Member News Archives | Page 10 of 35 | Greater Green Bay Chamber

New $1M Consortium Positions NOrtheast Wisconsin As Statewide LEaders in Innovation

In a demonstration of regional collaboration, the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay and New North, Inc. are proud to announce their joint leadership in the Cheese Wedge Consortium, a major entrepreneurship initiative supported through a dedicated $1 million Ignite Wisconsin grant for Northeast Wisconsin.

This award specifically fuels the region’s unique strategy to accelerate high‑growth startups, expand innovation capacity and strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem across the 18‑county New North region. The consortium—led by New North, Inc.—builds on the organization’s longstanding leadership in Northeast Wisconsin and leverages the future Phoenix Innovation Park’s deep integration with UW‑Green Bay.

“Entrepreneurship cultivates the innovation and curiosity needed to solve real-world problems,” said New North President and CEO, Patti Habeck. “When strong partners come together with shared purpose, we don’t just support startups — we build a resilient, thriving regional economy.”

This unified platform will connect universities, corporations, investors and service providers to create an energized and coordinated pipeline for entrepreneurship.

“Supporting the community’s economic needs and driving entrepreneurship for everyone in the region are at the core of who we are,” said UW‑Green Bay Chancellor Michael Alexander. “This consortium amplifies our commitment to working collaboratively, advancing statewide education and economic development, and ensuring learners of all ages have access to the skills they need to succeed.”

Driving Results for the Region

UW‑Green Bay and New North have collaborated for years to advance economic growth, workforce development and innovation across Northeast Wisconsin.

The consortium’s design leverages:

New North’s established network of regional partners and deep expertise in convening business, community and government leaders.
UW‑Green Bay’s emerging Phoenix Innovation Park, positioned to serve as a dynamic hub connecting universities, corporations, investors and service providers.
National accelerator gener8tor, which will deliver programming and mentorship directly to founders.

This joint platform is intentionally region-first, ensuring Northeast Wisconsin receives the strategic focus and resources needed to strengthen its entrepreneurial brand, talent pipeline and business competitiveness.

The Cheese Wedge Consortium will support:

Accelerator programming tailored to regional needs
Pre‑seed bootcamps
Corporate innovation and engagement
Equity investments for startups
Legal and housing stipends for relocating founders
Co‑working space and community-based outreach

In its first year alone, the consortium is projected to support 21 startups, engage 42 participants, fund 18 companies directly, create 46 new jobs and generate $3.4 million in regional revenue. These outcomes reflect the consortium’s commitment to building a high-impact, high-visibility entrepreneurship engine for Northeast Wisconsin.

UW‑Green Bay’s participation demonstrates its growing leadership as the region’s access‑driven university and as a driver of lifelong learning and talent development. The partnership with New North strengthens:

The university’s role in solving regional challenges
Opportunities for students, entrepreneurs and industry to collaborate
Access to applied research and faculty expertise
The development of in-demand workforce skills

Driving Wisconsin’s Entrepreneurial Future — Starting in the New North Region

Gov. Evers’ Ignite Wisconsin initiative invests more than $3.5 million statewide across four consortiums to strengthen high-growth startup sectors. The Cheese Wedge Consortium is uniquely positioned to elevate Northeast Wisconsin’s innovation profile and accelerate high-potential startups that will directly impact the region’s economy.

New North and UW‑Green Bay leadership will continue working closely with WEDC and local partners to ensure this investment strengthens the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and draws attention to Northeast Wisconsin as a destination for talent, capital and opportunity.

About New North, Inc.

New North, Inc., is a 501(c)3 non-profit, regional economic development corporation fostering 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

About UW-Green Bay
The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay is a school of resilient problem solvers who dare to reach higher with the power of education that ignites growth and answers the biggest challenges. Serving 11,500 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students as well as 101,000 continuing education learners annually, UW-Green Bay offers 200 academic degrees, programs, and certificates. With campuses in Green Bay, Manitowoc and Sheboygan, and a theatre in Marinette, the University’s access mission welcomes all students who want to learn, from every corner of the world. Championing bold thinking since opening its doors in 1965, it is a university on the rise – Wisconsin’s fastest growing UW. For more information, visit www.uwgb.edu.

