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Chamber Membership

ROBYN DAVIS: “GREATER GROWTH.”

Greater Green Bay Chamber membership fuels growth, talent and impact.

Robyn Davis first connected with the Greater Green Bay Chamber while serving as president of Freedom House Ministries when she was invited to participate in focus groups shaping the Greater Green Bay Chamber Economic Development Strategic Plan.

“That was the first time that I really came together with Chamber members,” she said. “I appreciated the fact that I was being asked to contribute to a community-wide strategy.”

That invitation left a lasting impression. “It meant that the Chamber valued my perspective, valued my insight, and really wanted to include the perspective that I had as a nonprofit CEO in the future of the community,” she said. “And really giving voice to the community that I served at that time. It was families with children experiencing homelessness.”

As her career evolved into her current role as president and CEO of Brown County United Way, Davis found that early connection became foundational. She points to a partnership that brings together business, nonprofits, government and education to tackle shared challenges.

After contributing to the strategic plan, Davis was asked to lead the Chamber’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusiveness Task Force.

“That brought me to the table again in a greater way with business leaders, the government, etc.,” she said. “Being placed in that leadership role was a surprise, but really seeing the development of that work was just a natural fit.”

She points to workforce development as one of the most pressing challenges the Greater Green Bay Chamber helps address. “Regardless of whether you’re a business, nonprofit, government agency or higher education, we’re all concerned about where our workforce is coming from,” she said.

Through her work, she has elevated conversations around Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE) households and economic stability: “How do we work together to stabilize the workforce, and also what do we do to provide those supports as businesses are recruiting?”

Beyond strategy, Davis emphasizes the Greater Green Bay Chamber’s role in building relationships. That connectivity has shaped her growth as a leader. “Coming to the networking events, you really get to create those one-on-one connections with folks,” she said.

Davis engages with the Greater Green Bay Chamber as a nonprofit leader, individual professional and entrepreneur. Across all three roles, one theme stands out: “It’s the visibility,” she said. “It is meaningful to be a member of the Greater Green Bay Chamber. Being a member is very important.”

She also sees the Greater Green Bay Chamber as a tool for team development through programs like Leadership Green Bay and Chamber Young Professionals. “We are always looking for cost effective ways to provide training and networking opportunities,” she said. “As a Chamber member, we have access to lasting relationships.”

So what’s been greater for Davis? “The relationships that come from being a member. It makes you feel part of something greater in the community, a greater sense of personal value.”

Chamber Ambassador Spotlight

MEET PAUL EVANSEN

Chamber Ambassadors represent the Greater Green Bay Chamber in the community and actively engage with members and nonmembers. These dedicated volunteers serve as trusted liaisons, answering questions about membership, promoting local businesses, attending Chamber events and celebrating milestones at ribbon cuttings and groundbreakings.

Every Chamber Ambassador brings a unique story and a personal commitment to making Green Bay a better place to live, work and do business. In this monthly blog series, we introduce the passionate individuals who give their time, energy and enthusiasm to serve our members.

Paul Evansen became a Chamber Ambassador in 2024. A commercial landscape sales consultant at Vande Hey Company, Inc., he hoped the opportunity would help him expand his personal and professional network in Greater Green Bay.

Paul describes his role as a liaison between local businesses and the community that supports them as “very rewarding.” He believes it’s important for business owners to know they are not alone: “Going into business at any size or level can be daunting. The Greater Green Bay Chamber works to help them know they are not on an island but have a team behind them, supporting them and cheering for them.”

Some of his favorite moments as a Chamber Ambassador come from conversations with business owners who are unaware of the resources available through the Greater Green Bay Chamber. He especially enjoys hearing, “I had no idea the Chamber offered that,” after sharing more information. Paul has also valued the time spent with his fellow Chamber Ambassadors: “Personally, [my favorite memory] was laughing while competing with my fellow Ambassadors on a golf simulator at our 2024 [Chamber Ambassador] Bash.”

What would Paul tell those interested in becoming a Chamber Ambassador? “Make the time to do it ‘right,’ and you will gain friends, insight and the personal satisfaction that comes with serving others in your community.”

