FORWARD 48 - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- CEO at Husco International
Ramirez graduated from the University of Virginia with a degree in Systems engineering and spent two years working as a consultant at the San Francisco office of McKinsey and Company, a global management consulting firm.[1]
Ramirez worked for a year as a project manager at Husco, then went to graduate school at Stanford Graduate School of Business in Palo Alto, California[1] as a Goldman Sachs Fellow and graduated as an Arjay Miller Scholar.
Ramirez became CEO of Husco's automotive business in 2008.[1]
Previously Ramirez was a freestyle swimmer from United States. He represented his native country at the 1998 World Aquatics Championships in Perth, Western Australia, competing in two individual events (5 km).
Ramirez sits on a number of education-focused boards including: Teach for America, Boys and Girls Clubs, YMCA, and United Performing Arts Fund. He is also director of the Greater Milwaukee Committee, Metropolitan Milwaukee Chamber of Commerce and Young Presidents' Organization.
Job Titles:
- Director of Athletics at University of Wisconsin - Madison
- Director of Athletics for the University of Wisconsin - Madison ( Retired )
Barry Alvarez concluded his 32nd year at the University of Wisconsin in 2021, including his 18th as Director of Athletics and after serving as head football coach for 16 seasons (1990-2005). Alvarez served as A.D. and football coach from April 1, 2004 to Jan. 2, 2006. Alvarez announced his retirement on April 6, 2021 and concluded his championship career leading the Badgers on June 30, 2021. Learn more about his three decades of excellence.
Wisconsin Athletics has been transformed since Alvarez's arrival in January of 1990. What was once a department that was in debt and struggling for fan support and to compete in the Big Ten is now a nationally-recognized brand with broad-based success and a legendary following.
At the heart of that revival has been the football program. Prior to 1990, UW had played in a total of six bowl games. In the four seasons before Alvarez took the reins, the Badgers had compiled a 9-36 (.200) record. However, in just his third season in Madison, Alvarez led Wisconsin to the first Rose Bowl victory in school history. Since that season, the football team has played in 26 bowl games (including a Big Ten-best 19 straight) and won six Big Ten titles. Prior to Alvarez's arrival, the school record for wins in a season was nine, last accomplished in 1901. Since 1993, UW has won at least 10 games 13 times.
One of just 16 football coaches in Big Ten history to win at least 100 games at one school, Alvarez retired from coaching after the 2005 season as Wisconsin's all-time winningest coach with a record of 119-74-4 (includes two games as acting head coach - 2013 Rose Bowl and 2015 Outback Bowl). He led the Badgers to three Big Ten titles, three Rose Bowl victories and coached one of the school's two Heisman Trophy winners, running back Ron Dayne (1999). Alvarez was voted into the state of Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame and the Rose Bowl Hall of Fame in 2009, the College Football Hall of Fame and UW Athletics Hall of Fame in 2010, and the Orange Bowl Hall of Fame in 2016.
Alvarez was named Director of Athletics following Pat Richter's retirement and officially took over the position on April 1, 2004. He spent the 2004 and 2005 seasons in the dual roles of Director of Athletics and head football coach. On July 28, 2005, he announced that the upcoming football season would be his final one as head coach and he would transition to serving solely as Director of Athletics at the conclusion of the season.
Wisconsin has enjoyed remarkable success during Alvarez's tenure at the head of the athletic department, winning a combined 16 team national titles and 74 conference regular-season or tournament crowns. In 2017-18, he earned Under Armour Athletic Director of the Year honors.
In addition to the sustained success of the football program, which has appeared in six New Year's Six bowl games since 2010, Wisconsin has experienced consistent success across the board in Alvarez's 18 years as Director of Athletics. The men's basketball team has played in 15 NCAA tournaments, including back-to-back Final Fours in 2014 and 2015, and won five Big Ten titles (three regular season and two tournament crowns). Alvarez has been a part of an unprecedented run of success in football and men's basketball. Since 1993-94, when Wisconsin won its first Rose Bowl Game, the Badgers have made a combined 49 appearances in bowl games (26) and NCAA men's basketball tournaments (23), the most in the country (Florida and Texas are tied for second with 46 combined appearances). Prior to 1993-94, Wisconsin had played in six bowl games and two NCAA tournaments.
