Matt Kaudy Assumes Role as President and CEO of CoVantage Credit Union

CoVantage Credit Union is pleased to announce that Matt Kaudy has officially assumed the role of President and Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Charlie Zanayed and becoming only the fourth CEO in the credit union’s 73-year history.

Kaudy steps into the role following Zanayed’s previously announced retirement, concluding a thoughtful two-year succession process led by the CoVantage Board of Directors. Zanayed served as President and CEO for 13 years, guiding the credit union through significant growth while remaining true to its cooperative, member-owned mission.

“We are deeply grateful for Charlie’s leadership and the lasting impact he has made on CoVantage, its member-owners, and its employees,” said CoVantage Credit Union Board Chair Mike Windberg.

“The Board conducted a comprehensive nationwide search to identify a leader who aligns with CoVantage’s mission and values,” said Windberg. “Matt’s experience, values, and leadership approach position CoVantage well for the future.”

With more than 20 years of credit union leadership experience, Kaudy brings a broad background across human resources, payments, digital, contact centers, financial centers, marketing, and community engagement. Most recently, he served as Executive Vice President and Chief Growth Officer at EECU Credit Union in Fort Worth, Texas.

“I’m honored to step into the role of President and CEO at CoVantage,” said Kaudy. “The welcome I’ve received from employees, members, and community partners has been incredibly meaningful. I’m grateful for the trust the Board has placed in me and for the opportunity to serve our member-owners.”

Throughout his career, Kaudy has remained deeply engaged in community service, supporting organizations focused on youth development, financial education, and children’s health. He looks forward to becoming active in the communities CoVantage serves.

“It’s a privilege to build on CoVantage’s strong foundation,” he said. “I’m excited to listen, learn, and work alongside this dedicated team to continue welcoming all, strengthening our communities, and helping members achieve financial well-being.”

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About CoVantage Credit Union

CoVantage Credit Union is a purpose-driven organization with a mission to welcome all regardless of wealth, providing outstanding value and exceptional service, work with members experiencing financial challenge, and remaining financially strong. Headquartered in Antigo, Wisconsin, the credit union has over $4 billion in assets and serves over 183,000 member-owners. Founded in 1953, the financial cooperative serves members in all 50 states with locations in Wisconsin, Michigan, and Illinois. For more information visit covantagecu.org.

Goodwill NCW Wins 2026 New North WOrkplace Excellence Award

Goodwill North Central Wisconsin (NCW), a regional nonprofit providing employment and financial wellness services funded by retail of donated items, has been named as the winner of the 2026 New North Workplace Excellence Award. It was selected through a multi-phase evaluation process that is independent from the New North organization.

Representatives from Goodwill NCW were presented the award at the New North Summit, held at Lambeau Field in Green Bay.

The honor recognizes organizations in the region that are improving their competitive advantage through people practices which lead to successful business outcomes. Award submissions are evaluated on nine criteria, with the primary two being forward-thinking people practices and sustainable impacts to the business and culture. The Workplace Excellence Award is a collaboration between New North Inc. and Keystone Partners.

“Goodwill North Central Wisconsin has set itself apart in the community through its integrated, whole-person approach to workforce support, extending beyond traditional benefits and H.R. practices,” says Patti Habeck, president and CEO of New North Inc. “It recognizes that work stability depends on life stability, and provides layered financial and personal support to ensure that occurs. Goodwill NCW exemplifies the qualities ingrained within the New North Workplace Excellence Award criteria. We congratulate them.”

Goodwill NCW is a nonprofit organization dedicated to “Elevating People by Eliminating Barriers to Employment” across 35 counties. It operates 27-plus retail stores and donation centers, funding job-skills training, vocational services and community programs through the sale of donated goods.

