree from Columbia University and a bachelor’s degree from Clemson University. She is a graduate of the ABA School of BankCard Management and has served in leadership, teaching and communications roles at organizations including the Columbus Botanical Gardens, Peaceful River Residential Services, The Menefee Group of Farmers Insurance, TSYS, Primerica Financial Services and DGL Communications. She has taught at several colleges and universities, including Columbus Technical College, Miller-Motte College, Columbus College, University of Phoenix and San Diego City College.

She currently serves as chair of the board of the Urban League of the River Valley and is a member of the Rotary Club of Columbus. She is a Leadership Georgia alumna and former chair of its selection committee. Her honors include recognition from the Girl Scouts of Concharty Council, the Community Pearl Foundation, the Lizzie Bell Midwife Foundation and the National Association of Business and Professional Women.

Lloyd said she plans to strengthen alumnae engagement, renew donor relationships and forge new strategic partnerships as the organization approaches its 75th anniversary.

Founded in 1952, Girls Inc. of Columbus & Phenix-Russell provides programs, mentorship and leadership development for girls in high-need communities across Muscogee and Russell counties. Notable alumnae include Rozonda “Chili” Thomas of the R&B group TLC; WNBA player Makayla Timpson; Grammy-winning songwriter and producer Atia “Ink” Boggs; Crystal Shahid, market president at Truist Bank; and Dr. Kia Chambers, past president of the Muscogee County School Board.

For more information, visit www.girlsinc-columbus.org or follow Girls Inc. of Columbus on Facebook.