Member News Archives | Page 3 of 23 | Greater Green Bay Chamber

The Lawton Standard Co. Named a Finalist for Wisconsin Manufacturer of the YEar

For the second year in a row, The Lawton Standard Co. is proud to announce the company has been named a finalist for the Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year (MOTY) award. Lawton has been named a finalist for both the Grand Award-Large Group and the Spotlight Award-Community Impact. The annual WI MOTY competition is hosted by the Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce, Baker Tilly and Michael Best.

The Manufacturer of the Year award recognizes companies that are dedicated to quality careers, good business practices, financial growth, innovative processes and reinvestment into the community. Here in Wisconsin, the manufacturing industry contributes roughly $70 billion each year to the state’s economy.

Lawton Standard is a finalist for the Grand Award in the large business group. The multi-metal, multi-site, multi-capability casting-centric business is like no other. Innovation is key to staying ahead in the foundry industry and Lawton is committed to finding better, more efficient ways to provide high-quality iron and steel castings to our customers. It is a one-stop shop for people looking for iron and steel castings and has added benefits for customers like expert engineering, solidification software, in-house pattern shops, in-house machine shops and quality assurance.

Lawton was also named a finalist for MOTY’s Spotlight Award focused on community impact. Lawton De Pere is the only foundry in Wisconsin to be Green Tier 2 certified by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Lawton began its Green Tier journey in 2013 after CEO Alex Lawton started the “Beyond Compliance” initiative. In 2021, Lawton earned Green Tier 2 status and recently renewed that status in 2025. The program helped Lawton take steps to improve sustainability and environmental impact. The key improvements include diverting waste streams from the landfill, raising environmental awareness through employee training and taking part in programs like “Adopt-A-Highway” and e-recycling events. Since 2022, Lawton De Pere has diverted close to 10,000 tons of spent foundry sand from the landfill. That sand is used in beneficial reuse programs like base layers for roads and parking lots, as well as in cement, concrete, bricks, roofing materials and much more.

The 37th annual Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year awards will take place Thursday, February 19th at the Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee. An independent panel of judges, made up of trusted leaders from manufacturing, education and business, review each application. The judging panel is fully independent of the award program sponsors, ensuring a fair process.

Lawton Standard is not alone in Northeast Wisconsin, as 9 manufacturers from Northeast Wisconsin have been selected as finalists for awards. We wish those other manufacturers good luck at the upcoming awards banquet and look forward to catching up with many of them at the event.

Check out the full list of finalists for this year’s Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year awards: https://www.wimoty.com/winners-nominees/2025-finalists/. You can learn more about the important work WMC is doing in Wisconsin: https://www.wmc.org/.

Find out more about Lawton Standard and it’s wide range of services in the iron and steel casting industry: https://lawtonstandard.com/.

During Gov. Evers Visit, Goodwill North Central Wisconsin Announces Workforce Training Program, Career EXCELerate will expand

During a visit with Wisconsin state Governor Tony Evers, Wisconsin Representative Lee Snodgrass, and City of Menasha Mayor Austin Hammond, Goodwill North Central Wisconsin (NCW) announced the continuation and expansion of their newest innovative workforce development program, Career EXCELerate Wisconsin. The program provides 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. Those who complete the program receive certifications at no cost in fields within health services, manufacturing, retail, and truck driving.

Career EXCELerate Wisconsin was launched in summer 2022 thanks to a Workforce Innovation Grant from the State of Wisconsin.

“When we launched our Workforce Innovation Grant Program, we set out to support projects that get at the heart of addressing regional workforce needs, and that is exactly what Goodwill NCW and its program partners are doing here with Career EXCELerate,” said Gov. Evers. “Thanks to this program’s innovative offerings, nearly 400 students have gotten their credentialing in some of our state’s most in-demand fields, all free of cost, and it was tremendous meeting with leadership to talk about this program’s exciting future.”

The program was originally the idea of three partners, Goodwill NCW, Fox Valley Technical College, and Rawhide Youth Services. The spirit of the original partnership will live on thanks to Goodwill NCW’s commitment to invest in its future. Goodwill NCW announced that it would sustain funding for the program moving forward and expand partnerships and access in all the counties it serves by offering in-person, online, hybrid options.