Amid persistent workforce turnover issues across the retail industry, Goodwill NCW faced significant retention challenges in 2021; its overall turnover rate reached 85 percent, while retail store turnover climbed to 91 percent. The high level of attrition not only was unsustainable, it was disruptive to Goodwill NCW’s culture, operations and continuity of the mission-driven work at its core. Choosing not to accept this circumstance as the product of a challenging labor market, it was positioned as an opportunity to examine the team member experience from end to end and to redesign the nonprofit’s people practices with intention and care.

Goodwill NCW first acknowledged the root causes of its employee turnover through team member focus groups and stay interviews, together with a deep dive into onboarding and exit surveys. Contributing factors identified by the organization included inconsistent onboarding practices, varying levels of leader capability and preparedness, pay-range alignment concerns, benefit offerings that were no longer competitive or well-understood, and a lack of structured pathways for ongoing development and career growth.

To address the defined issues causing a high rate of attrition, Goodwill NCW took multiple steps. Among these was a redesign of its onboarding process to ensure that each new team member was welcomed, trained and supported in a consistent, meaningful way. Turnover additionally was tracked consistently to identify trends and root causes; the findings were used to design targeted, evidence-based improvements in people practices.

The organization also focused on strengthening leadership skills by expanding training opportunities, introducing coaching and mentorship models, and created clearer expectations for leadership effectiveness. Its leadership development program has consistently achieved a 100 percent satisfaction rating, along with an 87 percent job retention among participants.

Compensation and benefits additionally were a point of emphasis. After a comprehensive review, Goodwill NCW implemented adjustments to align pay ranges more closely with market data, along with introducing greater pay transparency and improved communication around compensation philosophy. Employee benefits packages also were examined to address affordability, relevance and accessibility.

An organizational culture of continuous development – an environment where growth is expected, supported and embedded into everyday work – was fostered as well.

The cumulative impact of Goodwill NCW’s strategic, people-centered investments was both significant and measurable. Between 2021 and 2025, organizational turnover decreased from 85 percent to 51 percent, while retail turnover showed a similar decrease, to 60.5 percent. Equally important, Goodwill NCW witnessed the emergence of a stronger, healthier workplace culture where team members feel supported, valued and connected to the mission; this was reflected in an engagement survey where 82 percent of team members said they felt engaged.

“This recognition belongs to our team members. At Goodwill NCW, our mission of Elevating People by Eliminating Barriers to Employment doesn’t stop at the people we serve through our programs; it begins with the team members who walk through our doors every day,” says Anna Wilcox, chief administrative officer of Goodwill North Central Wisconsin. “Care for People is one of our core values and it shapes every decision we make about how we onboard, develop, support and grow our workforce. This award affirms what we’ve long believed: people are our mission.”

Many of the changes implemented by Goodwill NCW were forward-focused, combining rigorous strategic planning with proactive trend analysis to anticipate future workforce needs. For instance, recognizing the growing importance of mental health, programs to support team member well-being and resilience were implemented; 58 team members have been certified in Mental Health First Aid over the past two-and-a-half years.

Inclusivity also has been a focus of the organization. It implemented Boost Lingo interpretation services, hired a multilingual case manager and developed English Language Learning modules for Swahili-speaking team members. Company materials, including its employee handbook, job descriptions and training materials, were modified with inclusive language to support equitable hiring and onboarding.

Among the public-facing initiatives of Goodwill NCW is Career EXCELerate Wisconsin, a program for the community launched in 2022 to provide training to those with barriers to employment, offering a variety of career pathways along with wrap-around personalized care to ensure successful completion and employment upon graduation.

Organizations located within the New North region were qualified for the award. Companies did not need to be headquartered in New North for eligibility, but were required to have a division or location within the region.

Recent winners of the New North Workplace Excellence Award include Capital Credit Union (2025); Schreiber Foods (2024); Wisconsin Aluminum Foundry and CLA (2023); J. F. Ahern Co. (2022); Wipfli (2020-21); Integrity Insurance (2019); Schneider (2018); American Transmission Company, Expera Specialty Solutions and Werner Electric (2017); Foth (2016); Oshkosh Corp. (2015); and U.S. Venture, Inc. (2014). Goodwill NCW also won the award in 2009.

