Member News Archives | Page 12 of 23 | Greater Green Bay Chamber

Supporting Strong and Effective Local Leadership

The Greater Green Bay Community Foundation has launched the Nonprofit Leaders Collaborative, a pilot program designed to support strong and effective leadership of local nonprofit organizations. Funded through the Foundation’s Nonprofit Impact Initiative, with support from Brown County United Way and expertise provided by Ascent Leadership, the program offers a mix of cohort-based learning, mentorship, and peer connection for executive directors.

Since launching the Nonprofit Impact Initiative (NII) in 2019, the Foundation has invested in building the capacities of nonprofits through grants, educational resources, and technical assistance so they can effectively deliver their missions. But a critical gap remained: Few affordable programs focus on the unique challenges of nonprofit executive directors or provide the peer networks and mentorship that leaders are seeking.

The Nonprofit Leaders Collaborative was created to fill that gap by offering:

Cohort-based learning rooted in real-world nonprofit leadership challenges
Practical, actionable content leaders can apply immediately
Personalized mentorship from seasoned nonprofit executives who serve as thought partners and guides
Spaces for peer connection, allowing leaders to build relationships, share insights, and strengthen resilience together

“Investing in the continued growth of local nonprofit leaders is a key piece of supporting the nonprofits who are doing critical work in our community,” said Zianya Saldana, Director of Community Partnerships & Initiatives at the Greater Green Bay Community Foundation. “The Nonprofit Leaders Collaborative is a result of the feedback received from local leaders who were seeking an affordable opportunity to connect, learn, and grow alongside their peers.”

The Foundation’s goal is to secure additional funding to support future cohorts and continue building a strong, connected network of nonprofit leaders in Greater Green Bay.

For more information about the Nonprofit Leaders Collaborative and the Nonprofit Impact Initiative, visit www.ggbcf.org/community-initiatives/nonprofit-impact-initiative.

Announcing the 2026 Hall of Fame Wisconsin Titan 100 Recipients

Titan CEO and headline sponsors Associated Bank and Wipfli LLP are pleased to announce Jessica Diederich, CEO, Greater Green Bay Habitat for Humanity, as a 2026 Wisconsin Titan 100 Honoree. The Titan 100 program recognizes Wisconsin’s Top 100 CEOs & C-level executives. They are the area’s most accomplished business leaders in their industry using criteria that include demonstrating exceptional leadership, vision, and passion. Collectively, the 2026 Wisconsin Titan 100 and their companies employ over 64,000 individuals and generate over $14 billion in annual revenues. This year’s honorees will be published in a limited-edition Titan 100 book and profiled exclusively online. They will be honored at the annual awards ceremony on January 29th, 2026, and will be given the opportunity to interact and connect multiple times throughout the year with their fellow Titans.

Titan award recipients are allowed to make the Titan 100 list for up to three years, with each year getting progressively more difficult. To make it to the Hall of Fame, Titans must complete on-camera interviews and answer a series of questions where they do not know what will be asked in front of a live judging committee. The Titan 100 Hall of Fame are a class of elite executives that have consistently shown over the past three years their ability to demonstrate the characteristics of a Titan who is a pillar of our community.

This year’s Titan 100 embody the true diversity of Wisconsin’s business landscape. Representing construction, marketing & advertising, financial services, food & beverages, information technology & services, and non-profit sectors, among others.

“Wisconsin’s Titan 100 are redefining business with vision and purpose, setting new standards for growth, innovation, and impact. These trailblazing leaders inspire transformation across industries, uplift communities, and drive meaningful change. We proudly celebrate their legacy of excellence and unwavering commitment to shaping a brighter future for all,” says Jaime Zawmon, President of Titan CEO.

Jessica Diederich, CEO of Greater Green Bay Habitat for Humanity, has been named a 2026 Wisconsin Titan 100, honoring the state’s most impactful leaders in business and community innovation. Since stepping into her role, Jessica has united city leaders, funders, volunteers, and staff around a shared vision – positioning Habitat for Humanity as a catalyst for long-term change in affordable homeownership, housing and community development. Diederich’s leadership has driven record growth in Greater Green Bay Habitat for Humanity’s reach and impact, fueled by a deep belief in building something better; whether that’s a home, a relationship, or a stronger, more connected community.