The Score Expands Local Sports Lineup with NEw Midday Programming

The Score (WSCO 1570 AM / 95.3 FM / 99.1 FM) is proud to announce a major expansion of its local sports programming. Today, the station premiered a revamped midday lineup featuring veteran voices and fresh perspectives to provide unparalleled coverage of local, statewide, and national sports.

The Bullpen with PJ and Nick (Weekdays, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM)

Leading the new slate is The Bullpen with PJ and Nick. The show pairs Paul Johnson (P.J.), a veteran voice in Northeast Wisconsin radio and Assistant Brand Manager for The Score, with Nick Vitrano, current co-host of 95.9 KISS FM Mornings.

“I feel very fortunate to talk sports every day with Nick Vitrano,” said Johnson. “Some of my favorite conversations through the years have revolved around sports, and I’m excited to share that energy with our listeners. We’ll cover the big games, but we’ll also wander into other topics—you never know what you’ll get.”

The Show with Tony G and Leo (Weekdays, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM)

Following The Bullpen, the station welcomes back the legendary Leo Kiper, Jr. to the airwaves. He is joined by new co-host Tony Giordano for The Show with Tony G and Leo.

Giordano, a mainstay in the local sports community and a Sales Executive for Woodward Community Media, brings a unique business and community-driven perspective to the booth. The duo takes the baton from “Balky,” who is transitioning from the station to pursue new creative endeavors.

“Joining The Score full-time alongside Leo Kiper Jr. is an incredible opportunity,” said Giordano. “Leo and I share a natural chemistry that will translate into an engaging show. I’m grateful to Woodward Community Media for their trust and am eager to bring my energy to the airwaves every day.”

A Commitment to Local Voices

These changes reflect The Score’s dedication to being the premier destination for Northeast Wisconsin fans—covering everything from the Green Bay Packers and Milwaukee Bucks to local high school rivalries.

“We are energized by this evolution,” said Alex Thomas, Brand Manager for WHBY and The Score. “Pairing a talent like Nick Vitrano with a pro like Paul Johnson, and bringing Leo Kiper, Jr. back to team up with Tony G, allows us to deliver the authentic conversation our listeners crave.”

Listeners can stream both shows live at thescorewi.com or via the Score WI app.

About The Score:

The Score (WSCO 1570 AM / 95.3 FM / 99.1 FM) is the Fox Valley’s home for sports, providing comprehensive coverage of local, regional, and national teams.

About Woodward Community Media:

Woodward Community Media (WCM) is an employee-owned company operating six broadcast brands in Northeast Wisconsin, including WHBY, 105.7 WAPL, Razor 94.7/104.7, 95.9 KISS FM, 104.3 The Fuse, and The Score.

Green Bay Botranical Garden Welcomes New Board Member

Green Bay Botanical Garden has recently welcomed a new addition to its Board of Directors, Jeanine Govek.

Following a successful career as Vice President of Strategy & Market Development at Bellin Health, Jeanine Govek is transitioning her focus to volunteering and supporting growth of the local community. She currently volunteers at Green Bay Botanical Garden and Unity Resale Shoppe. Govek also consults with local organizations to help mentor and guide leadership teams in translating their strategic goals into measurable actions and sustainable success.

“I am a strategic leader with a passion for helping local organizations thrive,” Govek says. “My work tagline has been: ‘Working together with purpose to achieve more than we ever could alone.’ This translates so well as I lean into my next chapter.”

As a member of the Garden Board, she’s “eager to listen and learn,” so she can leverage her knowledge in strategic planning and market development to “help the Garden flourish as a premier regional destination, ultimately making Green Bay a special place to live.”

Govek is also an avid reader and passionate gardener, finding her happy place in the pages of a good book or time spent in her gardens.

View current members and advisors on the Garden’s Board of Directors at GBBG.org/Board.

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About Green Bay Botanical Garden

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 visitors annually on average from northeast Wisconsin and beyond. For more information about other happenings, visit GBBG.org or call 920.490.9457.

Cornerstone Business Services to Host STate of M&A Conference 2026 on April 28 in Green Bay

Cornerstone Business Services, a lower middle market investment banking firm, will host the State of M&A Conference 2026 on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at the Oneida Hotel & Conference Center in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

State of M&A is northeast Wisconsin’s premier annual conference focused on mergers and acquisitions. Now in its eighth year, the conference is built for business owners, CEOs, and deal professionals who want a realistic view of the M&A market and guidance they can act on. Attendees include business owners, private equity professionals, lenders, CPAs, attorneys, financial advisors, and business consultants who work closely with owners on growth, acquisition, and exit planning.