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About New North, Inc.

New North, Inc., is a 501(c)3 non-profit, regional economic development corporationfostering collaboration among private and public sector leaders throughout the 18 counties of Northeast Wisconsin, known as the New North region. The New North brand unites the region both internally and externally around talent development, brand promotion and business development, signifying the collective economic power behind the 18 counties. The counties include Brown, Calumet, Door, Florence, Fond du Lac, Green Lake, Kewaunee, Manitowoc, Marinette, Marquette, Menominee, Oconto, Outagamie, Shawano, Sheboygan, Waupaca, Waushara and Winnebago. www.thenewnorth.com

New North media contact: Jeff Blumb, media@blumbcc.com or 920.328.5454

About Keystone Partners

Keystone Partners is a people-first consulting firm that builds organizational resilience through Leadership Development, Executive Coaching, Coach Certification, and Innovative Career Transition services. Keystone Partners believes that when you invest strategically in your people, your people invest in you.

Keystone Partners media contact: Lisa Smith, MSEd, Senior Partner-Leadership Development, lsmith@keystonepartners.com or 920.284.8326

About Goodwill North Central Wisconsin

Goodwill NCW is a nonprofit organization with a mission of Elevating People by Eliminating Barriers to Employment. We are committed to understanding and addressing the unique needs of our communities. We empower individuals and families, creating a lasting impact by breaking cycles of poverty and transforming lives through skill-building for sustained employment and improved financial stability. We see people for who they are and believe in the power of work, within our retail stores and workplaces throughout our community. We are proud of the life-changing impact we make in our communities and to our planet with the help of our donors and shoppers. Learn more at www.goodwillncw.org.

Summer Evenings Take root at Green Bay Botanical Garden


As Green Bay Botanical Garden celebrates its 30th anniversary, summer evenings take on new life with the return of two reimagined outdoor series: Music in Bloom presented by Employment Resource Group, and Sunset Sessions presented by Sanimax.

Returning with refreshed branding and renewed energy, both series offer distinct ways to experience the Garden after hours — from high-energy tribute concerts to relaxed, family-friendly evenings — set among the beauty of peak seasonal blooms.

Music in Bloom: High-Energy Tribute Concerts

Music in Bloom brings the excitement of live concerts to the Billie Kress Amphitheater in the Schneider Family Grand Garden. Featuring professional tribute bands, the series delivers a lively, high-energy experience designed for a fun night out.

Guests can enjoy:

  • Tribute performances celebrating iconic artists
  • Food trucks and beverages available for purchase. Picnics welcome (excluding beverages).
  • Boxed dinners by FOODelicious, pre-orders only at GBBG.org/MusicInBloom
  • Lawn seating (chairs or blankets encouraged)
  • A vibrant, social concert atmosphere

2026 Lineup

June 12
That’s So Shania (Shania Twain tribute)

July 17
Feels Like the 1st Time (Foreigner tribute)

August 7
Rock of ABBA (ABBA tribute)

September 11
Brews, Bistros, & Bonfires featuring Homegrown (Zac Brown Band tribute)

Sunset Sessions: Relaxed, Family-Friendly Evenings

Sunset Sessions offers a more laid-back way to experience the Garden on select Thursday evenings throughout the summer. Newly refreshed, the series focuses on creating welcoming spaces for guests of all ages to gather, explore, and unwind.