Greater Green Bay Chamber, NWTC Launch “LEading Greater” Leadership Development Program for Young Professionals

The Greater Green Bay Chamber, in partnership with Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC) Corporate Training & Economic Development, has launched “Leading Greater” — new leadership development program designed for Chamber Young Professional members.

“Leading Greater” equips professionals at any stage of their career with practical, workplace-ready skills they can apply from day one. Participants build a deeper understanding of their leadership style while strengthening communication and teamwork—gaining the confidence to lead in today’s workplace. Whether stepping into a first leadership role or expanding existing strengths, learners gain the tools and perspective to grow — professionally and personally.

“This is an opportunity for employers to invest in their people and develop leaders from within,” said Ashlee Vysocil, Young Professionals Manager at the Greater Green Bay Chamber. “And for individuals, it’s a chance to build practical skills and prepare for greater possibilities — wherever their career takes them.”

Leading Greater is structured as a two-course learning experience, with the flexibility for learners to enroll in one or both courses, which include:

Leading Greater: DiSC® — an in-person experience at NWTC that combines a DiSC® assessment with facilitated learning focused on communication styles and team dynamics.
Leading Greater: I.M.P.A.C.T. — a flexible, self-paced course featuring virtual discussions and practical leadership development that participants can apply directly in their current roles. Upon completion, learners will earn an NWTC digital badge, with an option to bridge into college credit.

“NWTC is proud to partner with the Greater Green Bay Chamber to strengthen leadership development opportunities for young professionals across our region,” said Jim Draeger, dean of NWTC Corporate Training & Economic Development. “Leading Greater reflects a shared investment in developing the region’s future leaders while supporting talent retention and business growth.”

Leading Greater provides organizations with a meaningful way to invest in their young professionals while giving participants access to the development opportunities they seek—right here in Northeast Wisconsin. As leadership demands continue to evolve, this collaborative program positions the region for long-term success by strengthening talent, supporting employers, and building a pipeline of confident, capable leaders.

To learn more about Leading Greater, including upcoming sessions and registration information, https://www.greatergbc.org/leading-greater-series/.

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About Greater Green Bay Chamber
The Greater Green Bay Chamber is greater for you. Since 1882, we have supported member businesses through economic development, workforce growth and community leadership that drives real impact. Discover how we can support you at greatergbc.org or call 920-593-3400.

About NWTC Corporate Training & Economic Development
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College’s Corporate Training & Economic Development (CTED) partners with employers across NWTC’s nine-county district to provide customized workforce training, professional development, and consulting services. Serving more than 7,200 individuals from over 700 organizations—including businesses, nonprofits, school districts, and government agencies—CTED helps organizations strengthen their workforce and respond to evolving industry needs. Learn more at www.nwtc.edu/workforce.

Dan Lightfuss Named Vice President of Finance and Administration at the Greater Green bay Chamber

The Greater Green Bay Chamber is pleased to announce the addition of Dan Lightfuss as Vice President of Finance and Administration. In this key leadership role, Lightfuss will provide strategic oversight of the Chamber’s financial management, administrative operations, and organizational infrastructure, helping to guide long-term growth and ensure alignment with the Chamber’s mission and strategic priorities.

“Dan’s experience and perspective will be a strong asset to our leadership team,” said Lara Fritts, President and CEO of the Greater Green Bay Chamber. “He understands how to align financial stewardship with organizational strategy, and his leadership will support the Chamber’s continued growth and impact.”

As Vice President of Finance and Administration, Lightfuss will partner closely with the President and CEO, Executive Committee, and Board of Directors to shape financial strategy, lead budgeting and forecasting, and provide insight into opportunities for sustainable growth. He will also oversee key administrative functions, including accounting, human resources, information technology, and facilities, ensuring that systems and processes effectively support the Chamber’s operations and long-term impact.

Lightfuss brings more than 30 years of experience in accounting and financial leadership, with a background spanning public accounting, nonprofit organizations, and compliance-focused environments. Most recently, he served as Chief Financial Officer at Riverview Gardens, where he led financial operations, budgeting, reporting, and audit processes while working closely with executive leadership and boards. Throughout his career, Lightfuss has been recognized as a disciplined and highly committed leader, consistently going above and beyond to ensure accuracy, accountability, and strong outcomes. He is equally known for his ability to mentor and develop others, working alongside colleagues to build knowledge, strengthen capabilities, and support team success. His background includes audit leadership, regulatory compliance, financial consulting, and performance reporting across a wide range of industries.