“I am deeply humbled by this recognition and grateful for the opportunity it brings to amplify the work being done in the nonprofit and affordable housing sectors,” said Diederich. “At my core, I lead with my heart and build with purpose, bringing openness, grit, and a commitment to lifting others up. The Titan 100 platform is a chance to give voice to the tireless efforts of Habitat for Humanity throughout all of Wisconsin and to continue pushing beyond the bounds of our tightknit Greater Green Bay community. Leadership, to me, is about service and empowering others, sparking possibility, and driving meaningful, lasting change.”

Jessica Diederich will be honored at the Titan 100 awards celebration on January 29th, 2026, will be held at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, WI. This elegant, cocktail-style awards event will unite 100 Titans of Industry for an unforgettable evening of celebration, camaraderie, and networking—an evening unlike anything that exists in the Wisconsin business community.

“On behalf of everyone at Associated Bank, we congratulate all the Titan 100 winners. It’s an honor to recognize this exceptional group of Wisconsin leaders whose vision and impact strengthen our communities. Your accomplishments have been distinctive, and your acknowledgment as a Titan is truly deserved” says Jayne Hladio, 2025 Wisconsin Titan 100 Hall of Fame honoree and President at Associated Bank.

CEO of OSMS, Sandy Fragale, a 2026 Wisconsin Titan 100 Honoree

Titan CEO, headline sponsors Associated Bank and Wipfli LLP, and Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Specialists (OSMS) are pleased to announce Sandy Fragale, CEO of OSMS, as a 2026 Wisconsin Titan 100 Honoree.

The Titan 100 program recognizes Wisconsin’s Top 100 CEOs & C-level executives. They are the area’s most accomplished business leaders in their industry using criteria that include demonstrating exceptional leadership, vision, and passion.

This year’s Titan 100 embody true diversity of Wisconsin’s business landscape. Representing construction, manufacturing, marketing & advertising, insurance, hospital & health care, higher education, information technology & services, and non-profit sectors, among others. Collectively, the 2026 Wisconsin Titan 100 and their companies employ over 64,000 individuals and generate over $14 billion in annual revenues.

Sandy credits her success to the belief that the culture in any organization is what will make it successful. She believes that helping foster a positive culture at OSMS is the single most important thing she does. Under her leadership for the past 20+ years, OSMS has grown from 16 employees and five physicians with one clinic in Green Bay, WI, to over 400 team members and 41 physicians and clinics in Green Bay, Neenah, Oshkosh, and Marinette.

Sandy also believes in giving back; She’s been part of numerous boards and organizations. In the past, Sandy was on the YWCA board and The Arthritis Foundation board. Currently, Sandy is on the YMCA Fox Cities and Northeast Wisconsin Big Brothers Big Sisters boards. For nearly 16 years, Sandy was a Big Sister with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Green Bay.

“Titan 100’s demonstrate exceptional passion and influence in their field. My passion, and the driving force of OSMS, is to positively influence the state of healthcare and provide our community members across Northeast Wisconsin with high-quality, affordable healthcare. I am truly honored to be recognized as a 2026 Titan 100, where I have the opportunity to share how I have been translating my visions into meaningful outcomes over the past 20 years,” describes Sandy Fragale.

This year’s honorees will be published in a limited-edition Titan 100 book and profiled exclusively online. They will be honored at the annual awards ceremony on January 29th, 2026, and will be given the opportunity to interact and connect multiple times throughout the year with their fellow Titans.

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About Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Specialists

Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Specialists (OSMS) is a physician-owned orthopedic, sports medicine, rheumatology, and pain management practice with clinics in Green Bay, Marinette, Neenah, and Oshkosh, serving northeast Wisconsin and Upper Michigan. Services at OSMS include hip, knee, and shoulder care; hand and wrist care; foot and ankle care; sports medicine; work-related injuries; fracture care; spine care; pain management care; and rheumatologic care. Recognized as the best orthopedic/sports medicine clinic in the Green Bay Area, OSMS has one of America’s Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers for three consecutive years in a row by Newsweek, along with one of the Best Ambulatory Surgery Centers for Orthopedics in the United States 2024-2025 by U.S. News & World Report and also offers MRI, lab services, infusion therapy and bone density screening. Visit osmsgb.com for more information.