Job Titles:
- Chairman
- Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Mandel Group Inc
- President at Mandel Group
Barry Mandel is Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Mandel Group Inc. (MGI), an integrated real estate services firm with operations in development, construction, and property management. MGI's primary focus is on urban in-fill and suburban/urban node luxury multifamily rental communities and mixed-use developments, as well as its Midwest Multi-family Acquisition Platform. MGI has developed and/or acquired over $1.5 billion of real estate since its inception. Prior to MGI, Mandel was managing residential partner for Trammell Crow Residential in Wisconsin and additionally responsible for operations in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He began his career as an attorney practicing tax, corporate, and real estate law in Kansas City, Missouri.
Mandel has been featured in numerous periodicals and has received several prestigious local awards for his contributions to development in Milwaukee. In 2016, Mandel and MGI received an award "for his commitment and support to make the Milwaukee Riverwalk a better place to live, work and play." In 2018, MGI's Milwaukee Riverwalk received the ULI Global Award for Excellence. He is a member of the Urban Land Institute and past chair of the ULI Multifamily Gold and Green councils. Mandel is a member of the National Association of Home Builders and the National Multi-Housing Council. He earned his bachelor's degree in economics from University of Wisconsin and his law degree from Georgetown University Law Center.
Job Titles:
- Member of the General Board of the Church of God
Bishop Hines as a member of the General Board of the Church of God in Christ (COGIC). He previously served as an Auxiliary Bishop by the appointment of the late Bishop Gilbert L. Patterson where one of his primary functions was to host the annual COGIC Men's Conference.
Job Titles:
- Director for C. G. Schmidt
- Executive Director at Milwaukee Brewers Community Foundation
- Senior Level Executive
Cecelia Gore is a senior level executive with extensive experience leading community/external affairs, foundation and sports philanthropy. She leads strategic change and transformation in her current philanthropic role with the Brewers Community Foundation, the charitable arm of Milwaukee Brewers Baseball Club. Gore maintains operational excellence, consistently advises on innovative strategies which support efforts to achieve recognition as a strong corporate citizen, and engages in activities that support the community. Gore previously represented one of the largest independent and most active foundations in the history of Greater Milwaukee philanthropy, the Jane Bradley Pettit Foundation where she led grant-making and managed board relations. She has served as a board member and committee chair for numerous nonprofit organizations.
Currently, Gore serves as a director for C. G. Schmidt, a family owned/private construction company as well as Froedtert Hospital, The Greater Milwaukee Foundation, Sojourner Family Peace Center, Milwaukee Film and Alverno College. She has received numerous awards and recognition including a Doctor of Humane Letters, Honoris Causa from Carroll University. She looks forward to serving as co-chair of the 2019 United Way Campaign. Gore resides in Milwaukee, WI with her husband, Randy Bryant.
Job Titles:
- Founder & Managing Director at Generation Growth Capital Inc
Nettles currently serves as a board member for several corporate, private, and nonprofit organizations, including Weyco Group, Inc., Robert W. Baird's Baird Funds, Inc., Associated Bank, N.A., the United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County (Immediate Past Board Chair), Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee, Milwaukee World Festival, Inc., Teach For America, Lawrence University (Board Vice Chair), the Medical College of Wisconsin (Immediate Past Board Chair), the Greater Milwaukee Foundation (Past Board Chair), the University of Wisconsin Foundation, and Usher's New Look Foundation
Nettles graduated magna cum laude from Lawrence University in Appleton, WI, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison Law School. Nettles has received several awards and distinctions. He is married to Michelle S. Nettles. Michelle is the Chief People and Culture Officer for ManpowerGroup. They live in Milwaukee, WI.
Job Titles:
- Founder and Managing Director of Generation Growth Capital, Inc
Job Titles:
- Bishop & Founder at Christian Faith Fellowship Church / Bishop Darrell L. Hines Is a Man of Vision, Purpose, and Prayer. His Primary Mission Is to Tell a Dying World about a Living Christ
Darrell Hines Ministries is the global evangelistic ministry instrumental in affecting people of various backgrounds. Hines is widely recognized for cutting-edge preaching, and messages of salvation and hope that are delivered through various media outlets. In 1989 he founded Christian Faith Fellowship Church (CFFC) with his wife Pamela. CFFC provides a myriad of outreach efforts garnered by Bishop and Pastor Hines through CORE - Community, Outreach, Resource and Education a four-point plan to proclaim the Word of God, uplift the family, and provide ministry to the total man.
