Board of Directors Biographies
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Reed Hall ’70
Chair of the Board
Marshfield Clinic
1000 North Oak Avenue
Marshfield, WI 54449
Reed is executive director of the Marshfield Clinic, one of the largest private, multispecialty group practices in the United States. He served as the clinic’s general counsel for many years, coming from a private practice in Milwaukee. He received his MS in health law from the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health in 1974, and his JD from the University of North Dakota in 1973. Reed is a native of Tomah, Wisconsin, and served as a congressional intern to Congressman Vernon W. Thomson in Washington, D.C., following graduation from Madison. For more than 20 years, Reed has been active in the Wisconsin Alumni Association: Marshfield Chapter and Founders’ Days, and is a WAA Endowment and Bascom Hill Society benefactor. He served two previous terms on the WAA board of directors, chairing or participating on numerous board committees. He was re-elected to the board in 2004, serves on the executive committee, compensation committee, and the Alumni for Wisconsin advisory committee, and assumed his role as chair of the board in July 2008. Reed and his wife, Ellie ’72, live in Marshfield, Wisconsin.
Marshfield Clinic
1000 North Oak Avenue
Marshfield, WI 54449
Reed is executive director of the Marshfield Clinic, one of the largest private, multispecialty group practices in the United States. He served as the clinic’s general counsel for many years, coming from a private practice in Milwaukee. He received his MS in health law from the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health in 1974, and his JD from the University of North Dakota in 1973. Reed is a native of Tomah, Wisconsin, and served as a congressional intern to Congressman Vernon W. Thomson in Washington, D.C., following graduation from Madison. For more than 20 years, Reed has been active in the Wisconsin Alumni Association: Marshfield Chapter and Founders’ Days, and is a WAA Endowment and Bascom Hill Society benefactor. He served two previous terms on the WAA board of directors, chairing or participating on numerous board committees. He was re-elected to the board in 2004, serves on the executive committee, compensation committee, and the Alumni for Wisconsin advisory committee, and assumed his role as chair of the board in July 2008. Reed and his wife, Ellie ’72, live in Marshfield, Wisconsin.
Hilton Augustine Jr. ’82
Global Management Services, Inc.
2201 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Suite 300
Washington, D.C. 20007
Hilton is president and chief executive officer of Global Management Systems, Inc. GMSI specializes in e-commerce solutions, LAN/WAN engineering, network operations, video teleconferencing, Internet and intranet design, customer support centers, and asset and records management. GMSI is a perennial on the list of Black Enterprise’s top 100 industrial service providers and earned Government Computer News’ Leadership and Performance Award in 2001. Hilton serves on the university’s Industrial Engineering Advisory Board and is a Bascom Hill Society benefactor. He also mentors fellow entrepreneurs and students early in their careers. He joined the WAA board of directors in July 2007. Hilton, his wife, Glenda Henning, and their four children reside in Rockville, Maryland.
2201 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Suite 300
Washington, D.C. 20007
Hilton is president and chief executive officer of Global Management Systems, Inc. GMSI specializes in e-commerce solutions, LAN/WAN engineering, network operations, video teleconferencing, Internet and intranet design, customer support centers, and asset and records management. GMSI is a perennial on the list of Black Enterprise’s top 100 industrial service providers and earned Government Computer News’ Leadership and Performance Award in 2001. Hilton serves on the university’s Industrial Engineering Advisory Board and is a Bascom Hill Society benefactor. He also mentors fellow entrepreneurs and students early in their careers. He joined the WAA board of directors in July 2007. Hilton, his wife, Glenda Henning, and their four children reside in Rockville, Maryland.
Valarie King Bailey ’82
OnShore Technology Group Inc.
505 North Lakeshore Drive, Suite 220
Chicago, IL 60611
Valarie is chief executive officer of OnShore Technology Group, an independent, Chicago-based consulting firm specializing in technology, tactical and strategic marketing, and engineering services. She has over 20 years experience in the technology and pharmaceutical industries, and is a frequent lecturer and guest speaker at industry forums. She was nominated by Ernst & Young for an Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2006 and was a recipient of American Express/Count Me In “Make Mine a Million Dollar Business” Award. She is the first African-American woman to graduate from the UW-Madison College of Engineering. She has been president of the Minority Engineering Alumni Association, serves on the College of Engineering board of visitors, and was awarded a Distinguished Achievement Award in 2008. Val is involved in WAA’s brand advisory committee, diversity and inclusivity council, and has been active in African American Alumni Association functions. She and her husband, Vincent, reside in Chicago with their children, Angela and Vincent, Jr.
505 North Lakeshore Drive, Suite 220
Chicago, IL 60611
Valarie is chief executive officer of OnShore Technology Group, an independent, Chicago-based consulting firm specializing in technology, tactical and strategic marketing, and engineering services. She has over 20 years experience in the technology and pharmaceutical industries, and is a frequent lecturer and guest speaker at industry forums. She was nominated by Ernst & Young for an Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2006 and was a recipient of American Express/Count Me In “Make Mine a Million Dollar Business” Award. She is the first African-American woman to graduate from the UW-Madison College of Engineering. She has been president of the Minority Engineering Alumni Association, serves on the College of Engineering board of visitors, and was awarded a Distinguished Achievement Award in 2008. Val is involved in WAA’s brand advisory committee, diversity and inclusivity council, and has been active in African American Alumni Association functions. She and her husband, Vincent, reside in Chicago with their children, Angela and Vincent, Jr.
Nancy Ballsrud MBA’75
15682 Woodgate Rd. South
Minnetonka, MN
Nancy retired in 2008 from her 33-year career with Cargill, Inc. She served as vice president of Cargill’s administrative division and as the regional treasurer for Latin America, managing a team of employees in 15 countries and having global responsibility for cash management, operations, accounting and IT functions. Nancy received her MBA in finance from UW-Madison and undergraduate degrees in finance and French from Mankato State University. Her first assignment as a financial analyst lead to manager of the financial information services department and planning and development for Cargill Agricola, Sao Paulo, Brazil. Her civic involvements include chairperson for United Way, a member of the Minnesota Special Olympics steering committee, an adviser for Junior Achievement, and a member of the board of the Minneapolis Crisis Nursery. In 2003, Nancy received a Top Women in Finance award from Finance and Commerce. She was elected to the WAA Board in 2007 and serves on the finance and investment committee. Nancy and her husband, Jim Nelson, have two children and reside in Minnetonka, Minnesota.
Minnetonka, MN
Nancy retired in 2008 from her 33-year career with Cargill, Inc. She served as vice president of Cargill’s administrative division and as the regional treasurer for Latin America, managing a team of employees in 15 countries and having global responsibility for cash management, operations, accounting and IT functions. Nancy received her MBA in finance from UW-Madison and undergraduate degrees in finance and French from Mankato State University. Her first assignment as a financial analyst lead to manager of the financial information services department and planning and development for Cargill Agricola, Sao Paulo, Brazil. Her civic involvements include chairperson for United Way, a member of the Minnesota Special Olympics steering committee, an adviser for Junior Achievement, and a member of the board of the Minneapolis Crisis Nursery. In 2003, Nancy received a Top Women in Finance award from Finance and Commerce. She was elected to the WAA Board in 2007 and serves on the finance and investment committee. Nancy and her husband, Jim Nelson, have two children and reside in Minnetonka, Minnesota.