Lara Fritts to Lead the Greater Green Bay Chamber as Next President & CEO

Lara Fritts, CEcD, FM has been named the next President & CEO of the Greater Green Bay Chamber, effective December 1, 2025. The Chamber’s search committee unanimously selected Fritts to lead the organization, marking the end of a six-month long nationwide search process.

Fritts is the second woman to serve as President & CEO of the Greater Green Bay Chamber following Laurie Radke who stepped down from the role at the end of August after a 14-year tenure.

“I am proud to welcome Lara Fritts as the next President & CEO of the Greater Green Bay Chamber,” said Ryan Krumrie, Greater Green Bay Chamber Board Chairman. “Her roots in this community give her a deep understanding of the people and values that make our region strong while her extensive experience leading organizations and communities across the country throughout her career provide her with a national perspective that uniquely positions her to guide the Chamber into its next chapter.”

Fritts currently serves as Director of the Frederick County Division of Economic Opportunity in Frederick, Maryland. Under her leadership, the Division launched its first listening tour to identify challenges and opportunities facing the trades industry, resulting in a strategic plan to enhance workforce in the trades. She also led process improvements for business retention, expansion and small business services, increasing the project pipeline within key industry sectors resulting in over $1 billion of investment to the County.

She started her career leading community development programs across Wisconsin, including being the first leader of On Broadway, Inc. in Green Bay. She has a proven track record of success holding leadership roles in Maryland, Virginia, Utah and Washington, D.C.

“The Green Bay area is a community with extraordinary opportunity, strength, and momentum, and I am honored to be selected to help lead the region’s next chapter of business and economic growth.” said Fritts. “Throughout my career, I’ve focused on building diverse and dynamic economies, forging strong partnerships, and creating pathways to prosperity for everyone. I’m excited to return home to partner with our public and private partners as well as the exceptional team at the Greater Green Bay Chamber to champion bold initiatives, strengthen our business community, and drive growth that delivers lasting value across the region.”

Fritts holds a Bachelor of Science in Regional Analysis – Community and Economic Development from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay and a Master of Science in Urban Studies – Economic Development from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. She also earned the IEDC/ACCE Certificate in Workforce Development Fundamentals.

Her professional achievements include being awarded the Consultant Connect’s Top 50 Economic Developers, named a Fellow Member of the International Economic Development Council and recognized on the Virginia 500 Power List and 100 People to Meet by Virginia Business Magazine.

Port of Green Bay September Tonnage

In September, 162,050 tons of cargo were moved through the Port of Green Bay, with limestone leading the commodities with the largest tonnage for the month. Overall tonnage dipped some from the August tonnage total but continued to remain solid.

“There will always be ebbs and flows month-to-month, but we’re pleased with the steady increase in tonnage totals as the season advances,” said Dean Haen, Port of Green Bay director. “Key commodities are moving at a healthy pace, and if current trends hold, we anticipate closing the season on par with recent years.”

Seven key commodities moved through the Port of Green Bay in September, including limestone (61,532 tons), cement (38,802 tons), petroleum products (24,329 tons), salt (16,437 tons), coal (16,347 tons) and armourstone (4,603 tons). 19 vessels visited the Port in September, bringing the year-to-date total to 96.

“Keeping raw materials and goods moving through our region is critical, and the Port of Green Bay remains essential to Northeastern Wisconsin’s economic vitality,” explained Haen. “The port’s connection to the world economy not only supports business growth, but also boosts employment opportunities and reinforces our economic foundation.”

To learn more about recent and historical tonnage information for the Port of Green Bay, visit https://www.portofgreenbay.com/cargo-quantities-shipped.

Bank of Luxemburg Announces Whitney Banker as Assistant VP of Cash Management

Bank of Luxemburg is excited to announce that Whitney Banker has joined the bank as Assistant Vice President of Cash Management.

Whitney graduated from St. Norbert College in 2019 with a bachelor of business administration, majoring in international business and Spanish. She previously worked with a regional bank in foreign exchange. From there, Whitney went on to work for a financial technology firm in Seattle, graduating from the Pacific Coast Banking School in 2024.

“I really missed being part of a community bank,” Whitney says. “They make such a difference in the communities that I love, supporting the local businesses and the things that make small towns special. I grew up around here, and that’s why I was excited to join Bank of Luxemburg.”

In her new role, Whitney is working with commercial clients, updating and expanding on some of the bank’s current product offerings for the commercial sector.