Guests can enjoy:

  • A variety of performances and interactive experiences
  • Room to roam, play, and relax including fun-filled activities
  • Picnics welcome (excluding beverages), with concessions and food trucks available
  • Boxed dinners by Not By Bread Alone, pre-orders only at GBBG.org/Sunset

2026 Lineup

June 18 | American Honey (Trio)
            Activity: DIY Shaker Bar
            Food Truck: Sara’s Artisan Gelato

June 25 | ComedyCity (Improv)
                Activity: Golf Cart Parade
                Food Truck: J Dogz

July 23 | Sweet Acoustics (Acoustic/Electric Rock)
            Activity: Mini-Golf

July 30 | Big Mouth & The Power Tool Horns (Classic Funk/Rock/R&B)
            Activity: Garden Clubs

August 13 | New Generation (Polka)
            Activity: Lawn Game Grove
            Food Truck: Thibby’s Ice Cream

August 20 | The Whiskey Belles (Country/Folk/Americana)
                Activity: Garden Party

Two Ways to Experience Summer at the Garden

While both series take place in the same beautiful setting, they offer distinctly different experiences:

  • Music in Bloom is a lively, ticketed concert experience centered around tribute bands and evening entertainment.
  • Sunset Sessions is a flexible, family-friendly series focused on relaxation, exploration, and a variety of performances.

Together, they reflect a fresh approach to summer programming during the Garden’s milestone year — offering something for every pace and interest.

Plan Your Visit

Both series take place at Green Bay Botanical Garden.

  • Music in Bloom is a ticketed event. Advance purchase is recommended.
  • Sunset Sessions are included with regular Garden admission. Garden Members receive free admission (based on membership level).

For full details and tickets, visit GBBG.org/MusicInBloomSeries or GBBG.org/SunsetSessions.

About Green Bay Botanical Garden  

Celebrating 30 years, Green Bay Botanical Garden connects people with plants by providing year-round educational and recreational experiences for everyone in an environment that engages, inspires, and refreshes. First opened in 1996 and now featuring 47-acres of display gardens and natural areas, the Garden touches the lives of more than 200,000 guests annually on average from northeast Wisconsin and beyond. For more information about other happenings, visit GBBG.org or call 920.490.9457. 

Brown County Tourism Reaches Record Economic Impact Following Historic NFL Draft Year


Brown County’s tourism industry reached new heights in 2025, generating a record-breaking $1.5 billion in total economic impact and reinforcing tourism’s role as a powerful driver of the local economy.

According to newly released data from Tourism Economics, visitors made 6.7 million trips to Brown County in 2025 and spent $909.6 million at local hotels, restaurants, attractions, retailers, and other businesses. The visitor economy supported 11,519 jobs and generated $114.2 million in state and local tax revenue.

The results represent a 6.9% increase in total economic impact and a 7.4% increase in direct visitor spending over 2024.

“Tourism is booming across Wisconsin, and Brown County’s record-setting year demonstrates what’s possible when a world-class destination combines iconic attractions, vibrant communities, and major events that capture national attention,” said Brad Toll, President & CEO of Discover Green Bay. “The 2025 NFL Draft was one of the largest events in our community’s history, providing an unmatched opportunity to showcase Brown County on a global stage.”

The report highlights the significant role major events played in driving growth throughout the year. Visitor spending increased in every quarter of 2025, with the second quarter experiencing the largest jump. Tourism Economics found that direct visitor spending during the second quarter increased by $27.8 million over 2024, accounting for approximately 45% of Brown County’s overall visitor spending growth for the year.

While the NFL Draft provided a major boost, the report also points to strong underlying tourism fundamentals. Hotel revenue increased 9.7% year-over-year, restaurant and recreation-related sales grew nearly 7%, and both day-trip and overnight visitation continued to climb.

Among the report’s key findings:

  • $1.5 billion total economic impact generated by visitors
  • $909.6 million in direct visitor spending
  • 6.7 million visits to Brown County
  • 11,519 jobs supported by the visitor economy
  • $55.2 million in local tax revenue generated
  • $59 million in state tax revenue generated

Tourism’s benefits extend well beyond visitor-facing businesses. The report estimates that visitor-generated state and local taxes offset the tax burden on Brown County residents by approximately $1,030 per household.

“These results demonstrate that investments in destination development, event attraction, and visitor experiences create lasting returns for our entire community,” Toll said. “Whether visitors are attending a major event, enjoying a Packers weekend, exploring our trails and waterways, or supporting local restaurants and shops, tourism continues to strengthen Brown County’s economy and quality of life.”