I am honored to join the Greater Green Bay Chamber and to be part of an organization that plays such an important role in supporting businesses and the broader community,” said Lightfuss. “I look forward to contributing to the Chamber’s continued success and working alongside a team committed to meaningful impact.

Lightfuss holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse and is a Certified Public Accountant in the state of Wisconsin. He has also demonstrated a strong commitment to community service, having served on multiple board and finance leadership roles.

Oneida Nation’s Economic Impact Reaches $1.09 Billion in Wisconsin

Chamber members gained a deeper understanding of a key regional economic driver at the April Greater Green Bay Chamber Economic Development Board meeting, where a new independent study from fellow members St. Norbert College and the Oneida Nation was presented.

The study highlights the scale and reach of the Oneida Nation’s economic footprint, estimating $1.09 billion in total economic activity in Wisconsin by 2025, along with more than $94 million in taxes paid to non-tribal governments.

For members, those numbers reflect more than just economic output. They represent real activity flowing through local businesses, jobs that support families and communities, and partnerships that strengthen the broader regional economy.

The report breaks down that $1.09 billion into several layers. Approximately $653 million comes from direct economic activity, including spending on salaries, goods and services. That investment alone supports 3,266 jobs. From there, the impact continues to ripple outward through indirect and induced effects, as employees spend wages locally, suppliers scale to meet demand and businesses grow alongside that activity.

While gaming remains an important component, the study underscores that it is only part of a much broader and increasingly diversified economic portfolio. About one-third of Oneida Nation’s total economic activity is tied to gaming, supporting roughly 1,500 jobs. The remainder spans a wide range of enterprises, including financial services, hospitality operations such as hotels, retail fuel and convenience stores, agricultural and agritourism ventures, and commercial leasing partnerships with businesses ranging from grocery stores to retail tenants.

That diversification is meaningful for Chamber members, as it reflects expanding opportunities for collaboration, supply chain partnerships and shared growth across industries.

The study also points to significant growth over time. Since the last analysis in 2018, Oneida Nation’s economic impact has increased by approximately $249 million. That growth is driven by expansion across business lines and continued reinvestment in infrastructure and services.

The findings are further grounded in a broader historical context. Prior to the rise of tribal gaming in the 1990s, the Oneida Nation, like many Indigenous communities, faced limited economic opportunity, with many members relying on low-wage, seasonal work. Today’s impact reflects decades of strategic development and investment.

A key part of that strategy is reinvestment. Revenue generated by Oneida Nation is directed back into healthcare, education, public safety, infrastructure and land reacquisition efforts to support not only economic development, but long-term community stability and growth.

Taken together, the study presents a picture of an economy that is not only substantial in size but deeply connected to the region’s overall economic health. The $1.09 billion impact represents an evolving network of businesses, jobs and investments that continue to create value across Northeast Wisconsin.

member spotlight

leadership in education starts with listening

Walk into a classroom today, and you’ll see something very different than a generation ago. Students are moving, collaborating, and solving problems together. A teacher shifts between guiding discussion, supporting small groups, and encouraging independent thinking, all within a single lesson.

Learning has changed, and the spaces that support learning have had to change with it.

Today’s classrooms are dynamic, more student-driven, and focused on building skills that extend far beyond academics — collaboration, communication, curiosity, and critical thinking. These are the skills students will carry into their careers and communities.

For over 80 years, KI has worked alongside educators to understand the powerful connection between environment and learning, grounding every solution in real insights from students and teachers. By listening first, KI creates spaces that support how people learn, grow, and thrive, while reflecting the distinct needs and culture of each school community. Because when the environment works, engagement follows.

In classroom research conducted by KI, the percentage of students who said their classroom was “fun to study in” increased from 50% to 92% after a furniture update. Students who felt their space supported their individual needs rose from 50% to 80%, and collaboration improved significantly, with students reporting it was easy to break into groups increasing from 35% to 96%.

These changes aren’t just about furniture. They’re about what becomes possible. Flexible spaces give students agency while allowing teachers to adapt in real time. For younger learners, movement supports discovery. For older students, it enables deeper collaboration and problem-solving.