“Owners hear a lot of opinions about the market, but they rarely get the full picture in one place. The State of M&A is designed to bring real-world perspective from people who are in transactions every day, so owners and advisors can make decisions with better information and finish strong with fewer surprises.”— Scott Bushkie, Managing Partner

The conference is a full-day event with registration and networking beginning at 8:00 am and sessions running from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. The $110 registration fee includes a light breakfast, lunch, and a cocktail hour networking reception.

If you’re planning to grow, acquire, or eventually sell a business, this conference is built to give you clarity and practical insight, not just theory.

Attendees can expect to leave with:

A clear view of current M&A and economic conditions
Insight into what buyers and lenders are prioritizing right now
Practical ways to strengthen value before a transaction
Lessons learned from recent lower middle market deals
Connections with professionals who are active in transactions today

Keynote presentations will cover both value and the economic landscape, including:

Value Acceleration: Aligning Business, Personal and Financial Goals for Maximum Value, presented by Scott Snider, President of the Exit Planning Institute
2026 Economic Outlook, presented by Corey Schroer, CFA, Goldman Sachs

The day also features multiple breakout sessions, along with the crowd favorite Lower Middle Market Shark Tank. The Shark Tank is a private equity panel where four firms evaluate a hypothetical target company and submit confidential bids in real time. Each firm then presents its offer, giving attendees a real-world look at competitive valuation, key value drivers, and how deal structure comes together in the lower middle market.

About Cornerstone Business Services

Founded in 2001, Cornerstone Business Services is an investment bank serving the lower middle market and specializing in transactions for businesses with annual revenue of $5 million to $250 million. Headquartered in Green Bay, Wisconsin, the firm advises business owners throughout North America on sell-side transactions, acquisitions, and valuation services, including its Real Market Analysis (RMA).

Cornerstone’s Assurance 360™ process is designed to create multiple qualified offers and improve deal certainty. Over the past five years, the firm has maintained an average closing ratio of about 85%. Cornerstone also publishes original research on business owner readiness and exits, including the 2025 National Study on Selling Your Business. Cornerstone’s mission is to create a positive life-changing event for all the lives they touch.

Give BIG Green Bay launches at noon February 25th

Hosted by the Greater Green Bay Community Foundation and the Green Bay Packers Foundation, this community-wide event allows anyone to give, for as little as $5, to support local nonprofits. A $250,000 grant from the Packers Foundation establishes a matching fund, with additional contributions from the Community Foundation and other donors bringing the total match and incentives to more than $550,000. Since 2018, Give BIG Green Bay has raised over $17 million for 154 local nonprofits.

Members of the media are invited to Johnsonville Tailgate Village to celebrate the start of Give BIG Green Bay, where interview and photo opportunities will be available with nonprofit representatives and the Community Foundation team.

2026 Kickoff Celebration:

Who: Greater Green Bay Community Foundation and Green Bay Packers, as well as staff and volunteers from participating nonprofits.

What: Kicking off the start of giving for Give BIG Green Bay 2026.

When: Feb. 25 from 11 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (Brief remarks at 11:30 a.m.)

Where: Johnsonville Tailgate Village

Interviews/Photo opportunities: Nonprofit group representatives and the Greater Green Bay Community Foundation team will be available for interviews.

Visit givebiggreenbay.org throughout the 24 hours for real-time giving totals and leaderboards.

Media Contact:

Erika Ritchie

Greater Green Bay Community Foundation

920-432-0800

erikaritchie@ggbcf.org

About the Greater Green Bay Community Foundation

Established in 1991, the Greater Green Bay Community Foundation inspires and encourages charitable giving in Northeast Wisconsin by providing simple and smart giving tools, impactful grants, and collaborative leadership to address critical community needs. Since inception, the Foundation has awarded more than $224 million in grants supporting a broad range of organizations and initiatives. In the last fiscal year, together with its donors, $19.4 million was distributed. Today, the Foundation manages more than 800 charitable funds with assets exceeding $193 million. www.ggbcf.org

About the Green Bay Packers Foundation

The Green Bay Packers Foundation was established in 1986 as a vehicle to assure continued contributions to charity. It supports a variety of nonprofit organizations across the state of Wisconsin through its annual grant cycle and impact grants. The Foundation has distributed more than $29.55 million for charitable purposes since its inception and is a component of Green Bay Packers Give Back, the organization’s all-encompassing community outreach initiative. Packers Give Back includes appearances by players, alumni, coaches and staff, monetary and in-kind donations, community events, Make-A-Wish visits, football outreach and much more. These efforts contribute to an annual charity impact in excess of $13 million.