The full Economic Impact of Tourism in Brown County report was prepared by Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics company, and is based on visitor spending, industry performance, employment, and tax data.

About Discover Green Bay

Discover Green Bay is the official destination marketing organization for Brown County, Wisconsin. Through destination marketing, sales, and visitor services, Discover Green Bay works to grow the visitor economy and enhance quality of life for residents by attracting visitors, meetings, conventions, sporting events, and leisure travelers to the region.

First Cruise Ships of 2026 Roll Into Green Bay Bringing NEarly $330K Of Economic Impact

Victory Cruise Line’s Victory II will arrive at Leicht Park in Downtown Green Bay on June 9 at approximately 7:00 a.m. Passengers will then embark on tours with stops including the National Railroad Museum, Green Bay Botanical Garden, and Lambeau Field.

In total, Green Bay expects 785 passengers to visit the area from 6 cruise ship stops this season, resulting in $327,000 in direct economic impact.

This spending supports shops, restaurants, transportation providers, tour operators, and other small businesses in Green Bay and across the Great Lakes region, underscoring the growing economic importance of cruising to the region.  

In 2026, Cruise the Great Lakes, the region’s cruise marketing program, says that cruising will generate an economic impact of over $310 million (US), a 30% increase from 2025.  Seven cruise lines will bring 10 cruise ships and nearly 25,000 people to the Great Lakes. Over the course of 150 itineraries, that equates to nearly 900 visits to Great Lakes ports and nearly 180,000 passenger visits – all increases over 2025.

“This is a landmark year for cruise ships here in Green Bay,” said Brad Toll, President & CEO of Discover Green Bay. “We’re thrilled to welcome back Victory Cruise lines and their passengers, as well as American Cruise Lines’ newly built American Patriot later this season. They are about to experience Green Bay’s hospitality, and we hope they are inspired to return to the region.”

After docking passengers are welcome to explore the area or join tour busses that will hit major attractions in the Green Bay Area. The ship is expected to depart at approximately 6:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 10.  

Due to construction and for public safety reasons, Leicht Park is closed to non-emergency vehicle traffic on weekdays. Public can view the ship from the east bank of the river, including the Fox River Trail.

Father’s Day at the Zoo Presented by The Stephenson National Bank & Trust

The NEW Zoo & Adventure Park is excited to celebrate Father’s Day, presented by The Stephenson National Bank & Trust! Dads will receive with FREE admission to the NEW Zoo and to the Neil Anderson Canopy Tour plus half-price zips at the Adventure Park on Sunday, June 21st. Discounts will be available at the door.

The first 500 dads will receive a bag of tasty candy treats on arrival, and we encourage you to consider treating dad to something a little “extra WILD” as you plan your visit: Tickets for our Animal Feedings remain available, as do tickets for few different Wild Encounter programs. As you enjoy the zoo, don’t forget to look for the Zoo’s newest dad: American Red Wolf, Blade, is proud father to four young pups that are getting more rambunctious and brave every day. They’re fun to watch as they wrestle and explore!

There will be plenty of other activities to do throughout the day, too. From 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., The Stephenson National Bank & Trust will have a fun activity station for kids and free gifts for dads! Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee Truck will be here selling thirst-quenching beverages and Nothing Bundt Cakes will have an assortment of delicious desserts for sale – so don’t be afraid to come hungry! Both AHT Wisconsin Windows and Everdry Waterproofing will have fun activities for guests to enjoy, too. As always, the Giraffe Feeding Experience and the Children’s Zoo Feeding Experience will be available throughout the day, along with the Endangered Species Carousel (weather permitting).

The Adventure Park is also open for the season and tickets are available online for the Ropes Course and Climbing Wall, Zipline, and Kids Course! Make your reservations today at newzoo.org.

The NEW Zoo & Adventure Park will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Father’s Day, Sunday, June 21st. The final tour for the Canopy Tour will depart at 5:30 p.m.