Ted Beck MBA’76
National Endowment for Financial Education
5299 DTC Boulevard, Suite 1300
Greenwood Village, CO 80111
Ted joined the National Endowment for Financial Education as president and chief executive officer in 2005. NEFE is the nation’s only nonprofit foundation wholly committed to educating Americans about personal finance. He was appointed to the President’s Council on Financial Literacy, an advisory role within the U.S. Department of Treasury, in March 2008. Ted previously served as associate dean for executive education and corporate relations for the Wisconsin School of Business, was president of the Center for Advanced Studies in Business Inc., and oversaw the operations of the Fluno Center for Executive Education. For many years, Ted also held senior management positions for Citibank/Citigroup. Ted earned his MBA in international business in 1976 from UW-Madison and his undergraduate degree in business administration from Notre Dame. He is an emeritus member of the Dean’s Advisory Board for the Wisconsin School of Business, served on the Wisconsin Business Alumni board of directors and is a Bascom Hill Society benefactor. Ted joined the WAA board of directors in 2006, served on the nominating committee, and was elected to the executive committee in July 2007. Ted and his wife, Diana, make their home in the Denver area.
5299 DTC Boulevard, Suite 1300
Greenwood Village, CO 80111
Ted joined the National Endowment for Financial Education as president and chief executive officer in 2005. NEFE is the nation’s only nonprofit foundation wholly committed to educating Americans about personal finance. He was appointed to the President’s Council on Financial Literacy, an advisory role within the U.S. Department of Treasury, in March 2008. Ted previously served as associate dean for executive education and corporate relations for the Wisconsin School of Business, was president of the Center for Advanced Studies in Business Inc., and oversaw the operations of the Fluno Center for Executive Education. For many years, Ted also held senior management positions for Citibank/Citigroup. Ted earned his MBA in international business in 1976 from UW-Madison and his undergraduate degree in business administration from Notre Dame. He is an emeritus member of the Dean’s Advisory Board for the Wisconsin School of Business, served on the Wisconsin Business Alumni board of directors and is a Bascom Hill Society benefactor. Ted joined the WAA board of directors in 2006, served on the nominating committee, and was elected to the executive committee in July 2007. Ted and his wife, Diana, make their home in the Denver area.
Donna Beestman MA’68
Career Success Strategies LLC
9 Southwick Circle
Madison, WI 53717
Donna is the president and founder of Career Success Strategies, a personal leadership coaching and consulting firm. She works primarily with professionals and executives who are at a career crossroads. Donna has years of experience in career coaching, leadership development and performance improvement. She is actively involved in the Madison community and serves on the University of Wisconsin Alumni Advisory Board for Career Services. She was elected to the WAA board of directors in 2003 and to the executive committee in 2007. Donna is a WAA Endowment benefactor. She has also served on the Alumni for Wisconsin advisory committee and on various governance, student awards and strategic ad hoc committees. Donna and her husband, George PhD’69, are local Madison alumni.
9 Southwick Circle
Madison, WI 53717
Donna is the president and founder of Career Success Strategies, a personal leadership coaching and consulting firm. She works primarily with professionals and executives who are at a career crossroads. Donna has years of experience in career coaching, leadership development and performance improvement. She is actively involved in the Madison community and serves on the University of Wisconsin Alumni Advisory Board for Career Services. She was elected to the WAA board of directors in 2003 and to the executive committee in 2007. Donna is a WAA Endowment benefactor. She has also served on the Alumni for Wisconsin advisory committee and on various governance, student awards and strategic ad hoc committees. Donna and her husband, George PhD’69, are local Madison alumni.
Sharon Chamberlain ’65
Chamberlain Research Consultants
660 John Nolen Drive
Madison, WI 53713
As president and founder of Chamberlain Research Consultants, an international market and opinion research firm, Sharon assists clients by helping them win a competitive advantage by making intelligent business decisions grounded in research. She is an avid supporter of her community and serves on several boards and advisory committees for local businesses and community groups, including Downtown Madison Inc., Johnson Bank, and Tempo Inc. She is a WAA Endowment and Bascom Hill Society benefactor. Sharon joined the WAA board in July 2003, served on the brand advisory committee, and has been a great resource to WAA in developing alumni and constituent survey strategies. She also served four years as a WAA representative on the Athletic Board. She and her husband, Jim Griese ’71, are local Madison alumni.
660 John Nolen Drive
Madison, WI 53713
As president and founder of Chamberlain Research Consultants, an international market and opinion research firm, Sharon assists clients by helping them win a competitive advantage by making intelligent business decisions grounded in research. She is an avid supporter of her community and serves on several boards and advisory committees for local businesses and community groups, including Downtown Madison Inc., Johnson Bank, and Tempo Inc. She is a WAA Endowment and Bascom Hill Society benefactor. Sharon joined the WAA board in July 2003, served on the brand advisory committee, and has been a great resource to WAA in developing alumni and constituent survey strategies. She also served four years as a WAA representative on the Athletic Board. She and her husband, Jim Griese ’71, are local Madison alumni.
William Chapman ’82
W.W. Grainger Inc.
100 Grainger Parkway
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Bill is director of investor relations and external relations for W.W. Grainger Inc. in Chicago. He serves as the company’s primary contact with the investment community and the media. Grainger is North America’s leading supplier of facilities maintenance products such as motors, tools, lighting and safety gear. Bill stays connected to UW-Madison and WAA as a Super Member and is past president and scholarship chair of the Chicago alumni chapter. He is a WAA Endowment and Bascom Hill Society benefactor. Bill joined the WAA board of directors in July 2004 and also serves on the finance and investment committee as well as the student scholarship awards committee. He and his wife, Kathy, live in Libertyville, Illinois.
100 Grainger Parkway
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Bill is director of investor relations and external relations for W.W. Grainger Inc. in Chicago. He serves as the company’s primary contact with the investment community and the media. Grainger is North America’s leading supplier of facilities maintenance products such as motors, tools, lighting and safety gear. Bill stays connected to UW-Madison and WAA as a Super Member and is past president and scholarship chair of the Chicago alumni chapter. He is a WAA Endowment and Bascom Hill Society benefactor. Bill joined the WAA board of directors in July 2004 and also serves on the finance and investment committee as well as the student scholarship awards committee. He and his wife, Kathy, live in Libertyville, Illinois.
Brian Christensen ’84
Protiviti Inc.
4127 E. Van Buren Street, Suite 210
Phoenix, AZ 85008
As managing director for Protiviti, Inc., the leading provider of independent internal audit, business and technology risk consulting services, Brian helps clients identify, measure and manage operational and technology-related risks. Brian and his wife, Donna ’83, are both graduates of UW-Madison, where he rowed for men’s crew. Brian’s service to the WAA board has been long-standing. He chairs WAA’s audit subcommittee and serves on the finance and investment committee. He has also served on the executive committee of the board and provides WAA with counsel on governance and business practices. He is a WAA Endowment and Bascom Hill Society donor. Brian, Donna and their daughters, Annika and Clara, make their home in Phoenix, Arizona.