“We are incredibly grateful to the state for believing in our idea,” said Chris Hess, President and CEO at Goodwill NCW. “The program has proven to be successful with outcomes that exceeded our expectations and we are excited about the next chapter that will bring further impact to our state’s workforce.”

Those who have completed the program and attained employment are benefiting from improved financial stability, as they have seen an average increase of approximately $11.36 per hour in wages from intake to their current job (data as of December 15, 2025).

Enrollment for the program is open at CareerEXCELerateWI.org.

About Goodwill North Central Wisconsin (Goodwill NCW)

Goodwill NCWis a nonprofit organization with a mission of Elevating People by Eliminating Barriers to Employment. We provide pathways to those underserved, underrepresented or 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

HSHS St. Vincent Children’s HOspital Installs “Kitten Scanner”

On Dec. 19, 2025, HSHS St. Vincent Children’s Hospital installed a “Kitten Scanner,” a child-sized toy scanner that allows pediatric patients to “scan” stuffed animals and understand the process of their upcoming medical scan.

Ashley Thompson, a Child Life Supervisor at HSHS St. Vincent Children’s, says that medical imaging like MRIs and CTs can feel loud and intimidating for kids, making it difficult for them stay still long enough to capture the scan.

“Since kids learn best through play, pretending to scan a favorite stuffed animal helps make CTs and MRIs feel less scary,” says Thompson. “When they see their ‘special animal’ go first, the machines become more familiar and less intimidating.”

Children can choose between three toy animals to send through the scanner: Ollie the Elephant, Chris the Alligator or Doris the Chicken. The Kitten Scanner is also designed to mimic the sights and sounds of the real scanner a patient will experience— bright lights, whirring noises and even a screen showing the pretend “scans” from the stuffed animal.

As a nonprofit health care provider, HSHS St. Vincent Children’s Hospital relies on contributions from the community to enhance the patient experience and introduce new technologies and spaces. This Kitten Scanner was made possible thanks to a donation from The Ariens Family Foundation, which fully covered the costs of the scanner and its installation.

“Donor support allows us to provide specialized tools and resources that insurance doesn’t cover but are essential to caring for children, helping us deliver the safest, most advanced care,” said Amy Bardon, Nursing Director at HSHS St. Vincent Children’s Hospital. “To our donors: Your generosity is creating a meaningful impact for children and families.”

Amy and Ashley are excited to see all the ways this technology will help pediatric patients, reduce kids’ anxiety around scans, and reduce the need to sedate children who need medical imaging.

“When children understand what to expect, scans are more successful. Families feel more at ease, and the overall hospital experience becomes more positive,” says Thompson. “We show them we understand their fears, help them feel heard, and turn the experience into something that is predictable and makes them feel safe.”

To learn more about HSHS St. Vincent’s Children’s Hospital, please visit: www.stvincentchildrenshospital.org

To learn more about giving to HSHS St. Vincent Children’s Hospital, please visit the HSHS St. Vincent/St. Mary’s Foundation at: https://www.hshs.org/st-marys-green-bay/giving-volunteering/giving

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About HSHS St. Vincent Children’s Hospital

Located inside the walls of HSHS St. Vincent Hospital in Green Bay, Wis., HSHS St. Vincent Children’s Hospital is Northeast Wisconsin’s first and only children’s hospital. With every detail tailored to kids, HSHS St. Vincent Children’s Hospital delivers exceptional health care to children while making them feel comfortable and supported. As a partner of Prevea Health, it has direct access to dedicated pediatricians and a wide variety of specialty care physicians. HSHS St. Vincent Children’s Hospital is also a member of the Children’s Hospital Association, the voice for more than 220 children’s hospitals nationwide. For more information about HSHS St. Vincent Children’s Hospital, visit www.stvincentchildrenshospital.org.

Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport Invites Public to Send Off Packers Ahead of Playoff Game Against Chicago Bears

Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB) invites the public to come together on Friday, January 9 to cheer on the Green Bay Packers as the team departs for their playoff game against the Chicago Bears.

Community members are encouraged to arrive before 12:30 p.m. to ensure access inside the terminal. Guests who arrive later may be required to stand outside the front entrance doors due to space and operational needs. Attendees are encouraged to drop off individuals with accessibility needs at the terminal entrance before parking.