NEW Zoo & Adventure Park Celebrating World Giraffe Day

The NEW Zoo & Adventure Park invites you to join us for our annual World Giraffe Day celebration on Friday, June 19th, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Proceeds from the event will directly support giraffe conservation efforts in Africa. This event is free with regular zoo admission.

A variety of fun, giraffe-themed activities will be available throughout the day, including kids’ games and crafts, temporary tattoos, behind-the-scenes tours, and more. Guests can meet our resident giraffes at the outdoor Giraffe Feeding Experience, which will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and from 12:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.  There will also be opportunities to greet the giraffes while participating in behind-the-scenes tours of the Giraffe Discovery Center and Lodge. Tours will take place every 15 minutes throughout the day until 2:00 p.m., with a break only for the Giraffe Keeper Chat which will start at 11:30 a.m.

You’ll want to peruse the popular Giraffe Merchandise Sales Tent, which will feature a variety of giraffe-themed crafts and gifts for sale, including paintings made by our very own giraffes! All sales from the merchandise tent and Giraffe Feeding Experience, as well as sales from the Mayan Restaurant’s slushies, will be donated to support giraffe conservation. Weather permitting, proceeds from the Endangered Species Carousel rides and from purchases made at Face Painting Plus by Lori & Friends will also directly support conservation efforts. We’re also excited to say that an all-new bounce house with slide will be available for kids to enjoy (weather permitting), thanks to Dan Dery of Shefchiks’ Energy Services.

Overall giraffe numbers in the wild have dropped drastically in recent decades, with some areas experiencing close to a 95% decline in populations. The NEW Zoo & Adventure Park is proud to support giraffe conservation through both education-based and fundraising efforts.

Miracle LEague of the Fox Valley Takes Everyone Out to the Ballgame

Opening day for the Miracle League of the Fox Valley, a program of Goodwill North Central Wisconsin (NCW), is Monday, June 8. The league is entering its 15th season and will run for eight weeks beginning in June, with 240 players expected to participate this year.

Throughout the season, children and teens with disabilities will have the opportunity to play baseball in an organized, noncompetitive league on a safe, accessible field. In addition to learning the fundamentals of the game, players will develop teamwork skills, strengthen social connections and build self-confidence.

Each player is paired with a community volunteer who provides assistance and encouragement during games. Hundreds of volunteers, including pitchers, umpires, announcers and coaches, play a vital role in making each season possible.

“It’s our privilege to provide a place where individuals of all abilities can enjoy America’s pastime, said Tim Wavrunek, Mission Team Leader at Goodwill NCW.  “This league thrives thanks to the dedication of our leadership, families, volunteers and the generous sponsors who help make inclusivity a standard in our community.”

Volunteers are always needed. To learn more about the league, visit goodwillncw.org/mlfv.

Games are played at 5:30 and 7 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at John Wollner Fox Cities Miracle Field in Memorial Park, 1620 E. Witzke Blvd, Appleton.

Goodwill North Central Wisconsin (Goodwill NCW) is a nonprofit organization with a mission of Elevating People by Eliminating Barriers to Employment. We provide pathways to those who are disadvantaged who have a goal of building job skills that lead to sustained employment and improved financial stability. We see people for who they are and believe in the power of work, within our retail stores and workplaces throughout our community. We are proud of the life-changing impact we make in our communities and to our planet with the help of our donors and shoppers. Learn more at goodwillncw.org

Miracle LEague of the Lakeshore Takes Everyone Out to the Ballgame

Opening day for the Miracle League of the Lakeshore, a program of Goodwill North Central Wisconsin (Goodwill NCW), is Monday, June 8. The League is entering its 12th season and will run for eight weeks beginning in June, with 79 players expected to participate this year.

Throughout the season, children and teens with disabilities will have the opportunity to play baseball in an organized, noncompetitive league on a safe, accessible field. In addition to learning the fundamentals of the game, players will develop teamwork skills, strengthen social connections and build self-confidence.