The environment does not replace great teaching. It amplifies it.

At the center of every successful classroom there is an educator who brings learning to life. Teachers create the moments that spark confidence, inspire curiosity, and unlock potential in ways that last far beyond the classroom.

That’s why supporting educators is central to the KI commitment to education and why initiatives like the Golden Apple Awards matter. Recognizing teaching excellence reinforces a simple truth: education is people-powered.

When educators are supported and celebrated, students benefit. Schools grow stronger. Communities thrive.

Headquartered in Green Bay, Wisconsin, KI is an employee-owned manufacturer and designer of innovative, human-centered furniture solutions. But leadership in education goes beyond what is built — it’s about partnership, research, and a shared investment in the future.

Because the most important part of any learning environment isn’t the furniture.

It’s the people in the room.

*This blog post is part of a Chamber event sponsorship package.

Chamber Ambassador Spotlight

MEET JOLEEN ALLARD

Joleen Allard became a Chamber Ambassador in 1986. It all started when her father, Geo Farah, recommended that the role would be great for networking with others in the community.

Joleen owns Green Bay Area Newcomers Neighbors and calls her 40 years of service as a Chamber Ambassador “rewarding” and “life changing.” Over the years, she says there have been too many favorite moments and memories to mention, but one event sticks out. “I sat at a table with Oneida Nation and suggested Terry Netzel become an Ambassador,” she remembers. “Now she is a good friend!”

Keeping people and businesses connected is important to Joleen. She believes it is critical to building a greater awareness of what is happening in the community.

What would she tell someone interested in becoming a Chamber Ambassador? “It is worth your time and energy.”

The Greater Green Bay Chamber is deeply grateful for Joleen’s 40 years of dedicated service as a Chamber Ambassador. Her steady presence and genuine commitment to our business community have made a meaningful difference over the years. She has helped create connections, welcomed others and represented the Chamber with care and integrity. Thank you, Joleen, for the lasting impact you’ve made in this role.

Chamber Membership

MICHAEL ALEXANDER: “ACCESS TO GREATER OPPORTUNITIES.”

Greater Green Bay Chamber membership fuels growth, talent and impact.

Michael Alexander first connected with the Greater Green Bay Chamber through its ability to bring people together across industries, sectors and perspectives. As Chancellor of the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, he saw engagement as a natural extension of the university’s role in the community

“The Chamber has helped us understand what makes Green Bay great and what drives this community,” Alexander said. “It’s the ability to connect with business leaders and others across the region and really be part of that shared energy.”

Alexander sees the Chamber as a connector that helps turn ideas into action.
“The Chamber is really good at making sure that it is putting people in a room who can advance the conversation,” he said. “That’s where we see tremendous value. It doesn’t just start conversations, it helps move them forward in meaningful ways.”

Through Chamber involvement, Alexander quickly found opportunities to
listen, learn and build relationships. Those connections have helped strengthen how UW-Green Bay shows up for the region.

“The Chamber has helped us grow by deepening our connections,” he said. “It gives us the opportunity to listen carefully to what the business community needs and think about how we can best serve that at UW-Green Bay.”

For Alexander, that growth has been both organizational and personal. Serving on the Chamber Board of Directors and participating in initiatives like Partners in education has created space for meaningful collaboration.

“Being part of those conversations, bringing education and business leaders together to think about how we move the region forward, is really exciting,” he said.

Chamber programming has also played a role in shaping his perspective. Events that highlight local leaders and their journeys offered him valuable insight into both challenges and success stories.

“Hearing from other business leaders talk about their success and challenges they’ve overcome is incredibly helpful,” Alexander said. “It allows you to understand what’s driving momentum in the community and how you can contribute to it.”

The collaborative spirit between UW-Green Bay and the Greater Green Bay Chamber Chamber shines through numerous initiatives, including a partnership to support entrepreneurship and emerging businesses.

“Working together in the Urban Hub has helped us better connect with the entrepreneurial community and grow as a university,” he said. “It’s about using our resources to help others develop and succeed.”

For Alexander, Chamber engagement is ultimately about alignment and bringing the right people together to move the community forward.