4127 E. Van Buren Street, Suite 210
Phoenix, AZ 85008
As managing director for Protiviti, Inc., the leading provider of independent internal audit, business and technology risk consulting services, Brian helps clients identify, measure and manage operational and technology-related risks. Brian and his wife, Donna ’83, are both graduates of UW-Madison, where he rowed for men’s crew. Brian’s service to the WAA board has been long-standing. He chairs WAA’s audit subcommittee and serves on the finance and investment committee. He has also served on the executive committee of the board and provides WAA with counsel on governance and business practices. He is a WAA Endowment and Bascom Hill Society donor. Brian, Donna and their daughters, Annika and Clara, make their home in Phoenix, Arizona.
Peter Christianson ’71, JD’77
Quarles & Brady LLP
33 East Main Street, Suite 900
Madison, WI 53703
Pete is a partner at Quarles & Brady LLP,?one of the largest law firms in the United States. He is located full time in the Madison office.? He is a member of the State Bar Association of Wisconsin Lobbyists. Pete is a fourth-generation graduate of UW-Madison and the parent of three fifth-generation Badgers. He is a member of the Wisconsin Union and has been a Super Member since the WAA program began. He is a contributor to the WAA Endowment and a member of the Bascom Hill Society. Pete joined the WAA board in July 2003 and serves as an officer of the board on the executive committee. He has taken a leadership role in state relations and legislative affairs on behalf of the university, and he chairs the Alumni for Wisconsin advisory committee. Pete and his wife, Meg, make their home in Fitchburg, Wisconsin. They enjoy attending football, men’s and women’s basketball, and men’s and women’s hockey games.
33 East Main Street, Suite 900
Madison, WI 53703
Pete is a partner at Quarles & Brady LLP,?one of the largest law firms in the United States. He is located full time in the Madison office.? He is a member of the State Bar Association of Wisconsin Lobbyists. Pete is a fourth-generation graduate of UW-Madison and the parent of three fifth-generation Badgers. He is a member of the Wisconsin Union and has been a Super Member since the WAA program began. He is a contributor to the WAA Endowment and a member of the Bascom Hill Society. Pete joined the WAA board in July 2003 and serves as an officer of the board on the executive committee. He has taken a leadership role in state relations and legislative affairs on behalf of the university, and he chairs the Alumni for Wisconsin advisory committee. Pete and his wife, Meg, make their home in Fitchburg, Wisconsin. They enjoy attending football, men’s and women’s basketball, and men’s and women’s hockey games.
Kunyoung Chung MBA’85, PhD’88
Wisconsin School of Business
University of Wisconsin-Madison
975 University Avenue
Madison, WI 53706
Dr. Chung was dean at Keimyung University in Korea from 1996 to 2000. He is currently a visiting scholar at the Wisconsin School of Business. He serves on the International Student Exchange Program Advisory Council and is a member of the American Accounting Association and the Korean Accounting Association. Dr. Chung has served on the WAA board since 2003 and is a contributor to the WAA Endowment. He and his wife, Wonhee Kim, split their year between their homes in Middleton, Wisconsin, and Daegu, South Korea.
University of Wisconsin-Madison
975 University Avenue
Madison, WI 53706
Dr. Chung was dean at Keimyung University in Korea from 1996 to 2000. He is currently a visiting scholar at the Wisconsin School of Business. He serves on the International Student Exchange Program Advisory Council and is a member of the American Accounting Association and the Korean Accounting Association. Dr. Chung has served on the WAA board since 2003 and is a contributor to the WAA Endowment. He and his wife, Wonhee Kim, split their year between their homes in Middleton, Wisconsin, and Daegu, South Korea.
Paul J. Collins BBA’58
29 Wilton Crescent
London, UK SW1X8SA
As chair of the UW Foundation Board of Directors, Paul serves as an ex-officio representative to WAA’s national board. He is the retired vice chairman of Citigroup. His involvements include the board of trustees for Glydebourne Arts Trust in East Sussex, England, Carnegie Hall, the New York Philharmonic and Central Park Conservancy. He is a former trustee of Citibank, Kimberly-Clark Corporation, the Enstar Group and the Hospital for Special Surgery. Paul earned his MBA in 1961 from Harvard. His service to UW-Madison includes the Wisconsin School of Business Dean’s Advisory Council and board of visitors, as well as co-chairing the Create the Future Wisconsin Campaign. Paul and his wife, Carol Hoffmann, reside in London and have a son, Ronald, and a daughter, Julia.
London, UK SW1X8SA
As chair of the UW Foundation Board of Directors, Paul serves as an ex-officio representative to WAA’s national board. He is the retired vice chairman of Citigroup. His involvements include the board of trustees for Glydebourne Arts Trust in East Sussex, England, Carnegie Hall, the New York Philharmonic and Central Park Conservancy. He is a former trustee of Citibank, Kimberly-Clark Corporation, the Enstar Group and the Hospital for Special Surgery. Paul earned his MBA in 1961 from Harvard. His service to UW-Madison includes the Wisconsin School of Business Dean’s Advisory Council and board of visitors, as well as co-chairing the Create the Future Wisconsin Campaign. Paul and his wife, Carol Hoffmann, reside in London and have a son, Ronald, and a daughter, Julia.
H. Margo Edl
31 W 121 Grove Place
Wayne, IL 60184
A native of Williams Bay, Wisconsin, Margo attended UW-Madison and the University of Minnesota, where she majored in finance. Since selling her business, Fanatics Inc., in 1990, Margo has been active in numerous charitable projects with an emphasis on young children and the homeless. In the fall of 1999, Margo joined the UW School of Veterinary Medicine board of visitors. She served on the WAA board in an ex-officio capacity for several years representing the School of Veterinary Medicine and was transitioned to a voting member of the WAA board in 2008. She is an asset to the student awards comittee and the Wisconsin Alumni Lifelong Learning committee. Margo and her husband, Jack ’65, are WAA Endowment and Bascom Hill Society benefactors. They are highly engaged alumni in WAA international and athletic travel, and they often attend Chicago alumni chapter events.
Wayne, IL 60184
A native of Williams Bay, Wisconsin, Margo attended UW-Madison and the University of Minnesota, where she majored in finance. Since selling her business, Fanatics Inc., in 1990, Margo has been active in numerous charitable projects with an emphasis on young children and the homeless. In the fall of 1999, Margo joined the UW School of Veterinary Medicine board of visitors. She served on the WAA board in an ex-officio capacity for several years representing the School of Veterinary Medicine and was transitioned to a voting member of the WAA board in 2008. She is an asset to the student awards comittee and the Wisconsin Alumni Lifelong Learning committee. Margo and her husband, Jack ’65, are WAA Endowment and Bascom Hill Society benefactors. They are highly engaged alumni in WAA international and athletic travel, and they often attend Chicago alumni chapter events.