The Wisconsin Doulas Association Hosts 2026 Statewide Doula Conference in Green Bay

The Wisconsin Doulas Association (WDA) will host its 2026 Statewide Doula Conference, Collective Knowledge, on February 27–28, bringing together doulas, maternal health workers, nurses, midwives, public health leaders, mental health professionals, tribal representatives, and birth justice advocates from across Wisconsin. The event will be held at the Oneida Casino Hotel, 2020 Airport Drive, Green Bay, WI 54313.

This biennial event focuses on strengthening Wisconsin’s perinatal workforce through hands-on education, regional leadership development, policy engagement, and culturally grounded care practices.

Doulas play a critical role in improving maternal and infant outcomes by, supporting families between clinical touchpoints, reducing stress and unnecessary interventions, increasing patient satisfaction and strengthening communication between families and providers.

Through workforce development, regional leadership, and policy engagement, this conference advances a sustainable model for integrating doulas within Wisconsin’s broader maternal health system.

Wisconsin continues to face maternal health disparities, workforce shortages, and uneven access to culturally responsive perinatal support — particularly in rural, tribal, and underserved communities.

There are several opportunities for media to engage with the event, including:

Interviews with WDA leadership and regional coordinators
Remarks from Governor Tony Evers (video message)
Special appearance by gubernatorial candidate Francesca Hong
Coverage of Indigenous doulas storytelling session
Hands-on birth skills demonstrations (labor positioning tools, newborn tools)
Insight into Wisconsin’s maternal health workforce trends
Medicaid and insurance reimbursement policy discussions
Vendor fair featuring Wisconsin-based birthwork organizations

Quick Conference Highlights for Media Scheduling:

Friday, February 27

Hands-on skills stations: Comfortable Upright Birth (CUB), hospital bed positioning, newborn support tools
Indigenous doulas: history, storytelling, and lived experience
Statewide policy and Title V updates impacting the doula workforce
Networking reception and exhibitor hall

Saturday, February 28

Keynote address by Bianca Shaw, Wisconsin Women’s Network
Contracts & legal protections for doulas session
Maternal mental health panel
Vaccine communication & scope-of-practice panel
Regional networking lunch
WDA Annual Meeting

MEDIA RSVP

Media are encouraged to attend all or part of the event. To schedule interviews or confirm attendance, contact emily@widoulas.org.

ST. Norbert College Announces Petere Wicks as Part of Killeen Chair Speaker Series

St. Norbert College will host a public lecture Monday, March 23, as part of its Killeen Chair of Theology & Philosophy Speaker Series.

Peter Wicks, a scholar‑in‑residence at the Elm Institute, will present “Alasdair MacIntyre’s Influence on 20th & 21st Century Philosophy.” The lecture marks the one‑year anniversary of the death of MacIntyre, a leading figure in contemporary moral philosophy, and will examine his influence on virtue ethics and Aristotelian thought.

The event is free and open to the public. A reception with beverages and desserts will follow.

What:
Killeen Chair of Theology & Philosophy lecture, “Alasdair MacIntyre’s Influence on 20th & 21st Century Philosophy”

Who:
Peter Wicks, scholar‑in‑residence, Elm Institute

When:
7-8:15 p.m. Monday, March 23, 2026

Where:
Fort Howard Theater, F.K. Bemis International Center
St. Norbert College, De Pere, Wisconsin

Admission:
Free

More information:
snc.edu/wick

Experience Inbound 2026 Opens Registration for Wisconsin’s Premier Marketing & Sales Conference at Brookfield Conference Center and Lambeau Field

Marketing agencies Weidert Group of Appleton and Stream Creative of Milwaukee announce the opening of registration for Experience Inbound 2026, Wisconsin’s leading marketing and sales conference. The event brings together growth-minded professionals for practical insights on AI, zero-click marketing, paid media, search visibility, storytelling, and scalable revenue strategies.

