In 2019, a bold and inspiring chapter began in Lafayette when the Tzortzis and Mlynek families co-founded one of the region’s first all-girls Scouts BSA troops. What began as a daughter’s simple request—“I want to join Boy Scouts”—quickly transformed into a pioneering effort that has since created a lasting legacy of empowerment, leadership, and community for young women. What emerged wasn’t just a troop—it was a thriving community where young women lead, explore, and rise.
Heather and Chris Tzortzis, longtime supporters of Scouting America through their son Tristan’s experience in Troop 204, were no strangers to the transformative power of BSA. Tristan, who earned his Eagle rank in 2018, often inspired his three younger sisters with stories of high-adventure treks, leadership opportunities, and the tight-knit camaraderie in Scouting. When the BSA officially opened its ranks to girls in 2018, it was a natural next step for the Tzortzis' to bring that same opportunity to their three daughters—and other girls in their community.
“When our daughter said she wanted to join, we realized there wasn’t a girls’ troop nearby,” said Scoutmaster Heather, who had previously led a Girl Scout troop. “So we decided to start one.”
The Tzortzis family reached out to like-minded families, including the Mlyneks—Christine, Marie, and John—who also had sons in Scouting and daughters ready for the challenge. Together, the Tzortzis and Mlynek families worked tirelessly to plan, organize, and charter what would become Troop 402. With support from Troop 204, they laid the groundwork for a new kind of Scouting experience: one rooted in tradition but adapted for a modern vision.
At the heart of Troop 402’s success are the young women who stepped up to lead from the beginning. Alexia Tzortzis, now 22, was the troop’s inaugural Senior Patrol Leader(SPL) and one of its first Eagle Scouts. Alongside Christine Mlynek, also a founding SPL, Alexia helped build the very culture that defines the troop today—a place where structure meets freedom, and where leadership is learned through experience.
“They didn’t just create a troop,” Heather reflects, “they created a home—a place where scouts could be their full selves, take risks, and grow.”
Amaia Tzortzis, now a graduating senior and Junior Assistant Scoutmaster, exemplifies the kind of confident, capable leader the troop was designed to foster. Over her years in the troop, she has held nearly every leadership position and earned her Eagle rank while mentoring dozens of younger scouts.
“Amaia doesn’t just lead—she connects. Scouts follow her because they trust her —she makes learning fun and meaningful,” said Heather.
The next generation is already stepping up, with Alina Tzortzis now serving as the troop’s SPL. Known for her adaptability and creative leadership, Alina has a knack for managing the complex logistics of a troop that regularly sees over 50 scouts at meetings.
Under the founding families' leadership, Troop 402 quickly became known for its supportive environment; from the start, the adults worked intentionally to create a space where girls felt safe, respected, and empowered.
“Our troop is kind by design,” said Heather. “We don’t tolerate negativity, and we work hard to make sure every scout feels they belong.”
Launching the troop wasn’t easy. The proposal to charter a girls’ troop sparked debate within the existing organization, but after three months of meticulous planning, discussions, and refining their vision, the charter was approved by a single vote.
Since its founding, Troop 402 has grown tremendously, both in numbers and impact. The program has welcomed over a hundred girls, offering them the full range of BSA experiences—from 50-mile hikes to snow camping, spelunking, and everything in between.
Though the path to founding the troop was full of unknowns, the rewards have been extraordinary.
“Watching these girls grow into confident, compassionate, and capable leaders has been the greatest gift,” Heather shared, “This program changed their lives—it changed mine.”
For those considering starting a troop, Heather offers this advice: “Make every meeting matter. Build a culture rooted in kindness. And remember—you’re not alone. There’s a whole Scouting community ready to support you.”