Farrah Flanagan ’98
CNN Media Operations
1 CNN Center
Atlanta, GA 30303
Farrah is an editor and producer for CNN in Atlanta. She began at the company’s entry-level position of video journalist and within a year, she was promoted to network editor. In 2004, her responsibilities expanded to editor and producer. In her current role, Farrah edits packages to be broadcast on CNN, Headline News, and CNN International. Over the course of her professional career, she has earned several awards including an Emmy, a Peabody and a DuPont. Farrah holds a bachelor of arts degree in Communication Arts from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She lives in Atlanta, Georgia, with her dog named “Badger.”
1 CNN Center
Atlanta, GA 30303
Farrah is an editor and producer for CNN in Atlanta. She began at the company’s entry-level position of video journalist and within a year, she was promoted to network editor. In 2004, her responsibilities expanded to editor and producer. In her current role, Farrah edits packages to be broadcast on CNN, Headline News, and CNN International. Over the course of her professional career, she has earned several awards including an Emmy, a Peabody and a DuPont. Farrah holds a bachelor of arts degree in Communication Arts from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She lives in Atlanta, Georgia, with her dog named “Badger.”
David Florin ’92
Hiebing
315 Wisconsin Avenue
Madison, WI 53703
Dave is president of Hiebing, a Madison-based marketing communications firm with 50 employees. An active volunteer in the Madison community, he is a board member of the Boys and Girls Club of Dane County and serves on the UW-Madison College of Letters and Science and School of Human Ecology Career Services Alumni Advisory Board. Dave joined the WAA board in 2003 and has been highly involved in WAA’s marketing and business-to-business advisory committees. In July 2006, he was elected to the executive committee of the board. Dave and his wife, Kristin ’92, are UW Foundation donors, contributors to Athletics, and stay engaged in WAA and campus events. They reside in Middleton, Wisconsin.
315 Wisconsin Avenue
Madison, WI 53703
Dave is president of Hiebing, a Madison-based marketing communications firm with 50 employees. An active volunteer in the Madison community, he is a board member of the Boys and Girls Club of Dane County and serves on the UW-Madison College of Letters and Science and School of Human Ecology Career Services Alumni Advisory Board. Dave joined the WAA board in 2003 and has been highly involved in WAA’s marketing and business-to-business advisory committees. In July 2006, he was elected to the executive committee of the board. Dave and his wife, Kristin ’92, are UW Foundation donors, contributors to Athletics, and stay engaged in WAA and campus events. They reside in Middleton, Wisconsin.
Curt Fuszard ’76
Associated Investment Services, Inc.
200 N. Adams Street
Green Bay, WI 54301
Curt is the president and chief executive officer of Associated Investment Services, Inc., an affiliate of Green Bay-based Associated Bank and parent company Associated Banc-Corp. He is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin School of Business and Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, where he earned his MBA. He holds the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) and Certified in Long-Term Care (CLTC) designations. Curt has been in the financial services industry since 1980, following three years as an Army Intelligence Officer. He currently serves as the president of the Partners in Education Drug Alliance, and is a board member of the Financial Planning Association of Northeast Wisconsin. Curt’s service on the WAA board began in July 2008. He has been a long-time chapter leader and two-time president of the alumni chapter of Brown County. Curt and his wife, Barbara ’77, live in Green Bay and have one son.
200 N. Adams Street
Green Bay, WI 54301
Curt is the president and chief executive officer of Associated Investment Services, Inc., an affiliate of Green Bay-based Associated Bank and parent company Associated Banc-Corp. He is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin School of Business and Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, where he earned his MBA. He holds the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) and Certified in Long-Term Care (CLTC) designations. Curt has been in the financial services industry since 1980, following three years as an Army Intelligence Officer. He currently serves as the president of the Partners in Education Drug Alliance, and is a board member of the Financial Planning Association of Northeast Wisconsin. Curt’s service on the WAA board began in July 2008. He has been a long-time chapter leader and two-time president of the alumni chapter of Brown County. Curt and his wife, Barbara ’77, live in Green Bay and have one son.
Jean Towell Gebhard ’78
Northwestern Mutual
720 E. Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, WI 53202
As assistant director of media relations for Northwestern Mutual, Milwaukee, Jean is a critical part of the PR team that manages external media and communications for the company. She is responsible for developing media relations strategies and messaging that align with corporate initiatives, and counsels senior management on strategic communications outreach. Her ability to build relationships with the media and the community and develop creative angles to generate story concepts was evidenced by the positive press that Northwestern Mutual received during its 150th anniversary year. Prior to joining Northwestern in 2000, she managed her own creative communications consulting firm. She also has an extensive background in print and broadcast media and has worked as a newspaper reporter, radio talk show host and on-air spokesperson for television. She holds a BS in journalism from UW-Madison. Jean serves on the board of visitors for the School of Human Ecology and is a charter member of the new Wisconsin Idea board of visitors. Jean joined the WAA board in July 2008. She and her husband, Irvin, have two sons and live near Lake Michigan in Fox Point, Wisconsin.
720 E. Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, WI 53202
As assistant director of media relations for Northwestern Mutual, Milwaukee, Jean is a critical part of the PR team that manages external media and communications for the company. She is responsible for developing media relations strategies and messaging that align with corporate initiatives, and counsels senior management on strategic communications outreach. Her ability to build relationships with the media and the community and develop creative angles to generate story concepts was evidenced by the positive press that Northwestern Mutual received during its 150th anniversary year. Prior to joining Northwestern in 2000, she managed her own creative communications consulting firm. She also has an extensive background in print and broadcast media and has worked as a newspaper reporter, radio talk show host and on-air spokesperson for television. She holds a BS in journalism from UW-Madison. Jean serves on the board of visitors for the School of Human Ecology and is a charter member of the new Wisconsin Idea board of visitors. Jean joined the WAA board in July 2008. She and her husband, Irvin, have two sons and live near Lake Michigan in Fox Point, Wisconsin.
Douglas K. Griese ’75
Donaldson Company, Inc.
8137 W. Grand River Avenue, Suite 4
Brighton, MI 48114
Doug is the Detroit district sales manager for Donaldson Company, Inc., an industrial filtration business in Michigan and Ohio. He takes an active role in his industry and has been elected to several offices, including president of the Detroit chapter of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers. He is equally active in his community and the Troy Foundation for Educational Excellence and has enjoyed coaching youth athletic teams. He has been highly engaged in both the Detroit and Washington, D.C. alumni chapters. He served six years as Detroit chapter president, receiving a Sparkplug Award for exceptional service to alumni, the university and WAA. Doug co-chaired the UW Foundation Campaign in Detroit and has experience with student recruiting, admissions, scholarship programs and high school relations. He has been a member of the WAA board since 1989, served as 2007–08 chair of the board and serves on the executive, compensation and nominating committees. Doug and his wife, Mary Ann ’76, are passionate about the university, are contributors to the WAA Endowment and are long-time Bascom Hill Society donors.