Experience Inbound 2026 is a full-day event and will take place in two Wisconsin cities and standout venues: Tuesday, April 28 at the Brookfield Conference Center in Milwaukee, and Wednesday, April 29 at Lambeau Field in Green Bay.

“We take pride in creating an experience that goes beyond theory and delivers practical takeaways in an intimate, highly interactive setting,” said Jeff Coon, partner at Stream Creative.

Designed for marketing and sales leaders, Experience Inbound delivers actionable, real-world strategies attendees can immediately apply to improve visibility, engagement, and pipeline performance. Sessions will explore topics including zero-click marketing, AI-powered personalization, modern search visibility, paid media precision, design thinking, storytelling, and revenue alignment — all led by nationally recognized speakers and regional experts.

“Experience Inbound is built to help teams work smarter, embrace emerging technologies, and drive meaningful growth in today’s rapidly changing marketing landscape,” said Greg Linnemanstons, president of Weidert Group.

Featured Sessions and Speakers Include:

● Zero-Click Marketing: How to Win Big When No One Wants to Click Anymore — Amanda Natividad, VP of Marketing, SparkToro

● The Funny Side of Marketing: The Power of Laughing at Ourselves — Tom Fishburne, creator of Marketoonist

● The Ferris Bueller Guide to Smarter Storytelling — Rob Biesenbach, communication speaker, coach, and author of Unleash the Power of Storytelling

● The Loop: A Modern Marketer’s Guide to Scalable Success — Kyle Denhoff, Senior Director of Marketing, HubSpot

● 40 AI Tools in 40 Minutes — Mike Kaput, Chief Content Officer, SmarterX

● Precision Beats Volume: Smarter Paid Media for B2B Marketers — Ryan Blute, Director of Sales, Q1Media

Unmute Yourself: How to Stand Out in a Crowded Social Media World — Shaily Hakimian, Owner, Your Social Media Sherpa

● Insights to Impact: A Practical Design Thinking Framework for Marketing & Sales Growth — Tony Bynum, Associate Professor of Practice and Director, ID Executive Academy

● The New Search Visibility Playbook for B2B Growth Marketers — Chelsea Drusch, VP, Marketing & Sales Growth Solutions, Weidert Group

● The Growth Engine Framework: How B2B Teams Build Smarter, Scalable Revenue Programs — Frank Isca, Director of Business Development, Weidert Group

● Small Wins, Big Impact: Focusing on the Metrics that Matter — Jeff Coon, Partner, Stream Creative

● A Non-Technical Guide to Vibe Coding: Building Micro-Apps for Hyper-Personal Marketing and Sales — Brian Brinkman, Founding Partner, Stream Creative For more information about Experience Inbound 2026 or to register, visit www.experienceinbound.com and follow @WeidertGroup, @StreamCreative, and @ExpInbound on social media.

About Weidert Group, Inc.

Weidert Group, founded in 1980, is a full-service HubSpot Diamond partner agency helping industrials and the businesses that serve them grow through integrated marketing and sales. A HubSpot partner since 2011, the company provides all components of effective marketing and sales efforts including lead gen, marketing and sales automation, web design, SEO, content and social strategy, HubSpot implementation, voice of the customer programs, and sales enablement. Clients represent business-to-business organizations in complex industries such as industrial manufacturing, distribution, logistics, and professional services. Weidert experts regularly share insights on The ChangeOver Podcast, covering the latest in industrial marketing and sales.

About Stream Creative

Stream Creative’s mission is to empower sales and marketing teams to solve critical business challenges. Founded in 2006 by Jeff Coon, Steve James, and Brian Brinkman, the team strives to be trusted partners at the intersection of creativity and technology. As a Platinum Level HubSpot Partner, Stream Creative specializes in integrated marketing strategies designed to turn marketing challenges into measurable growth — all with Midwestern values, quiet confidence, and a commitment to hard work. For actionable sales and marketing tips, subscribe to Streamlined Podcast Network. For more information about Stream Creative, visit www.streamcreative.com.