Job Titles:
- Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Gruber Law Offices
David's legal success, experience, and expertise has resulted in a very successful, respected, trusted and popular law firm. Gruber Law Offices is a family-owned, family-oriented, award-winning law firm with a national reputation for excellence. David has received numerous prestigious awards and designations. Among them, he has been honored as a National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 Trial Lawyers, an invitation-only organization composed of the premier trial lawyers from each state. The requirements are that the members must possess the "knowledge, skill, experience and success held by only the finest and best lawyers in America." Membership is extended solely to the "most qualified attorneys from each state who demonstrate superior qualifications of leadership, reputation, influence, stature and public profile."
David has also been named as the Best Personal Injury Attorney in Milwaukee, among other community and legal awards. He also belongs to several private groups comprised of the top personal injury lawyers in America.
As Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Gruber Law Offices, David prides himself on leading a compassionate, yet very aggressive, team of over 130 professional team and attorneys that share his unbridled passion for helping the "underdog." Gruber Law Offices is fully committed to getting injured victims the compensation they deserve.
David has spent decades establishing a team of top-notch lawyers and professionals. The lawyers at Gruber Law Offices have won numerous prestigious awards, affiliations and memberships over the years. Our team of lawyers has members included in the Million Dollar Advocates Forum where membership is limited only to lawyers who have won multi-million dollar settlements on behalf of their clients. In the United States, less than one percent of attorneys are members of this exclusive group. In addition, many of our lawyers are members of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers in America, The Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys, Wisconsin Super Lawyers®, Top 100 Best Trial Lawyers in America, National Trial Lawyers Top 25 Motor Vehicle Trial Lawyers, and Top 25 Brain Injury Lawyers, among many more exclusive organizations.
Job Titles:
- Chief Development Officer
Job Titles:
- Vice Chancellor at the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
- Vice Chancellor of Global Inclusion Engagement, University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
- Vince Chancellor of Global Inclusion and Engagement at University of Wisconsin Madison
On September 12, 2012, Dr. Joan M. Prince was nominated by President Barack Obama to the key administrative post of alternate representative to the 67th General Assembly of the United Nations with the honorary rank of ambassador. This diplomatic position also maintained an appointment as a senior advisor to the State Department and Public Delegate. In her roles as a public delegate, she served as a United States representative to UN committees and related organizations such as ECOSOC, UN Women, UNESCO, and UNICEF delivering statements on U.S. policy and engaged other diplomats and advisors in discussions focusing on global issues. She also served in an advisory capacity to the 2013 United States Delegation to the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW).
In her professional career, Dr. Prince serves as vice chancellor at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, appointed in 2000. She is the chief administrator for the Divisions of Global Inclusion and Engagement and Partnerships and Innovation, with responsibilities as the chief inclusion officer. She also leads campus-wide project areas such as the STEM Inspire Pipeline, the Inclusive Internationalization Project, Global Partnerships in STEM, Center for International Health, Carnegie Engagement Classification team, Center for Community Solutions, and Equity/Diversity Services. Her discipline focus is as a clinical associate professor in medical laboratory sciences, with a specialty in hematology.
Prior to this, Dr. Prince held responsibilities as the project director, lead strategist and implementer for the Health Professions Partnerships Initiative collaborative at the University of Wisconsin Medical School, as well as a clinical laboratory supervisor for a five-hospital regional health care system in Milwaukee. A native of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Prince was the first African American recipient of a bachelor's degree in medical technology and master's in clinical laboratory sciences, with a specialty in hematology and flow cytometry from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. She also holds a doctorate degree in urban education with a specialty in medical science education from UWM. She has been acknowledged as a 2007 Aspen Institute Fellow, a 2008 member of the International Jewish Council's Civic Leadership delegation to Israel, a fellow of the Millennium Leadership Institute Class of 2009 for higher education executives, and a 2011-12 Fellow of the American Council on Education.
Prince is a former member of many civic boards, including her local leadership roles as a board trustee emeritus of The Greater Milwaukee Foundation and emeritus board chair and current member of the Milwaukee Public Library Board. She is also president emeritus of the global women's networking organization Tempo International and board member emeritus of the international foundation membership association The Council on Foundations where she served as governance chair. She is a past board chair of the Urban Libraries Council (www.ulc.org).
Job Titles:
- Vice President for Inclusion & Diversity at Burlington Stores, Inc
Dr. Timothy J. Fair, Ph.D., is a recognized leader in the field of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) with a strong commitment to driving positive change in organizations and communities. With extensive experience in both corporate and academic settings, Dr. Fair brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role as a faculty member for Forward 48.