“The Chamber is intentional about creating spaces where important conversations happen,” he said. “Being part of those conversations is crucial to our mission to help make Green Bay the best it can be and to attract and retain talent here.”

Small Business Feature

Senior Life Care Advisors

The Greater Green Bay Chamber defines any business with less than 50 employees as a small business. Small businesses make up more than 80% of our membership base, and we are proud to offer them support and resources through programming, events and workspaces.

This blog post is part of a monthly series highlighting the small businesses in our community. Learn more about Senior Life Care Advisors in this Q&A with Owner, Michael Fredrickson.

Tell us about Senior Life Care Advisors. What services do you offer? Who is your audience?

“Senior Life Care Advisors is a family-owned business based in Green Bay, dedicated to helping older adults and their families navigate the often overwhelming process of finding the right senior care solution.

We provide personalized guidance throughout the entire senior care transition, taking the time to understand each individual’s care needs, preferences, and financial considerations before identifying the most appropriate care options and coordinating tours/next steps. Our services help older adults and their families find the right fit across assisted living, memory care, independent living, skilled nursing, in-home care, and respite (short-term) options, both for their current needs and as those needs evolve over time.

One of the most important aspects of what we do is that our services are 100% FREE for families, allowing them to focus on making the best decision for their loved one without added financial pressure.

We primarily work with adult children supporting aging parents, families navigating urgent or complex situations, and seniors planning ahead for future care needs.”

When was Senior Life Care Advisors established?

“My wife, Gina, and I launched Senior Life Care Advisors in August 2023. Since then, we’ve grown our team, expanded our reach across Northeast Wisconsin and beyond, and have had the privilege of helping over 1,200 seniors and their families navigate their care journey.”

Why did you decide to start Senior Life Care Advisors?

“Gina and I started Senior Life Care Advisors after seeing firsthand how confusing and emotional the search for senior care solutions can be.

Through our backgrounds in senior living and healthcare, we worked with families who were overwhelmed and often forced to make quick decisions without the guidance they deserved. We believed there was a better way, one built on clarity, trust, and genuine support, where families could feel confident in their decisions without pressure.

That belief is what led us to create Senior Life Care Advisors.”

How would you describe your journey as a business owner?

“Our journey has been incredibly meaningful and purpose-driven. Building this business from the ground up has allowed us to combine our experience with a shared passion for helping others.

We’ve grown with intention, by prioritizing relationships, trust, and delivering real value to the families we serve and our community partners. What started as just the two of us has grown into a team of six, and we’ve stayed true to the same mission and hands-on approach that helped us build this company from day one.”

What has been the most rewarding moment for you as a business owner?

“It’s hard to point to just one moment, because it’s really the consistent impact we’ve had on families that stands out the most.

When a family feels relief, clarity, or peace of mind after working with us, especially during a difficult or emotional transition, that’s what sticks with us the most. Those moments reinforce exactly why we started Senior Life Care Advisors and why we continue to do what we do.

At the same time, earning the trust of families, along with the healthcare providers and community partners who confidently refer their patients and clients to us, has been incredibly meaningful. That level of trust is something we take very seriously and never take for granted.

As we’ve grown, it’s also been great to see the impact our team is making day in and day out, along with their continued growth both professionally and personally. Watching that develop alongside Gina and me has been a very meaningful part of the journey as well.”

What has been the most challenging part of owning a business?

“One of the biggest focuses for us has been maintaining the level of trust and consistency we’ve built as we continue to grow.

In a business like ours, families and community partners rely on a very high level of communication and follow-through, so we’ve been intentional about how we scale, who we bring onto the team, and how we operate day to day.

Growth is important, but protecting the experience and trust we’ve built will always come first.”

Who has been the most influential person to you as a business owner?

“I’d have to start with my wife, Gina. She’s been the most influential person for me as a business owner, giving me the support and confidence to take the leap in 2023 and build this company from the ground up. She’s been there through every stage of growth and continues to be my biggest supporter.

Professionally, I’ve been fortunate to learn from strong leaders in senior care, including Katherine Tegen and Barbara Bittner, who helped shape my foundation and reinforced the importance of doing things the right way for families.

Beyond that, the families we serve and the professionals we work alongside continue to influence how we operate every day and push us to keep improving and raising the standard.”