“Whitney’s strong financial background, education and connections to the community make her an ideal fit for the bank,” said Darren Voigt, President/CEO at Bank of Luxemburg. “We are thrilled that Whitney’s skills and expertise will help us enhance the products we bring to our commercial customers.”

Whitney, a Bonduel native who now lives in Allouez, says she’s excited for the chance to share the Bank of Luxemburg experience with area businesses. “I think the bank has a very unique culture, and the opportunity to show our area communities what the bank has to offer is really cool and exciting,” Whitney says.

About Luxemburg Bancshares, Inc. & Bank of Luxemburg:

Luxemburg Bancshares, Inc. and Bank of Luxemburg have offices in Luxemburg, Green Bay, Kewaunee, Dyckesville, Casco, Algoma, Sturgeon Bay, Fish Creek and Howard. For more information, visit bankofluxemburg.com. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

GRB’s Airport PUblic Safety Team Stands ready 24/7 to Respond to Emergencies

While Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB) provides the ease of a local airport, offering quick check-ins and personalized service, it also delivers top-tier safety to every traveler, thanks in large part to its very own Airport Public Safety Department, which GRB is recognizing during this Fire Prevention Month.

“Safety is at the core of everything we do at GRB,” said Airport Director Marty Piette, A.A.E. “From fire prevention and emergency response to ensuring zero tolerance for issues like human trafficking, we take seriously our responsibility to protect every passenger, employee and community member who passes through the airport.”

Throughout the month of October, GRB is sharing safety tips with travelers to promote awareness and preparedness:

Always know the location of exits and emergency information in the terminal
Follow all TSA and airline instructions for prohibited items
Report suspicious activity to airport staff immediately
Stay alert when charging devices, handling luggage or navigating crowded areas

“Our firefighters and emergency staff train year-round and are ready to respond 24/7,” said Chet Bruette, chief of the Airport Public Safety Department at GRB. “We take pride in being highly trained, well-equipped and always focused on protecting lives and property at the airport.”

GRB staff work to meet or exceed national standards by conducting live drills, by collaborating with federal agencies on security initiatives and by leading training to ensure every department, from firefighting to operations, is prepared.

As passengers prepare for the busy holiday travel season, GRB reminds everyone that safety is a shared responsibility and encourages the community to remain alert, aware and proactive.

“The airport continues to build on its strong foundation of training and readiness,” said Brown County Executive Troy Streckenbach. “Their ongoing investment not only ensures GRB is one of the safest airports for travelers but also makes it one of the easiest to use, supporting our county’s reputation as a welcoming and well-prepared community.”

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About Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport

Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB) is the third largest airport in the state, serving Northeast Wisconsin and portions of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Business and leisure flights are offered by American, Delta, Frontier, and United Airlines, and two fixed base operators (FBOs), JetAir Group and Avflight. As the Gateway to Lambeau Field, GRB is the official airport of the Green Bay Packers.

Additionally, GRB is one of only two commercial airports in Wisconsin designated as a Landing Rights Airport by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection for international flight arrivals.

Shoppers Cite DIY Options and Sustinability Efforts as Top Reasons to Shop GOodwill NCW

Early Halloween shopping continues to be a trend and prices are top of mind for consumers. However, shoppers do not have to let spending numbers frighten away their fun as buying secondhand at all Goodwill North Central Wisconsin (NCW) stores can keep them on budget.

According to the National Retail Federation’s (NRF) annual survey conducted by Prosper Insights & Analytics, 49% of those surveyed began their shopping in September. The study estimates consumer spending on Halloween-related items to reach $13.1 billion this year. The figure is up from $11.6 billion last year and exceeds the previous $12.2 billion record set in 2023.

Goodwill Industries International’s annual survey found that Eco-conscious shopping continues to be an important trend. Three in four adults (76%) say that Goodwill’s focus on sustainability impacts their decision to shop at Goodwill stores. This trend is particularly strong among Gen Z, with 84% of young adults influenced by the commitment to sustainability shown by Goodwill.