Dr. Fair's career has been dedicated to advancing DEI initiatives and fostering inclusive environments. He currently serves as the Vice President of DEI at Burlington, a national brand based in New Jersey with a remarkable track record of success. In this role, he leads efforts to promote diversity and inclusion within the organization, working to create a workplace culture that values and respects the contributions of all employees.
Prior to joining Burlington, Dr. Fair held positions at leading organizations where he focused on DEI strategy and implementation. His background includes serving as an instructor for Cornell University's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion courses, where he shared his expertise with future leaders in the field.
In addition to his professional work, Dr. Fair is actively involved in community initiatives aimed at promoting diversity and inclusion. He is passionate about creating opportunities for underrepresented groups and has been involved in various programs and projects that support this mission.
Dr. Fair's commitment to DEI extends beyond his professional endeavors. He is deeply engaged in research and scholarship related to diversity and inclusion issues, with a focus on advancing the understanding of these topics in academic and corporate settings. His work has been published in reputable journals and has contributed to the broader conversation on DEI best practices.
As a member of the Forward 48 faculty, Dr. Fair brings a unique perspective and valuable insights that will enrich the learning experience for program participants. His dedication to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion aligns with Forward 48's mission to develop the next generation of leaders who are equipped to create positive change in their organizations and communities. Dr. Fair's expertise and leadership will undoubtedly make a significant impact on the program and its participants.
Job Titles:
- President & CEO of Greater Milwaukee Foundation
As President and CEO since 2010, Ellen has amplified the Greater Milwaukee Foundation's role as a leader, convener and catalyst, bringing community together around a shared vision for a vibrant region. She has advanced a new era at the Foundation where racial equity and inclusion is the North Star that guides decision-making, investment and action across the organization. Her tenure has been marked by growth, collaboration and a deep commitment to strategies that foster access to opportunity, strengthen the community and improve lives. In 2020, Ellen led the launch of the Foundation's new strategic vision of A Milwaukee for All to focus philanthropy on mending the fault line of systemic racism that prevents individuals, families and the region from reaching their full potential.
Job Titles:
- Executive Chairman
- CEO at WEC Energy Group
- Member of the Board of Directors of Associated Banc - Corp
- Wisconsin Energy As President
Gale Klappa was appointed executive chairman and to the Office of the Chair of WEC Energy Group by the board of directors, effective Feb. 1, 2019.
Klappa previously served as chairman and chief executive officer of WEC Energy Group after being reappointed by the board of directors in October 2017 to provide continuity following his successor suffering a medical setback. Prior to his reappointment, Klappa served as non-executive chairman of WEC Energy Group after retiring as CEO in May 2016.
Klappa joined Wisconsin Energy as president in April 2003. He was elected to the company's board of directors in December 2003.
Klappa is a 1972 graduate cum laude of the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee (UWM), with a bachelor's degree in mass communications.
Klappa is a member of the board of directors of Associated Banc-Corp and Badger Meter Inc. He is co-chair of the Milwaukee 7. In addition, Klappa owns a minority interest in the Milwaukee Bucks - a National Basketball Association franchise.
In 2018, Klappa was also named CEO of the Year by CEO Monthly Magazine for the Most Outstanding Energy Delivery Holding Company.
Job Titles:
- Chairman and CEO of Johnson Controls
George R. Oliver is chairman and CEO of Johnson Controls. Prior to becoming CEO on Sept. 1, 2017, he served as president and chief operating officer with responsibility for the company's operating businesses and leading the integration of Johnson Controls and Tyco following their September 2016 merger.
Oliver previously served as chief executive officer of Tyco and as a member of its Board of Directors from September 2012 through the September 2016 merger with Johnson Controls. He joined Tyco in July 2006 as president of Tyco Safety Products and assumed additional responsibility as president of Tyco Electrical & Metal Products from 2007 through 2010. He was appointed president of Tyco Fire Protection in 2011.
Prior to Tyco, Oliver had a more than 20-year career with General Electric (GE), where he served in operational roles of increasing responsibility in several divisions, including as president and chief executive officer of GE Water and Process Technologies and president and chief executive officer of GE Engine Services, as well as previous leadership roles in GE's Aircraft Engines and Appliances divisions.
Oliver serves on the Board of Directors of Raytheon Company, a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense and other government markets throughout the world. He is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Board of Trustees. Oliver earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute, where he serves as a member of the Board of Trustees.