8137 W. Grand River Avenue, Suite 4
Brighton, MI 48114
Doug is the Detroit district sales manager for Donaldson Company, Inc., an industrial filtration business in Michigan and Ohio. He takes an active role in his industry and has been elected to several offices, including president of the Detroit chapter of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers. He is equally active in his community and the Troy Foundation for Educational Excellence and has enjoyed coaching youth athletic teams. He has been highly engaged in both the Detroit and Washington, D.C. alumni chapters. He served six years as Detroit chapter president, receiving a Sparkplug Award for exceptional service to alumni, the university and WAA. Doug co-chaired the UW Foundation Campaign in Detroit and has experience with student recruiting, admissions, scholarship programs and high school relations. He has been a member of the WAA board since 1989, served as 2007–08 chair of the board and serves on the executive, compensation and nominating committees. Doug and his wife, Mary Ann ’76, are passionate about the university, are contributors to the WAA Endowment and are long-time Bascom Hill Society donors.
Camille Haney ’69
The Haney Group Inc.
3939 Monona Drive #102
Madison, Wisconsin 53716
Camille is president of the Haney Group, a public affairs firm she founded in 1975 after serving as head of the Wisconsin Attorney General’s Office of Consumer Protection and a member of the White House Consumer Advisory Council. She was president of the International Society of Consumer Affairs Professionals in Business and was a delegate to two White House conferences on small business. She also served as special assistant to former Secretary of U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Tommy Thompson in the area of organ donation. Camille is past chair of the School of Human Ecology board of visitors, received an Outstanding Alumni Award from that school, and is a donor to the UW Foundation. She has served on various corporate boards and numerous national and state boards and advisory committees. She is a member of the Wisconsin Public Television board and frequently volunteers for on-air pledge drives. Camille was elected to the WAA board of directors in 2003.
3939 Monona Drive #102
Madison, Wisconsin 53716
Camille is president of the Haney Group, a public affairs firm she founded in 1975 after serving as head of the Wisconsin Attorney General’s Office of Consumer Protection and a member of the White House Consumer Advisory Council. She was president of the International Society of Consumer Affairs Professionals in Business and was a delegate to two White House conferences on small business. She also served as special assistant to former Secretary of U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Tommy Thompson in the area of organ donation. Camille is past chair of the School of Human Ecology board of visitors, received an Outstanding Alumni Award from that school, and is a donor to the UW Foundation. She has served on various corporate boards and numerous national and state boards and advisory committees. She is a member of the Wisconsin Public Television board and frequently volunteers for on-air pledge drives. Camille was elected to the WAA board of directors in 2003.
Diana Haugen ’05
Chandler Chicco Agency
1315 Lincoln Boulevard
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Diana provides public relations and communications experience to the Chandler Chicco Agency in areas ranging from government and public affairs to social marketing. She has experience in providing strategic counsel on public education campaigns, community and grassroots outreach, stakeholder relations and mainstream media relations. At CCA, she supports strategic programming for pharmaceutical, consumer and medical device companies such as Coca-Cola and Allergan. Diana graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a BA in communication arts, with an emphasis on communication science and rhetorical studies, and a BA in Spanish. Diana’s service on the WAA board of directors began in July 2008. Diana and her husband, Lee, reside in Marina del Rey, California.
1315 Lincoln Boulevard
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Diana provides public relations and communications experience to the Chandler Chicco Agency in areas ranging from government and public affairs to social marketing. She has experience in providing strategic counsel on public education campaigns, community and grassroots outreach, stakeholder relations and mainstream media relations. At CCA, she supports strategic programming for pharmaceutical, consumer and medical device companies such as Coca-Cola and Allergan. Diana graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a BA in communication arts, with an emphasis on communication science and rhetorical studies, and a BA in Spanish. Diana’s service on the WAA board of directors began in July 2008. Diana and her husband, Lee, reside in Marina del Rey, California.
Jack Kaiser JD’76
Schrage & Kaiser Law Offices
P.O. Box 358
Eau Claire, WI 54702
Jack is a practicing partner at Schrage & Kaiser Law in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. His legal representation is primarily on behalf of injured and disabled persons in worker’s compensation disputes, Social Security appeals, and personal injury claims. He earned a bachelor of arts from UW-Eau Claire in 1973 and his JD in 1976 from UW-Madison. He has served in public office as City Attorney and on various boards. He is a past chair of the UW-Madison Law School board of visitors and was president of the Wisconsin Law Alumni Association board. Jack received the David Ward Alumni Advocate of the Year Award in 2003. He is a Bascom Hill Society donor, is actively connected to his community and the Chippewa Valley area, and is highly involved with Alumni for Wisconsin and in-state relations. Jack joined the WAA Board in July 2006. He and his wife, Marcia, have a son, John, who graduated in 2005 from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, and a daughter, Maggie, who graduated in 2006 from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and became a WAA member.
P.O. Box 358
Eau Claire, WI 54702
Jack is a practicing partner at Schrage & Kaiser Law in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. His legal representation is primarily on behalf of injured and disabled persons in worker’s compensation disputes, Social Security appeals, and personal injury claims. He earned a bachelor of arts from UW-Eau Claire in 1973 and his JD in 1976 from UW-Madison. He has served in public office as City Attorney and on various boards. He is a past chair of the UW-Madison Law School board of visitors and was president of the Wisconsin Law Alumni Association board. Jack received the David Ward Alumni Advocate of the Year Award in 2003. He is a Bascom Hill Society donor, is actively connected to his community and the Chippewa Valley area, and is highly involved with Alumni for Wisconsin and in-state relations. Jack joined the WAA Board in July 2006. He and his wife, Marcia, have a son, John, who graduated in 2005 from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, and a daughter, Maggie, who graduated in 2006 from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and became a WAA member.
Peter Kappelman ’85
Meadow Brook Farms
7420 Cty Hwy Q
Manitowoc, WI 54220
Pete, with his brother John, owns and operates an 850-acre, family dairy farm in Manitowoc. Pete serves on the Land O’Lakes Corporate Board as chairman, National Milk Producers Federation board of directors and is past president of Professional Dairy Producers of Wisconsin. He is an honors graduate of UW-Madison with a BS in dairy science. He served nine years on the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences board of visitors. Among his awards are Honorary Recognition from CALS, Wisconsin Jaycees Outstanding Young Farmer, Wisconsin Dairy Farm Family of the Year and Wisconsin Farm Bureau Outstanding Young Farmer Award. Community interests include serving on the board of the Economic Development Corporation for Manitowoc County, coaching middle and high school basketball teams, and being a 4-H dairy leader. Pete was elected to the WAA board of directors in July 2008. Pete and his wife, Shellie, have three children: Beth, Mitch and Erin. They make their home in
Two Rivers, Wisconsin.
7420 Cty Hwy Q
Manitowoc, WI 54220
Pete, with his brother John, owns and operates an 850-acre, family dairy farm in Manitowoc. Pete serves on the Land O’Lakes Corporate Board as chairman, National Milk Producers Federation board of directors and is past president of Professional Dairy Producers of Wisconsin. He is an honors graduate of UW-Madison with a BS in dairy science. He served nine years on the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences board of visitors. Among his awards are Honorary Recognition from CALS, Wisconsin Jaycees Outstanding Young Farmer, Wisconsin Dairy Farm Family of the Year and Wisconsin Farm Bureau Outstanding Young Farmer Award. Community interests include serving on the board of the Economic Development Corporation for Manitowoc County, coaching middle and high school basketball teams, and being a 4-H dairy leader. Pete was elected to the WAA board of directors in July 2008. Pete and his wife, Shellie, have three children: Beth, Mitch and Erin. They make their home in
Two Rivers, Wisconsin.