Each player is paired with a community volunteer who provides assistance and encouragement during games. Hundreds of volunteers, including pitchers, umpires, announcers and coaches, play a vital role in making each season possible.

“It’s our privilege to provide a place where individuals of all abilities can enjoy America’s pastime,” said Tim Wavrunek, Mission Team Leader at Goodwill NCW.  “This league thrives thanks to the dedication of our leadership, families, volunteers, and the generous sponsors who help make inclusivity a standard in our community.”

Volunteers are always needed. To learn more about the league, visit http://www.goodwillncw.org/mll.

Games are played at 5:30 and 7 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays at the Goodwill Miracle League Field of Dreams, 1840 S 35th Street, Manitowoc.

Goodwill North Central Wisconsin (Goodwill NCW) is a nonprofit organization with a mission of Elevating People by Eliminating Barriers to Employment. We provide pathways to those who are disadvantaged who have a goal of building job skills that lead to sustained employment and improved financial stability. We see people for who they are and believe in the power of work, within our retail stores and workplaces throughout our community. We are proud of the life-changing impact we make in our communities and to our planet with the help of our donors and shoppers. Learn more at goodwillncw.org 

Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach, Named as Recipient of the 2026 Achievement Citation at Assembly 2026

The Catholic Health Association of the United States (CHA) has announced Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach (HSMO) as the recipient of the 2026 Achievement Citation at Assembly 2026. The organization was honored at the Assembly 2026 awards banquet on June 3.

Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach addresses critical global needs by strengthening health systems, expanding access to medical care, and promoting sustainable development. As a Medical Supply and Equipment Recovery Organization, HSMO collects, refurbishes, and distributes quality medical supplies and equipment in low-resource countries. Beyond donations, HSMO provides technical biomedical support, empowering partner communities to build lasting health infrastructure, equip trained professionals, and create economic development. HSMO aims to ensure every donation is usable, repairable, and appropriate to the setting.

“Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach is honored to be selected for this prestigious award,” said Erica Smith, executive director of HSMO. “Our work is a collaborative effort that depends on many Catholic health systems around the nation for donations. Across the globe, each year Mission Outreach’s contributions support clinical healthcare access for 28,000,000 people in low-resource areas. This recognition from CHA shows the impact that can be made when Catholic health entities work together to help people and communities in need.”

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2026 – This is Assembly 2026 presented by the Catholic Health Association (CHA) at the Marriott St. Louis Grand. ©Photo by Jerry Naunheim Jr.

Each year, CHA’s Achievement Citation recognizes an outstanding program or service that exemplifies the ministry’s commitment to carry on Jesus’ mission of compassion and healing. The Achievement Citation is given to a CHA-member organization that is the creator and lead sponsor or partner in an original, bold, innovative program that delivers measurable results for the community served. Programs are selected because they are inspirational for the sponsoring organization, the people it serves, the community, and beyond, and they will be available for replication within CHA’s membership.

The annual Catholic Health Assembly is the largest gathering of Catholic healthcare leaders in the United States. This two-and-a-half-day event is hosted in an interactive platform where attendees engage with speakers, connect with colleagues, and create new friendships.

About Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach

Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach is a medical surplus recovery organization founded in 2002 by the Hospital Sisters of St. Francis and is now a ministry of Hospital Sisters Health System. More than 80 hospitals and clinics from around the Midwest donate surplus medical supplies and equipment to Mission Outreach, which are then made available to partners in low-resource areas around the world. For more information about Hospital Sisters Mission Outreach, visit mission-outreach.org.

About the CHA

The Catholic Health Association of the United States is the national leadership organization of the Catholic health ministry, representing the largest nonprofit provider of healthcare services in the nation.

  • 1 in 7 patients in the U.S. is cared for in a Catholic hospital each day.
  • Catholic healthcare, which includes more than 2,200 hospitals, nursing homes, long-term care facilities, systems, sponsors, and related organizations, serves the full continuum of health care across our nation.
  • Learn more at www.chausa.org.

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