Job Titles:
- Johnson Controls in 2011 As Vice President and Global General Counsel
- Senior Executive Leader and Corporate Officer of Johnson Controls
- Vice President Public Affairs, Chief Diversity Officer and President, Johnson Controls Foundation
- Vice President, Public Affairs, Chief Diversity Officer, and President at Johnson Controls
Grady L. Crosby is a dynamic senior executive leader and corporate officer of Johnson Controls driving public affairs, government relations, sustainability and diversity strategies. He is directly responsible for leading Johnson Controls' global diversity and inclusion strategy, sustainability thought leadership, government relations strategies, and its philanthropic endeavors, in order to enhance enterprise business objectives and maintain the company's commitment to social responsibility, community involvement and the environment. Crosby has been vital in leading Johnson Controls' commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce as well as partnering with a diverse vendor/supplier base aligned with company values. In addition, Crosby also leads the Johnson Controls enterprise community marketing and sponsorship capability.
Crosby joined Johnson Controls in 2011 as vice president and global general counsel for the Power Solutions business. In that position he supervised all legal operations and led several key initiatives relative to the growth and future sustainability of the world's largest automotive battery manufacturer. In this role he served as a member of the company's senior legal leadership team providing direct support to the Johnson Controls General Counsel and executive leadership team.
Previously, Crosby held leadership roles within the legal departments of Hanesbrands, Inc., and Sara Lee Corporation and served as General Counsel and Secretary of National Textiles, LLC.
Crosby holds a Juris Doctor from Wake Forest University School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Howard University.
He serves on several prominent non-profit boards, including Chairman - U.N. Global Compact Network USA Froedtert Health, Wisconsin Policy Forum, Executive Diversity Council for the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Wisconsin Center District, VISIT Milwaukee, and the International African American Museum. Crosby is a board advisor on the GRAEF-USA, Inc. Board of Directors. He is also a member of the internationally recognized Executive Leadership Council.
Job Titles:
- Board Chair at American Family Insurance
- Visionary Leader
Jack Salzwedel is a respected figure in the insurance industry, known for his strategic leadership and commitment to driving positive change. As the Chairman of American Family Insurance, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the company's direction and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence. Throughout his career, Jack has demonstrated a deep understanding of the insurance business and a passion for serving customers and communities.
Jack's journey with American Family Insurance began in 1983 when he joined the company as a claim adjuster. Over the years, he has held various roles within the organization, including agent, sales leader, and executive. His extensive experience across different aspects of the insurance business has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of the industry's complexities and challenges.
In his current role as Chairman, Jack is responsible for providing strategic direction and oversight to American Family Insurance. Under his leadership, the company has achieved significant growth and expansion, solidifying its position as a leading insurance provider. Jack's strategic vision has been instrumental in guiding American Family Insurance through periods of change and transformation, ensuring that the company remains agile and responsive to evolving market dynamics.
Beyond his contributions to American Family Insurance, Jack is actively involved in various industry and community organizations. He serves on the boards of several influential organizations, including the Property and Casualty Insurers Association of America and the Insurance Institute. His involvement in these organizations reflects his commitment to advancing the insurance industry and driving positive change on a broader scale.
In addition to his professional endeavors, Jack is dedicated to giving back to the community. He is involved in philanthropic initiatives that focus on education, social welfare, and community development. Through his work with organizations such as the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce and the UW Chancellor's Advisory Board, Jack has made meaningful contributions to the communities in which American Family Insurance operates.
Jack's educational background includes degrees in biology and business administration from Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa. His academic achievements, combined with his extensive industry experience, have positioned him as a respected leader in the insurance sector.
In summary, Jack Salzwedel is a visionary leader with a proven track record of success in the insurance industry. His strategic leadership, combined with his commitment to serving customers and communities, has been instrumental in driving American Family Insurance's growth and success. Jack's contributions to the industry and the community at large have earned him a reputation as a leader who is dedicated to making a positive impact in the world around him.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors for Royal Bank of Canada
Jeff Yabuki is the Former Chairman and CEO of Fiserv, Inc. (NASDAQ: FISV), a global leader in financial services and payments technology, enabling banking, commerce and the safe and secure movement of money among financial institutions, businesses and consumers. Yabuki served as its' Chairman from July 2019 to December 2020; and its' Chief Executive Officer and a member of the Fiserv Board of Directors from 2005 through June 2020.