Bill McCoshen ’87
Capitol Consultants, Inc.
22 North Carroll Street
Madison, WI 53703
Bill is the vice president of Capitol Consultants, a firm specializing in government relations, public affairs and issues-based grassroots advocacy. He is also the executive director for Competitive Wisconsin, a non-partisan consortium of agriculture, business, education and labor leaders. Before joining Capitol Consultants, Bill was appointed by former Governor Tommy Thompson to be the Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Commerce. He earned his bachelor’s degree in political science from UW-Madison. At the age of 29, Bill became the youngest appointed cabinet secretary in Wisconsin history. Prior to being appointed Secretary of Commerce, he managed Governor Thompson’s third-term campaign victory. The landslide victory was the second highest margin in state history and the largest margin since 1922. Before taking a leave from state government to serve as Governor Thompson’s campaign manager, he served as Governor Thompson’s chief of staff. Bill is a UW Foundation donor and contributes to athletics. He was elected to WAA’s board of directors in 2007. He and his wife, Carol, are Madison residents.
22 North Carroll Street
Madison, WI 53703
Bill is the vice president of Capitol Consultants, a firm specializing in government relations, public affairs and issues-based grassroots advocacy. He is also the executive director for Competitive Wisconsin, a non-partisan consortium of agriculture, business, education and labor leaders. Before joining Capitol Consultants, Bill was appointed by former Governor Tommy Thompson to be the Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Commerce. He earned his bachelor’s degree in political science from UW-Madison. At the age of 29, Bill became the youngest appointed cabinet secretary in Wisconsin history. Prior to being appointed Secretary of Commerce, he managed Governor Thompson’s third-term campaign victory. The landslide victory was the second highest margin in state history and the largest margin since 1922. Before taking a leave from state government to serve as Governor Thompson’s campaign manager, he served as Governor Thompson’s chief of staff. Bill is a UW Foundation donor and contributes to athletics. He was elected to WAA’s board of directors in 2007. He and his wife, Carol, are Madison residents.
D. Cecil Martin ’99
327 Florence Street
Evanston, IL 60202
Cecil is a professional speaker for corporate, educational, promotional and charitable functions. He has been a guest sports commentator in London, England for Sky Sports for the past six years. He also works with nonprofit organizations as an investment marketing consultant, helping organizations raise funds. Cecil had a successful career in the NFL playing for the Philadelphia Eagles, Oakland Raiders, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. While attending UW-Madison, he was co-captain of the 1999 Rose Bowl team and earned an NCAA Good Works Award for community service. He graduated with a bachelor of arts in communications. Cecil was elected to the WAA board in 2006. He resides in Evanston, Illinois.
Evanston, IL 60202
Cecil is a professional speaker for corporate, educational, promotional and charitable functions. He has been a guest sports commentator in London, England for Sky Sports for the past six years. He also works with nonprofit organizations as an investment marketing consultant, helping organizations raise funds. Cecil had a successful career in the NFL playing for the Philadelphia Eagles, Oakland Raiders, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. While attending UW-Madison, he was co-captain of the 1999 Rose Bowl team and earned an NCAA Good Works Award for community service. He graduated with a bachelor of arts in communications. Cecil was elected to the WAA board in 2006. He resides in Evanston, Illinois.
Casey Nagy MA’89
Office of the Chancellor
University of Wisconsin-Madison
161 Bascom Hall
500 Lincoln Drive
Madison, WI 53706
As special assistant to the chancellor, Casey represents the chancellor’s office on WAA’s board in an ex-officio capacity. He oversees the day-to-day operations of the chancellor’s office where he serves as liaison with the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics, and chairs the university relations steering committee that coordinates government relations, public relations, alumni relations and development activities for the university. He has been highly involved in the university’s re-accreditation process, strategic planning and vision for the future. Casey is a graduate of Washington State University, Seattle University School of Law, and UW-Madison, where he earned a master’s degree in anthropology. He practiced law in the fields of maritime, civil rights and employment, and also taught oral and written advocacy at Seattle University School of Law. His previous positions have included executive assistant in the Office of the Provost and in UW-Madison’s Administrative Legal Services, where he specialized in administrative personnel issues. Casey and his wife, Jo Handelsman PhD’84, live in Madison.
University of Wisconsin-Madison
161 Bascom Hall
500 Lincoln Drive
Madison, WI 53706
As special assistant to the chancellor, Casey represents the chancellor’s office on WAA’s board in an ex-officio capacity. He oversees the day-to-day operations of the chancellor’s office where he serves as liaison with the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics, and chairs the university relations steering committee that coordinates government relations, public relations, alumni relations and development activities for the university. He has been highly involved in the university’s re-accreditation process, strategic planning and vision for the future. Casey is a graduate of Washington State University, Seattle University School of Law, and UW-Madison, where he earned a master’s degree in anthropology. He practiced law in the fields of maritime, civil rights and employment, and also taught oral and written advocacy at Seattle University School of Law. His previous positions have included executive assistant in the Office of the Provost and in UW-Madison’s Administrative Legal Services, where he specialized in administrative personnel issues. Casey and his wife, Jo Handelsman PhD’84, live in Madison.
William Raaths ’69
Great Northern Corporation
395 Stroebe Road
Appleton, WI 54914
Bill is CEO of Great Northern Corporation (GNC), headquartered in Appleton, Wisconsin. GNC is a $240 million,
privately owned company in the packaging business. GNC has five plants in Wisconsin and two each on the West and East coasts. Prior to Great Northern, Bill was CEO of Anchor Foods and is a past president of Wisconsin Tissue and Georgia Pacific Tissue. He graduated from UW-Madison with a degree in economics. He later earned an MBA from UW-Oshkosh in marketing and finance, and was recently selected by that school as Alumni of the Year. He completed the Executive Program of the Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia and has taught business courses in strategy at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. Bill serves on several boards including GNC, Fox Cities Bank, St. Elizabeth’s Hospital Foundation, the Catholic Foundation and Valley Packaging Industries. He also represents Winnebago County on the Fox River Authority as it reopens the historic locks system on the Fox River in Northeast Wisconsin. He is a UW Foundation donor. Bill joined the WAA board of directors in July 2007. He and his wife, Natalie, reside in Menasha, Wisconsin.