Peshtigo National Bank Marks 125 Years Serving Local Communities

When Peshtigo National Bank opened its doors in 1901, the goal was straightforward. Provide reliable financial services to a growing community that needed a bank it could trust.

One hundred twenty-five years later, that original mission still defines the institution.

In 2026, the locally owned community bank is celebrating its 125th anniversary, a milestone reached by only a small number of Wisconsin headquartered banks. While the financial industry has undergone waves of consolidation and change, Peshtigo National Bank has remained independent and closely tied to the communities it serves.

Bank leaders say that consistency has never been accidental.

A Small Beginning with Long Reach

Peshtigo National Bank was chartered on February 4, 1901, with capital stock of twenty-five thousand dollars. In its first year, the bank reported just over seven thousand dollars in cash on hand.

From those modest beginnings, the institution has grown to manage approximately three hundred million dollars in assets.

The path between those two numbers reflects more than simple growth. It tells the story of a bank that navigated economic downturns, national crises and sweeping changes in how financial services are delivered.

“The goal has always been to stay rooted,” said Kelly M. Heroux, President and CEO. “We have focused on serving the people and businesses who count on us, no matter what is happening around us.”

Expanding Carefully Over Time

For much of the twentieth century, Peshtigo National Bank operated solely from its hometown. That changed in the early 2000s when leadership began a measured expansion into neighboring communities.

The bank opened a Marinette branch in 2004, followed by additional locations in Coleman, Gillett and Oconto Falls. In 2019, it entered the Antigo market with a loan services office that was later expanded into a full-service branch in 2024.

According to Heroux, the pace of that growth was intentional.

“Our philosophy has always been to find the right people first and build around them,” she said. “Strong relationships drive everything we do.”

During one significant growth period, deposits rose from fifty-two million dollars to one hundred fifty-six million dollars, while total assets increased from fifty-eight million dollars to one hundred seventy-seven million dollars. The expansion positioned the bank to provide full-service banking across multiple counties in Northeast Wisconsin.

Community Banking in Practice

While the bank’s footprint has grown, leadership emphasizes that its identity remains grounded in community involvement.

Employees volunteer throughout the region, serve on nonprofit boards and support local youth programs and civic initiatives. The bank also contributes financially to organizations that strengthen the communities where its customers live and work.

“The money stays here,” Heroux said. “Whether it is your local softball team, a school project or an updated playground, we are out there volunteering and supporting it.”

She noted that many customer relationships extend well beyond routine transactions.

“People come in for conversations they do not have with anyone else because everything is confidential,” she said. “You are not just their banker. You are a trusted partner and a resource.”

Decisions Made Close to Home

One factor that distinguishes Peshtigo National Bank is its local ownership structure. Since 1989, the bank has operated under single local ownership, allowing leadership to respond quickly to customer needs without layers of outside approval.

“The larger you get, the more red tape there is,” Heroux said. “We do not have that. It is a quick turnaround in most cases.”

That flexibility has proven especially valuable in agricultural and small business lending, areas where financing often requires a deeper understanding of local conditions.

“Agriculture is very cyclical,” Heroux said. “Commodity prices move up and down, so you have to be willing to work through both the highs and the lows.”

Preparing for What Comes Next

Like most financial institutions, Peshtigo National Bank continues to evaluate emerging technologies, including automation, digital banking tools and artificial intelligence. Leadership says the challenge is adopting innovation without losing the personal connection customers expect.

“Technology has to enhance relationships, not replace them,” Heroux said.

The bank continues to explore thoughtful growth opportunities while maintaining strong positions in agricultural and small business lending. At the same time, leaders are increasing outreach to students and young professionals to help build the future workforce.

“In the long run, it is about mindful growth and retaining good people,” Heroux said.

Still Focused on Trust

As Peshtigo National Bank enters its 125th year, leadership says the institution is not trying to become the largest bank in the region.

Instead, the focus remains on something that has guided the organization since 1901.

Trust.

“We want you to come in and see your neighbor and connect,” Heroux said. “When a community bank disappears, you lose a major pillar.”

In the communities the bank serves, that presence continues to matter. And after more than a century in operation, Peshtigo National Bank is working to ensure it remains a familiar and trusted part of the local landscape for many years to come.

Learn more about anniversary celebrations planned throughout 2026 at pnbwi.com.