Under his leadership, the company transformed from a traditional holding company into an integrated operating company focused on driving purposeful innovation to deliver best-in-class financial and payments software, services and solutions that enable financial services and payments experiences at the point of thought.
A member of the FORTUNE 500, Fiserv had $14.4 billion in revenue in 2019, and was recognized in 2020 among FORTUNE® World's Most Admired Companies for an eighth consecutive year and twelve of the last thirteen years. Under Yabuki's leadership the company nearly tripled revenue through the end of 2019 and achieved a total shareholder return of 969%.
Since 2005, the company has grown through a combination of internal investments and strategic acquisitions. Yabuki led the acquisition of First Data in 2019, expanding the company's ability to deliver differentiated value to its clients through market-leading fintech and payments solutions for financial institutions, merchants, businesses and consumers.
Prior to joining Fiserv, Yabuki was Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at H&R Block for more than six years. Before H&R Block, he held a progression of leadership positions during 12 years at American Express culminating in serving as CEO of American Express Tax and Business Services. Prior to that, he spent several years in public accounting and is a CPA.
Yabuki is currently a member of the Board of Directors for Royal Bank of Canada (TSX: RY and NYSE: RY), and is the Chairman of Sportradar, AG. He was previously a director of Petsmart and MBIA and is a trustee and member of the executive committee of the Milwaukee Art Museum.
Job Titles:
- Director of Giving at Herb Kohl Philanthropies
JoAnne Anton works to advance Herb Kohl's philanthropic goals and community involvement. With a bachelor's degree from Marquette University and a master's degree from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's School of Social Welfare, Anton began her career in public service at City Hall as an assistant to former Milwaukee Mayor John Norquist. She has since spent more than two decades working in key positions for (retired) U.S. Senator Herb Kohl.
When Kohl retired from the Senate in 2013 and returned as President to run his NBA basketball franchise, the Milwaukee Bucks, Anton joined the Buck's leadership team. There she assisted in the effort to plan for a new sports arena and ultimately, in the sale of the team.
Today, Anton focuses her efforts on helping Herb Kohl continue his legacy of service through philanthropy.
JoAnne Anton currently serves on the boards of Harbor District Inc, the Greater Milwaukee Committee, First Federal Bank of Wisconsin and the Wisconsin State Fair Park Foundation. She is a past President of Downtown Milwaukee Rotary and a member of Professional Dimensions. JoAnne has been recognized by the Business Journal's 40 Under 40 List and as a Woman of Influence.
Job Titles:
- President
- MCW 's President and CEO
- Member of the Board of Directors of the United Way of Greater Milwaukee
- President Ceo, Medical College of Wisconsin
John R. Raymond, Sr., MD, the Medical College of Wisconsin's (MCW) President and CEO, assumed the position as MCW's sixth President on July 1, 2010. He was previously Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC).
As MCW's President and CEO, Dr. Raymond leads Wisconsin's only private medical school with an operating budget of more than $1.2 billion. More than one half of Wisconsin physicians is an alumnus of MCW. With approximately 6,700 faculty and staff members, MCW is the seventh largest private employer in Metro Milwaukee.
Dr. Raymond is a member of the Board of Directors of the United Way of Greater Milwaukee and Waukesha County and was co-chair of the 2020 United Way Campaign. He also serves on the Board of Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin's Blood Research Institute. He is the Past President of the Board of the American Heart Association of Metro Milwaukee and served as Chair of the American Heart Association's 2011 Milwaukee Heart Walk.
Dr. Raymond has served on the editorial boards of the American Journal of Physiology - Renal Physiology, the Journal of Biological Chemistry and Assay Drug Development Technology. He was selected for membership in the Association of American Physicians, the American Clinical and Climatological Association and the American Society for Clinical Investigation. Among Dr. Raymond's many honors are awards for excellence in leadership, research, mentorship, service, diversity, teaching, and clinical care.
Job Titles:
- President at the Greater Milwaukee Committee
Julia Taylor was appointed as the first woman president of the Greater Milwaukee Committee in December 2002. The GMC promotes collaboration on regional issues and opportunities through its initiatives in education, economic development and effective government. It acts as a creator on initiatives like Teachtown MKE, Scale Up Milwaukee, Innovation in Milwaukee, creative placemaking and the Downtown Task Force. It is a collaborator on projects like Well City Milwaukee, BizStarts and regional transit. It is a catalyst for things like The Water Council and the Milwaukee 7. Many of the initiatives and projects of the GMC fall across two or three of these categories.