What are you most excited about as you look to the future of Senior Life Care Advisors?

“What excites me most is our ability to continue growing while staying true to who we are and helping more families navigate this process with the support and guidance they deserve.

We’re focused on reaching more families across Northeast Wisconsin, strengthening relationships with community partners, and continuing to be a trusted resource for both families and healthcare providers navigating senior care.

I’m also excited about the continued growth of our team. We’ve been fortunate to bring on incredible individuals, Allie Bloom, Jessica Van Schyndel, Laurie Weyenberg, and Jason Arendt, who all share the same passion and commitment to our mission. Seeing the impact they’re making and the lives we’re able to touch together is what drives us forward.”

How can people find Senior Life Care Advisors?

“The best way to connect with us is simply to reach out. Whether someone is just starting to explore senior care options or needs immediate guidance, we’re always happy to have a conversation and Navigate Senior Care Together. People can connect with Senior Life Care Advisors in several ways.”

Website: www.seniorlca.com
Phone: (920) 634-7795
Office: 3021 Holmgren Way, Suite 200, Green Bay, WI 54304
Facebook: Senior Life Care Advisors
Instagram: Senior Life Care Advisors
LinkedIn: Senior Life Care Advisors

Chamber Ambassador Spotlight

MEET VANESSA MORAN

Vanessa Moran became a Chamber Ambassador in 2024. She serves on the school board for the Howard-Suamico School District and has experienced firsthand the importance of partnerships in preparing students for future success. Being a Chamber Ambassador allows her to strengthen relationships and support local businesses to promote collaboration that benefits our community and local schools.

She understood the value of connections when her daughter came home after attending the Greater Green Bay Chamber’s Find Your Inspiration. The annual event gives local eighth grade students a hands-on look at the careers shaping Greater Green Bay. Vanessa remembers her daughter showing her brochures and sharing information about college and career possibilities with energy and enthusiasm. She says, “When students see career pathways and real-world opportunities right here in our community, it helps them envision their future and stay motivated in the classroom. Building these relationships not only strengthens our local economy but also creates partnerships that directly support student success and workforce readiness.”

Her favorite memories come from supporting her fellow Chamber Ambassadors. Vanessa cheered on Jim Knopf in NEW Dancing with Our Stars: “I made a sign for him, and the moment he spotted it in the crowd was unforgettable.” She calls it a fun reminder that being a Chamber Ambassador means not just supporting businesses but also celebrating each other as part of a community.

Vanessa enjoys the sense of teamwork that comes with being a Chamber Ambassador, because “we’re all working toward the same goal of supporting growth and strengthening relationships in our community.” So, what would she say to someone considering the volunteer role?

“It is a wonderful way to connect with people, support local businesses, and be part of something bigger than yourself. It’s not only about networking. It’s about building relationships, celebrating successes, and strengthening the fabric of our community. If you enjoy meeting new people and want to make a positive impact, being an Ambassador is both fun and meaningful.”

Category: Chamber Blog

Chamber Membership

ROBYN DAVIS: “GREATER GROWTH.”

Chamber Ambassador Spotlight

MEET PAUL EVANSEN

Greater Green Bay Chamber, NWTC Launch “LEading Greater” Leadership Development Program for Young Professionals

Dan Lightfuss Named Vice President of Finance and Administration at the Greater Green bay Chamber

Oneida Nation’s Economic Impact Reaches $1.09 Billion in Wisconsin

member spotlight

leadership in education starts with listening

Chamber Ambassador Spotlight

MEET JOLEEN ALLARD

Chamber Membership

MICHAEL ALEXANDER: “ACCESS TO GREATER OPPORTUNITIES.”

Small Business Feature

Senior Life Care Advisors

Tell us about Senior Life Care Advisors. What services do you offer? Who is your audience?

When was Senior Life Care Advisors established?

Why did you decide to start Senior Life Care Advisors?

How would you describe your journey as a business owner?

What has been the most rewarding moment for you as a business owner?

What has been the most challenging part of owning a business?

Who has been the most influential person to you as a business owner?

What are you most excited about as you look to the future of Senior Life Care Advisors?

How can people find Senior Life Care Advisors?

Chamber Ambassador Spotlight

MEET VANESSA MORAN

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