To accommodate attendees, free parking will be available in the remote lot, which will be clearly marked with signage. Once inside the terminal, fans will find a sign-making station where they can create posters and messages to help send the team off in true Green Bay fashion.

Airport officials remind attendees that while enthusiasm is encouraged, players, coaches, and staff should not be harassed. This event is intended to be a positive, respectful show of community pride and support.

“Few things unite Wisconsin the way the Green Bay Packers do,” said Marty Piette, Airport Director of Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport. “The team represents hard work, tradition, and community—values that resonate across our entire state. We’re proud to open our doors and give fans the opportunity to show their support as the Packers head out to represent Wisconsin on a national stage.”

Brown County Executive Troy Streckenbach emphasized the broader community significance of the event. “The airport truly is the front door to our community,” Streckenbach said. “Moments like this invite everyone—families, fans, visitors—to be part of the team. It’s a reminder that when the Packers travel, they carry all of us with them.”

Fans are encouraged to dress warmly if they arrive late, they may need to queue up under the canopy outside the airport, wear green and gold, and arrive early to be part of this memorable send-off. Event details and updates will be shared through Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport’s official social media channels.

For more information, visit www.flygrb.com

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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.

CoVantage Unveils Finanical Strategy Simulation to Prepare High School Students for Real-World Budgeting

CoVantage Credit Union has launched an innovative financial education program designed to help high school students build practical money management skills. The new offering, Financial Strategy Simulation, is part of the Quest: A Credit Union Experience series created by CoVantage Credit Union and introduces a gamified approach to creating a balanced spending plan.

The simulation challenges high school juniors and seniors to navigate real-world financial scenarios in a vendor fair setting. Students develop a strategy to manage household wants and needs, then test their plan against unexpected challenges to determine whether they “survive” or “thrive.” The experience incorporates modern budgeting obstacles such as limited inventory, daycare waiting lists, and secondary employment opportunities.

Lindsey Mueller, Director of Advocacy and Financial Education at CoVantage Credit Union, explained the program’s evolution, “After hosting 35 successful reality fair events since 2015, we knew it was time for a change. The Financial Strategy Simulation reimagines our previous fair by focusing on financial wellness through planning while closely mirroring current consumer behaviors and budgeting challenges. It’s the students versus the game, with multiple financial curveballs along the way. Our team is excited to bring this offering to high schools in our communities.”

The program has been successfully piloted at Menasha High School in Menasha, Wisconsin, and Forest Park High School in Crystal Falls, Michigan. Schools interested in learning more or determining eligibility are encouraged to contact their local CoVantage Credit Union office.

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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 182,000 member-owners. Founded in 1953, the financial cooperative serves members in all 50 states with locations in Wisconsin, Michigan, and Illinois.

Insight on Business Launches Local COver Design COntest for ‘Insights on Philanthropy’

Insight on Philanthropy, the leading business publication dedicated to connecting nonprofits and business resources, today announced a Call for Submissions for a local artist or designer to create the cover art for its annual publication, Insight on Philanthropy.

The initiative seeks to spotlight local creative talent in presenting a powerful visual representation of charitable giving and collaboration in Northeast Wisconsin.

Insight on Philanthropy is a publication that showcases stories of compassion, dedication and impact, serving as the premier platform to amplify the essential missions of nonprofits and the crucial support provided by area businesses.

A Community-Driven Cover

“Our region has a story of generosity that words alone can’t always capture,” said Angela O’Kray, publisher. “This initiative is about more than just a cover; it’s about giving local artists a canvas to translate the heart of our community into something visual. Insight on Philanthropy will be a reflection of what’s possible when we all work together to lift our community up.”

Designers are invited to develop a piece that brings to life themes of partnership, impact, and local identity. The selected design will appear on the cover of the 2027 Insight on Philanthropy issue, reaching leaders across the region’s business and philanthropic communities.

Recognition for the Selected Designer Includes:

1. A feature in the August issue of Insight showcasing your work, along with a bio highlighting your artistic journey.

2. Your artwork will be prominently featured on the cover of our Insight on Philanthropy 2027 edition.

3. You will receive 5 copies of the 2027 issue to share or display.

Submission Details:

The contest is open to all artists and designers who live or work in the Northeast Wisconsin area. Submissions must be high-resolution digital files and include a brief statement explaining the design concept.

