CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – The Girl Scouts of Southern Appalachians honored Dr. Edna Varner at the 2025 Trefoil Society Luncheon in Chattanooga, celebrating her lifelong dedication to education, leadership, and community service.
Held at the Waterhouse Pavilion, the annual event recognizes a distinguished woman in each region who exemplifies the spirit and values of Girl Scouting.
A Chattanooga native, Dr. Edna Varner was the first in her family to attend college.
Over her 30-year career, she served as a teacher, administrator, and principal of The Howard School, and helped found the Chattanooga School for the Arts & Sciences.
She continues to mentor educators as a senior advisor with the Public Education Foundation.
Her influence extends well beyond the classroom.
Dr. Varner serves on numerous boards, including ArtsBuild, the Chattanooga Rotary Club, the UC Foundation, and the Chattanooga Housing Authority.
During today’s luncheon, she was also named an honorary member of the Girl Scout Sisterhood, recognizing her commitment to leadership, service, and empowering young women across the region.
Guests also heard from 2025 Gold Award Girl Scout Anna Catherine Critchfield, who shared how Girl Scouts has helped her grow as a leader and community volunteer.
Organizers say this year’s luncheon aims to raise $20,000 to support local Girl Scout programs, and the event has already surpassed the halfway mark toward that goal.