395 Stroebe Road
Appleton, WI 54914
Bill is CEO of Great Northern Corporation (GNC), headquartered in Appleton, Wisconsin. GNC is a $240 million,
privately owned company in the packaging business. GNC has five plants in Wisconsin and two each on the West and East coasts. Prior to Great Northern, Bill was CEO of Anchor Foods and is a past president of Wisconsin Tissue and Georgia Pacific Tissue. He graduated from UW-Madison with a degree in economics. He later earned an MBA from UW-Oshkosh in marketing and finance, and was recently selected by that school as Alumni of the Year. He completed the Executive Program of the Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia and has taught business courses in strategy at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. Bill serves on several boards including GNC, Fox Cities Bank, St. Elizabeth’s Hospital Foundation, the Catholic Foundation and Valley Packaging Industries. He also represents Winnebago County on the Fox River Authority as it reopens the historic locks system on the Fox River in Northeast Wisconsin. He is a UW Foundation donor. Bill joined the WAA board of directors in July 2007. He and his wife, Natalie, reside in Menasha, Wisconsin.
Vasudevan Rajaram PhD’78
Techknow Engineering LLC
Chicago, Illinois
Raj is an environmental engineer at Techknow Engineering LLC in Chicago. He has 33 years of experience in the sitting, design and construction of energy, environmental and waste-management facilities. He has a PhD in rock mechanics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and a JD from the Illinois Institute of Technology, Kent College of Law. He has completed environmental projects in India, ranging from the design and construction of wastewater treatment facilities at three power plants to introducing environmental management systems to various sectors of industry. He is the author of over 40 papers and a book entitled Sustainable Mining Practices – A Global Perspective. He is active in community activities in Chicago and in development activities in various parts of India. He was awarded the Humanitarian Service Award by Tetra Tech in 1999, the International Leadership Award in 2000 and the International Award of Merit in 2002 by Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago. Raj joined the WAA board of directors in July 2007. His wife, Vijay, is a physician. They reside in Oakbrook, Illinois.
Chicago, Illinois
Raj is an environmental engineer at Techknow Engineering LLC in Chicago. He has 33 years of experience in the sitting, design and construction of energy, environmental and waste-management facilities. He has a PhD in rock mechanics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and a JD from the Illinois Institute of Technology, Kent College of Law. He has completed environmental projects in India, ranging from the design and construction of wastewater treatment facilities at three power plants to introducing environmental management systems to various sectors of industry. He is the author of over 40 papers and a book entitled Sustainable Mining Practices – A Global Perspective. He is active in community activities in Chicago and in development activities in various parts of India. He was awarded the Humanitarian Service Award by Tetra Tech in 1999, the International Leadership Award in 2000 and the International Award of Merit in 2002 by Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago. Raj joined the WAA board of directors in July 2007. His wife, Vijay, is a physician. They reside in Oakbrook, Illinois.
Renee Ramirez ’83
Waukesha Community Dental Clinic
210 NW Barstow Street
Waukesha, WI 53188
Renee is the executive director for the Waukesha County Community Dental Clinic. She was formerly director of business operations and finance for Gray Mare Preschool, Inc. for 16 years. Renee is very involved in her community in various leadership positions that support youth, parents and public education and is a leading advocate in the Waukesha-Greater Milwaukee area for the Alumni for Wisconsin campaign: “Wisconsin: A State. A School. A Stand.” Renee wa appointed to the executive committee of the board in 2008 as a vice chair. She is married to Ralph Ramirez ’81, JD’84, a Circuit Court Judge for Waukesha County, and has served successfully as treasurer for the Ramirez for Judge Committee. Renee and Ralph give back to the university through the UW Foundation. They have three children: Alicia, Maria and Joe. Renee joined the WAA board of directors in July 2006.
210 NW Barstow Street
Waukesha, WI 53188
Renee is the executive director for the Waukesha County Community Dental Clinic. She was formerly director of business operations and finance for Gray Mare Preschool, Inc. for 16 years. Renee is very involved in her community in various leadership positions that support youth, parents and public education and is a leading advocate in the Waukesha-Greater Milwaukee area for the Alumni for Wisconsin campaign: “Wisconsin: A State. A School. A Stand.” Renee wa appointed to the executive committee of the board in 2008 as a vice chair. She is married to Ralph Ramirez ’81, JD’84, a Circuit Court Judge for Waukesha County, and has served successfully as treasurer for the Ramirez for Judge Committee. Renee and Ralph give back to the university through the UW Foundation. They have three children: Alicia, Maria and Joe. Renee joined the WAA board of directors in July 2006.
Judi Roller
College of Letters and Science
University of Wisconsin-Madison
407B Bascom Hall
500 Lincoln Drive
Madison, WI 53706
Judi is associate dean of the College of Letters and Science and senior assistant to Dean Gary Sandefur. She holds a master’s degree and PhD in English from the University of Michigan and graduated cum laude in 1969 from Bowling Green State University with a BA in English and biology. Judi joined the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1999 as associate dean for student academic affairs in the College of Letters and Science. In her current role, she manages grant proposals and fellowship programs for the advancement and retention of underrepresented L&S graduate students, among other responsibilities. She is a member of the L&S Academic Planning Council, the University Equity and Diversity Council, and the Chancellor’s Scholars Selection Committee. Judi is a teacher, author and lecturer and was honored with an Outstanding Academic Book Award in 1987 for The Politics of the Feminist Novel. She is also the mother of a son who practices law in Massachusetts. Judi serves as an ex-officio member of WAA’s Board, representing the College of Letters and Science.
University of Wisconsin-Madison
407B Bascom Hall
500 Lincoln Drive
Madison, WI 53706
Judi is associate dean of the College of Letters and Science and senior assistant to Dean Gary Sandefur. She holds a master’s degree and PhD in English from the University of Michigan and graduated cum laude in 1969 from Bowling Green State University with a BA in English and biology. Judi joined the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1999 as associate dean for student academic affairs in the College of Letters and Science. In her current role, she manages grant proposals and fellowship programs for the advancement and retention of underrepresented L&S graduate students, among other responsibilities. She is a member of the L&S Academic Planning Council, the University Equity and Diversity Council, and the Chancellor’s Scholars Selection Committee. Judi is a teacher, author and lecturer and was honored with an Outstanding Academic Book Award in 1987 for The Politics of the Feminist Novel. She is also the mother of a son who practices law in Massachusetts. Judi serves as an ex-officio member of WAA’s Board, representing the College of Letters and Science.
Jay Sekelsky ’81, MBA’87
4268 Blackstone Court
Middleton, WI 53562
Jay is a principal and senior portfolio manager of Madison Investment Advisors. He serves as the lead equity portfolio manager for the firm and is a member of the investment policy committee. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Jay earned a BBA in accounting and an MBA in finance. He also has both a CPA and CFA designation. Prior to joining Madison Investment Advisors, Jay was an investment officer with Wellington. He is a Bascom Hill Society donor. He joined the WAA board of directors in July 2005. He chairs WAA’s finance and investment committee and is a member of the executive committee of the board.
Middleton, WI 53562
Jay is a principal and senior portfolio manager of Madison Investment Advisors. He serves as the lead equity portfolio manager for the firm and is a member of the investment policy committee. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Jay earned a BBA in accounting and an MBA in finance. He also has both a CPA and CFA designation. Prior to joining Madison Investment Advisors, Jay was an investment officer with Wellington. He is a Bascom Hill Society donor. He joined the WAA board of directors in July 2005. He chairs WAA’s finance and investment committee and is a member of the executive committee of the board.