Insight Names 2026 40 Under 40 Honorees

Insight Publications has named the recipients of its 2026 40 Under 40 Awards, recognizing 40 young professionals who are driving innovation and shaping the future of Northeast Wisconsin. From technology and health care to finance, law and nonprofit service, this year’s class reflects the extraordinary depth of talent throughout the region.

The 2026 40 Under 40 class will be featured in the June issue of Insight and at an awards celebration Thursday, May 28, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Appleton Flight Center. The event will include networking, hors d’oeuvres and a program recognizing the honorees.

A selection committee, including past 40 Under 40 honorees and members of Insight’s editorial team, chose the recipients out of more than 120 nominations from across the 18-county region. Nominees were evaluated on their professional achievements, leadership and civic involvement.

“From tech innovators to community organizers, this year’s cohort is redefining what it means to make an impact,” said Insight Publisher Angela O’Kray. “We couldn’t be prouder to celebrate them.”

This year’s 40 Under 40 class includes:

Matt Adamczyk, Technologist Director, TechSpark | Microsoft
Rossemary Alcantara, Owner, Salon Fifty Four
Hannah Basile, Director of Program Services & Training, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Bay & Lakes Region
Chad Bianchi, Vice President Financial Planning & Analysis, Syniverse Technologies
Dr. Brad Burmeister, Emergency Department Physician, Emplify Health by Bellin
Lucas Calawerts, Senior Vice President, Senior Financial Advisor, Merrill
Dr. Kevin Campbell, Orthopedic Surgeon & Co-Founder/CEO, STREAMD
Heather Chantelois-Kashal, Program and Operations Director, Fox Valley Literacy
Jordan Destree, AVP of Brand + Design, Community First Credit Union
Trent Duerr, President, Milltown Paper, Inc.
Kevin Englebert, Development & Land Services Director, Outagamie County
Jon Fischer, Attorney, McCarty Law LLP
John Melchert, Co-Owner & Marketing Manager, Harp Gallery Antiques & Furniture
Kayla Fischer, Development Director, Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Central Wisconsin
Hollie Foley, Marketing & Brand Manager, Appleton International Airport
Sam Graner, Vice President of Engineering, Somerville Architects and Engineers
Dustin Gresen, President & Owner, Preferred Cabinet Solutions
Corenne Gutierrez, Director of Marketing and Communications, Legacy Private Trust Company
Austin Hammond, Mayor, City of Menasha
Alison Faris Helleberg, President, United Manufacturers, Inc. & Faris Gourmet Popcorn
Kayla Hill, Director of Talent Acquisition, U.S. Venture
Nicole Hurd, Founder, Auvia Health Inc.
Kevin Ignacio, President, Marion Body Works
Lucas Jadin, Founder & CEO, Jadin | Jones
Cameron Karlen, Managing Director – Valuation Services, Cornerstone Business Services, Inc.
Emily Kling, Wealth Associate, Legacy Private Trust Company
Alayne Krause, County Administrator, Sheboygan County
Abby Liebergen, CFO, Gustman Automotive Group
Patrick J. Leigl, Attorney, Von Briesen & Roper s.c.
Megan Mashl, Chief Operating Officer, St. Paul Elder Services
Kayla Nabbefeld, Partner, Wipfli
Bill J. Schmidt, Process Engineer, Nicolet Plastics, LLC
Miranda Schultz, Executive Vice President – CFO & COO, Wolf River Community Bank
Bethany Skorik, Director of Communications, Fincantieri Marine Group
Jesus Gregorio Smith, Associate Professor of Ethnic Studies, Lawrence University
Samantha Sperberg, President, Shawano Area Young Professionals Organization (SAYPRO)
Morgan Elizabeth Teal, Community Relations Director, Community First Credit Union
Cassandra Wallace, Director of Strategic Communications, ThedaCare
Kimberly Waterson, Manager, Commercial Lines Policy Administration, Jewelers Mutual Group
Parker Wolf, Grants & Community Engagement Manager, U.S. Venture

Event registration is open now through May 26. To register, visit insightonbusiness.com/40U40.

The 40 Under 40 Awards program is made possible through the generous support of presenting sponsor Miron Construction Co., Inc., major sponsor Appleton Airport and champagne sponsor Legacy Private Trust Company.