Ms. Taylor has served on the boards of Aurora Health Care, Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Governor's Glass Ceiling Commission, the Governor's Work Force Investment Board, and the National Association of YWCA Executives. She serves on the boards of the United Performing Arts Fund, The Water Council, the University Club of Milwaukee and Milwaukee Film, and was co-chair for UPAF's 2009 campaign.
Job Titles:
- Chairman and CEO at Exact Sciences
Kevin Conroy became CEO of Exact Sciences in 2009 and Chairman in 2014, transforming the organization into one of the world's premier cancer diagnostics companies with more than 6,500 employees.
Mr. Conroy led Exact Sciences through the development, clinical trial, regulatory approval, and commercialization of its noninvasive colorectal cancer screening test, Cologuard®. This culminated with Cologuard becoming the first medical device or diagnostic to receive simultaneous FDA approval and national Medicare coverage. Since 2014, millions of Americans have used Cologuard to screen for colorectal cancer, the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States.
Job Titles:
- Managing Director, Chief Investment Officer, Baird Advisors, President of Baird Funds
- Member of the CFA Institute
Mary Ellen Stanek, CFA, has over 41 years of investment management experience. She currently serves as Managing Director of Robert W. Baird & Co. and Chief Investment Officer of Baird Advisors responsible for over $109 billion in assets under management. Additionally, she serves as President of the Baird Funds. Previously she had served as President and CEO of Firstar Investment Research & Management Company.
In 2019 and 2020, Mary Ellen was a finalist for Morningstar's Outstanding Portfolio Manager Award. Under her leadership, the Baird Advisors team was also named a finalist for the Morningstar, Inc.'s 2016 Fixed Income Fund Manager of the Year Award and has also been recognized multiple times as a "Best Place to Work in Money Management" by Pensions & Investments. In 2020, she was named to Barron's inaugural list of the 100 Most Influential Women in U.S. Finance.
Mary Ellen is a member of The CFA Institute, the CFA Society of Milwaukee, the Greater Milwaukee Committee (past Board Chair), Milwaukee 7 (past Co-Chair), Tempo (past President), Professional Dimensions and Milwaukee Women inc.
Mary Ellen serves on the boards of Baird Financial Group, Northwestern Mutual, and WEC Energy Group (NYSE:WEC). She also serves on the boards of All-In Milwaukee, Boys and Girls Clubs (past Board Chair), Children's Hospital Foundation, Faith In Our Future Trust, Froedtert Health, Greater Milwaukee Committee, Greater Milwaukee Foundation, Medical College of Wisconsin (past Board Chair), and Milwaukee World Festival. She served on the Board of Marquette University where she chaired the Board and was elected Trustee Emerita. She has co-chaired annual campaigns for the United Performing Arts Fund and the United Way.
Mary Ellen has received the Marquette University Alumna of the Year (2010) recognition, the Marquette University College of Arts and Sciences Person for Others Award, Marquette University High School's Spirit of St. Ignatius Award, The St. Francis Children's Service Award, The Tempo Mentor Award, The Business Journal Women of Influence Award, The Point of Light Award, Professional Dimensions Sacagawea Award, Wisconsin Business Hall of Fame Distinguished Executive Award, Baird's Brenton H. Rupple Citizenship Award and the Herb Kohl Champion Award. She and her husband were named "Parents of the Year" by COA Youth and Family Centers (2011). In 2012, she received the MVP Award from Boys & Girls Clubs.
She received her undergraduate degree from Marquette University (Magna Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa) and her graduate degree from the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee. She is a Chartered Financial Analyst.
Mary Ellen and her husband, Scott, have three children: Peter (Erin), Katie (Tim), and Patrick and four grandchildren: Emme, Abigail, Kathryn and Henry.
Job Titles:
- Leader
- Chief People and Culture Officer at Manpower Group
Michelle Nettles is a respected leader in the field of human resources, known for her strategic vision and commitment to driving organizational success through effective people management. As the Chief People and Culture Officer at ManpowerGroup, Michelle plays a pivotal role in shaping the company's global HR strategy and fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion.
Michelle's leadership at ManpowerGroup has been marked by a focus on unlocking the potential of the company's workforce. She has been instrumental in developing and implementing HR initiatives that align with the company's business objectives and drive employee engagement and productivity. Under her leadership, ManpowerGroup has continued to be recognized as a top employer and a leader in the HR industry.