Stephanie L. Swartz ’74
Gunderson Lutheran Medical Center
1910 South Avenue
La Crosse, WI 54601
Stephanie is the chief nursing officer for Gunderson Lutheran Medical Center in La Crosse, where she provides leadership over the practice of nursing and is responsible for all customer service functions. She was administrative director for the neuroscience center from 2002 to 2005. She is a member of the UW-Madison School of Nursing board of visitors and the American Organization of Nurse Executives. She is a past board member of the Viterbo University School of Nursing and Gunderson Lutheran Medical Foundation. Stephanie graduated with honors from UW-Madison in 1974 with a BS in Nursing, and earned her MA in Servant Leadership at Viterbo in 2007. Stephanie and her husband, Arnold, live in La Crosse.
1910 South Avenue
La Crosse, WI 54601
Stephanie is the chief nursing officer for Gunderson Lutheran Medical Center in La Crosse, where she provides leadership over the practice of nursing and is responsible for all customer service functions. She was administrative director for the neuroscience center from 2002 to 2005. She is a member of the UW-Madison School of Nursing board of visitors and the American Organization of Nurse Executives. She is a past board member of the Viterbo University School of Nursing and Gunderson Lutheran Medical Foundation. Stephanie graduated with honors from UW-Madison in 1974 with a BS in Nursing, and earned her MA in Servant Leadership at Viterbo in 2007. Stephanie and her husband, Arnold, live in La Crosse.
Jeff Wiesner ’83
848 Lynnewood Drive
Waukesha, WI 53188
Jeff graduated with honors from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1983 with a bachelor of science in industrial engineering. After graduation, he began a 20-year career with Arthur Anderson, now Accenture. Throughout his consulting experience, Jeff worked with many of Wisconsin’s top corporations and specialized in managing large-scale, management information systems projects that were global in scope. In his role with Accenture, Jeff worked closely with the university’s Engineering Career Services, the engineering faculty and the University of Wisconsin Foundation. He served on the Industrial and Systems Engineering Industry Advisory Council from 2002 to 2007 and is a past council chair. He is also a visiting mentor for the Accenture Leadership Center within the Wisconsin School of Business, which provides opportunities for undergraduates to develop leadership skills outside the classroom. Now retired, Jeff devotes his time to nonprofit and civic activities and to the Waukesha Education Foundation. He is a UW football and hockey season ticket holder and a Bascom Hill Society benefactor. Jeff joined the WAA board in July 2007. Originally from Neenah, Wisconsin, Jeff and his wife, Sara ’85, live in Waukesha. They have three children. Colin is a student at UW-Madison and represents the fourth generation of Wiesner Badgers. Dillon and Brenna attend Waukesha West high School. ?
Waukesha, WI 53188
Jeff graduated with honors from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1983 with a bachelor of science in industrial engineering. After graduation, he began a 20-year career with Arthur Anderson, now Accenture. Throughout his consulting experience, Jeff worked with many of Wisconsin’s top corporations and specialized in managing large-scale, management information systems projects that were global in scope. In his role with Accenture, Jeff worked closely with the university’s Engineering Career Services, the engineering faculty and the University of Wisconsin Foundation. He served on the Industrial and Systems Engineering Industry Advisory Council from 2002 to 2007 and is a past council chair. He is also a visiting mentor for the Accenture Leadership Center within the Wisconsin School of Business, which provides opportunities for undergraduates to develop leadership skills outside the classroom. Now retired, Jeff devotes his time to nonprofit and civic activities and to the Waukesha Education Foundation. He is a UW football and hockey season ticket holder and a Bascom Hill Society benefactor. Jeff joined the WAA board in July 2007. Originally from Neenah, Wisconsin, Jeff and his wife, Sara ’85, live in Waukesha. They have three children. Colin is a student at UW-Madison and represents the fourth generation of Wiesner Badgers. Dillon and Brenna attend Waukesha West high School. ?
Andrew (Sandy) Wilcox
University of Wisconsin Foundation
1848 University Avenue
Madison, WI 53708
Sandy is president of the University of Wisconsin Foundation, where he has been employed since 1988. His previous work involved charitable giving at various organizations such as Stanford University and Rush Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center. As an ex-officio member of the WAA board of directors, Sandy is involved with the recognition and awards committee and is a valuable campus partner to WAA. He is also a member of the University Relations Team and co-chairs the Deans’ Council Chicago Strategy subcommittee.
1848 University Avenue
Madison, WI 53708
Sandy is president of the University of Wisconsin Foundation, where he has been employed since 1988. His previous work involved charitable giving at various organizations such as Stanford University and Rush Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center. As an ex-officio member of the WAA board of directors, Sandy is involved with the recognition and awards committee and is a valuable campus partner to WAA. He is also a member of the University Relations Team and co-chairs the Deans’ Council Chicago Strategy subcommittee.
Jeanan Yasiri MS’85
The University of Wisconsin Center for Nonprofits
1300 Linden Drive
Madison, WI 53706
Jeanan is executive director for the UW Center for Nonprofits. She is also owner and principal of Jeanan Yasiri Solutions, LLC, working on program development and customer engagement opportunities with clients including WARF (Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation) and the Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services. She also serves on the board of visitors of the UW School of Human Ecology and is a senior lecturer. Her career includes a decade of work as a broadcast journalist for channel NBC 15 and 14 years as a health care executive with Dean Health System as vice president for service innovation, developing and managing nationally recognized outreach programs to vulnerable populations. She was a recipient of the first Dane County/City of Madison Public Health Leadership Award and was appointed by Governor Jim Doyle to serve on the State Public Health Council. She is active on the Wisconsin Public Television board and the board of the Boys and Girls Club of Dane County. She is a Bascom Hill Society donor. Jeanan joined WAA as an ex-officio board member in 2002 and was elected as a voting director to the board and executive committee in July 2007. She also contributes her expertise to various ad hoc committees.
1300 Linden Drive
Madison, WI 53706
Jeanan is executive director for the UW Center for Nonprofits. She is also owner and principal of Jeanan Yasiri Solutions, LLC, working on program development and customer engagement opportunities with clients including WARF (Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation) and the Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services. She also serves on the board of visitors of the UW School of Human Ecology and is a senior lecturer. Her career includes a decade of work as a broadcast journalist for channel NBC 15 and 14 years as a health care executive with Dean Health System as vice president for service innovation, developing and managing nationally recognized outreach programs to vulnerable populations. She was a recipient of the first Dane County/City of Madison Public Health Leadership Award and was appointed by Governor Jim Doyle to serve on the State Public Health Council. She is active on the Wisconsin Public Television board and the board of the Boys and Girls Club of Dane County. She is a Bascom Hill Society donor. Jeanan joined WAA as an ex-officio board member in 2002 and was elected as a voting director to the board and executive committee in July 2007. She also contributes her expertise to various ad hoc committees.
Events
- Politics and Challenges of Immigration Reform - December 5
- New York City Christmas Tour - December 12
- Kilimanjaro Trekking & Safari - January 18
- Online Marathon Training - January 20