“Halloween is our busiest season, and the Halloween secondhand trend continues to be a popular choice, particularly among DIY costume shoppers,” said Chris Talton, Vice President of Donated Goods Retail Operations at Goodwill NCW. “Shopping at Goodwill NCW stores lets individuals create personalized, affordable and eco-friendly costumes while supporting our programs for those who have a goal of learning new job skills”

Shoppers at Goodwill NCW retail store locations in north central Wisconsin can find secondhand costumes that are ready to wear or create their own social media ready unique look. According to the NRF study, 51% of Americans plan to dress in costume this year. Top costumes for kids, (in order of popularity), include Spiderman, their favorite princess, and a witch. Top costumes for adults include a witch, vampire, cat and Batman.

Shoppers at Goodwill NCW not only find one-of-a-kind looks, but they can also feel good about their Halloween purchases. Goodwill NCW store sales support the nonprofit’s mission of Elevating People by Eliminating Barriers to Employment. On average, 90 cents of every dollar in store sales is reinvested back into local communities to provide pathways that lead to sustained employment and improved financial stability.

For more fun Halloween ideas, including hair and makeup tutorials, one-of-a-kind costumes and festive decorations, visit Halloween at Goodwill NCW | Goodwill NCW

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About Goodwill North Central Wisconsin (Goodwill NCW)

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 goodwillncw.org

Law Firm of Conway, Olejniczak & Jerry, S.C. Attorneys Earn Best Lawyers Designation

Multiple attorneys from Law Firm of Conway, Olejniczak & Jerry, S.C. have earned designation on the exclusive Best Lawyers annual list.

Those who made the list include Laura Beck, (Family Law), George Burnett (Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs), Robert Gagan (Municipal Law), Tori Kluess (Trusts and Estates), Jodi Labs (Environmental Law) and Fred Schmidt (Trusts and Estates).

The 32nd edition of The Best Lawyers in America recognizes only the top 5% of U.S. attorneys for 2026. The 6th edition of Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America recognizes about 2% of early early-career lawyers. Nominations are reviewed via confidential evaluations by current lawyers in the same practice area and region.

Bob Gagan
Fred Schmidt
George Burnett
Jodi Labs
Laura Beck
Tori Kluess

About Best Lawyers:

Best Lawyers provides trusted, peer-reviewed recognition of top legal professionals and helps clients find credible, experienced counsel with confidence. Best Lawyers publishes both The Best Lawyers in America and Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America, recognizing outstanding achievements of legal professionals who demonstrate unparalleled expertise and dedication in their fields. For more information, visit bestlawyers.com.

About Law Firm of Conway, Olejniczak & Jerry, S.C.:

Since 1976, Law Firm of Conway, Olejniczak & Jerry, S.C. has helped clients solve various legal challenges using a proactive and involved approach. Our reputation for the highest quality standards has earned us the trust and confidence of businesses and individuals throughout Northeast Wisconsin for over four decades. To learn more, visit lcojlaw.com.

Middle Schoolers Take Interest in Media and Communications

Middle school students from Menominee Tribal School were supported in their media interests by taking a trip to local media production companies this summer. Twelve students embarked on a day full of fun and learning at FOX 11 News studio, LiveX Media Production Company and Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC)’s Media Center.

Their interest in media began back in June at “Revitalize Neopit” – an event hosted by the Wolf River Development Company and the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin to highlight the positive economic development projects happening within the Neopit community. In preparation for the event, members of the Menominee Tribal Communications Department taught students skills for interviewing, video and audio equipment usage, formulating a well-rounded story, highlighting key points, written communication skills and gaining audience interest. At Revitalize Neopit, students conducted and recorded several interviews with attendees about planning and economic development. With an overwhelming interest from students, a decision was made to coordinate a media field trip so they could learn more.

The itinerary from the day included:

WLUK Fox 11 News Station
- Tour of the newsroom
- Meet & Greet with the anchors
- Q&A with journalists about what makes a good story
- Watched Good Day Wisconsin morning show live
LiveX Media Production Company
- Talk about live streaming, programming production, live camera switching, video editing, graphics and playback.
NWTC Media Center
- Tour of classrooms and technical spaces used for graphic design, photography, audio recording and marketing.

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Menominee Tribal School is a K-8 Tribally-controlled grant school owned by the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin (MITW). Its mission is to provide the best educational experience that addresses students’ individual needs by integrating Menominee language and culture to promote success. Overseen by the Bureau of Indian Education, the Menominee Tribal School receives its major funding from the federal government and is located in Neopit, Wis.

Category: Member News