In addition to her role at ManpowerGroup, Michelle is actively involved in various industry organizations and initiatives. She serves on the Board of HR People + Strategy, a professional association focused on advancing the field of human resources. Michelle is also a board member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund in Washington, D.C., where she contributes to the organization's mission of supporting students at historically black colleges and universities.
Michelle is deeply committed to giving back to her community and is actively involved in philanthropic endeavors. She serves as the Board Chair for Dr. Howard Fuller Collegiate Academy, a charter school in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where she leverages her expertise in education and human resources to support the school's mission of providing quality education to students from diverse backgrounds.
Michelle holds a Juris Doctorate from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a Bachelor of Science degree from Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University.
In her personal life, Michelle is known for her dedication to her family and her community. She resides in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with her husband, where they are actively involved in various community initiatives and organizations.
Job Titles:
- Pastor & Founder at Christian Faith Fellowship Church
Pastor Pam, as she is affectionately called, pastors Christian Faith Fellowship Church (CFFC) in Milwaukee, WI with her husband of 38-years, Bishop Darrell L. Hines. Her unbridled passion is to cultivate the total woman and it is evident in her effort to produce viable resources that has ministered to every facet of women; including utilizing her influence as a Certified Image Consultant, Lady Hines produced The Women's Image Course, a self-help manual for woman looking to improve their self-worth; additionally she formed Covenant Girls, a rites of passage for teen girls, and launched a spa collection, Perfect Peace, which consists of varying face & body washes, butters, and balms. Pastor Pam is the founder of the newly launched Wife's School, and the acclaimed author of A Wife's Prayer.
Pastor Pamela, who is the author of several books. has been featured on national radio and television for her appeal to woman. Such programming as Praise the Lord (TBN), Joni & Friends (Daystar TV), and Babbie's House (WATC Atlanta) has welcomed her. She has also graced the pages of such periodicals as Charisma, Gospel Today, Jet Magazine, and Empowering Everyday Women.
Job Titles:
- President at Milwaukee Bucks
- President of the Milwaukee Bucks
Peter Feigin has been the President of the Milwaukee Bucks since October 2014, where he has been instrumental in revitalizing the team's business operations. Under his leadership, the Bucks have seen significant growth in attendance, ticket revenue, merchandise revenue, partnership sales, and TV viewership. His efforts have transformed the Bucks into one of the city's best places to work, earning him recognition as the Milwaukee BizTimes 2015 CEO of the Year. In 2021, The Milwaukee Bucks won the NBA Championship.
In addition to his work with the Bucks, Peter has played a pivotal role in the development of a new multi-purpose arena and training center for the team. He has also been actively involved in various community initiatives, including the launch of the Milwaukee Bucks Foundation and serving on the boards of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee and the Milwaukee Public School Foundation.
Job Titles:
- Founder and CEO at the Sias Group, Retired Executive at WEC Energy and Professional
Named in April 2018 as a Lifetime Achievement award recipient by the Milwaukee Business Journal, Thelma A. Sias has been recognized widely for her executive leadership and deep commitment to the community.
In February 2017, she was named to The History Makers for the Library of Congress and was later honored by the Greater Milwaukee Foundation with the Doug Jansson Leadership Award.
That same year she received the Civic Leaders Award by the Milwaukee Fellowship Open and featured in the Jewish Museum Milwaukee Allied in the Fight exhibit. She was named to Savoy magazine's 2016 list of Top Influential Women in Corporate America and was the Milwaukee Business Journal's 2015 40 under 40 Hall of Fame honoree.
As We Energies' vice president of Local Affairs, Sias was responsible for building and enhancing long- term relationships with community leaders and local government to garner support and approval for the utility's critical corporate initiatives. Sias has spent her career exceling as a leading executive and professional speaker.
She has held key leadership roles in the greater Milwaukee community and serves as a key connector to business, community and political leaders. Sias' inspirational tone and passion for people has attributed to her successful career as a professional speaker. Her extensive experience and professional style has allowed her to build her brand as a sought- after speaker. Sias' speeches are passionate extensions of her life and professional experiences, making her relatable and engaging. She uses her professional speaking platform to develop the careers and skills of a diverse group of professionals.
A dedicated community leader, Sias continues to serve on a number of civic and community boards including:
the African American Women's Project
United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha
Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee
Children's Hospital of Wisconsin
Sojourner Family Peace Center
Cardinal Stritch University