Girls Inc. of Chattanooga on Sunday named Toccora Johnson as the chief executive officer of the organization, according to a news release.
"Girls Inc. is excited to begin its 60th anniversary with Johnson at the helm and optimistic for the future of the organization under her leadership," the release states.
Having been involved with Girls Inc. for more than a decade, Johnson served as senior director of program operations before her recent role as interim chief executive officer.
"During my time as interim CEO, I have had the privilege of leading our dedicated staff, who work towards a goal to ensure that all girls have the opportunities, experiences, and role models to lead fulfilling and productive lives" Johnson said in a statement. "Throughout the years we have celebrated remarkable achievements, but I am most proud of the way our organization has responded during this time and humbled by the support I have received from the staff, the board, and our supporters."
Girls Inc. cited Johnson's demonstrated passion and vision as interim chief executive officer as factors that "embody the strength, passion, and perseverance Girls Inc. was searching for in a CEO," according to the release.
"She proved she could expand her connections and relationships within the community and continued to provide opportunity and growth for the organization," Rachael Welch, Girls Inc.'s board chairwoman, said in a statement.
The organization was founded as Girls Club of Chattanooga on Feb. 15, 1961, by the Chattanooga Businesswomen's Club. It offers various programs to equip girls in the Chattanooga area to become leaders in different sectors of society. Girls. Inc. continues to offer in-school, after-school and virtual learning programs amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Johnson holds a master's degree in public health from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville and is a graduate of the Chattanooga Leadership Academy.