Deadline for Submissions: May 31st, 2026

Full submission guidelines and details are available at https://www.insightonbusiness.com/insightonphilanthropy/artistsubmissions/

Visit https://www.insightonbusiness.com/insightonphilanthropy to learn more about Insight on Philanthropy, view the online directory and/or to view the 2026 Insight on Philanthropy edition.

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About Insight on Business:

Insight is the trusted cornerstone for business knowledge and connections in Northeast Wisconsin. We connect and inform the region’s diverse leaders through high-quality content, recognition of business success, and events that foster meaningful relationships. Serving top executives and business owners, we deliver the insight and connections that drive smart decision-making and regional prosperity. www.insightonbusiness.com.

Hospital SIsters Health System WElcomes Laurie Radke, MBA, as HSHS Wisconsin Market Foundation Director

Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS) is pleased to welcome Laurie Radke, MBA, as Foundation Director for the HSHS Wisconsin Market.

Laurie is a distinguished leader and familiar face in the Northeast Wisconsin community, having served as President and CEO of the Greater Green Bay Chamber for 14 years; she announced her departure from that role in August 2025 to explore new opportunities. Through her time with the Chamber and active community involvement, Laurie has cultivated strong partnerships and community engagement, driven economic growth, and established programs to support the creation of jobs, capital investments, business expansion and community nonprofits.

“Having spent much of my career serving the community, I was drawn to HSHS because its mission aligns closely with my values,” said Laurie. “Their work is Christ-centered, compassionate and deeply rooted in the community.”

“We are thrilled to welcome Laurie to HSHS,” said Bob Erickson, President and CEO, HSHS Wisconsin Market. “A leader of her caliber will make a significant impact on our hospitals and mission to provide health, healing and hope to all who come through our doors. She cares deeply for our communities, and her reputation, relationships and track record of success are second-to-none.”

As a nonprofit health care provider, HSHS relies on generous contributions from its communities to help carry forth the mission of its founding Sisters to provide health, healing and hope to all; contributions which lead to enhanced patient experience, new technologies and spaces, and everything in between.

As Foundation Director, Laurie will oversee the philanthropic initiatives of all HSHS hospitals across its Wisconsin Market including HSHS St. Vincent Hospital, HSHS St. Vincent Children’s Hospital and HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital Medical Center in Green Bay; HSHS St. Nicholas Hospital in Sheboygan; and HSHS St. Clare Memorial Hospital in Oconto Falls.

“Philanthropy is the heart of this mission,” says Laurie. “Through the generosity of donors, HSHS cares for the whole person and extends healing, dignity and hope to individuals and families across the communities they are entrusted to serve.”

Laurie holds a Master of Science in Business Administration from Lakeland College in Plymouth, a Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, and an Associate of Arts from the University of Wisconsin, Manitowoc. She is from Manitowoc, resides in Oconto Falls, and continues to be an actively engaged community member, serving on the Green Bay Packers Board of Directors and as a member of the HSHS St. Clare Memorial Hospital Quality Assurance Committee.

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About Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS)

Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS) is a nonprofit Catholic health care ministry founded in 1875. Dedicated to our Mission to reveal and embody Christ’s healing love for all people through high-quality Franciscan health care, HSHS clinicians provide exceptional care centered on the whole person. Based in Springfield, Illinois, HSHS employs nearly 11,000 colleagues who provide care in 13 acute-care, children’s and critical access hospitals and home health and hospice programs in Central and Southern Illinois and Eastern Wisconsin. HSHS is aligned with more than 1,000 primary and specialty physicians and advanced practitioners through its owned affiliates HSHS Medical Group and Prairie Cardiovascular and its partnership with Prevea Health. For more information about HSHS, visit hshs.org.

North Shore Bank Again Named to America’s Best Regional Bank List by Newsweek

North Shore Bank announced today it has been recognized as one of America’s Best Regional Banks 2026 by Newsweek. This marks the third consecutive year the bank earned this prestigious distinction, which recognizes companies that are committed to fueling local economies by supporting small businesses, financing community projects, and providing reliable access to everyday banking services.

“We’re truly honored to be recognized once again this year,” says President and CEO Jay McKenna. “For more than a century, relationships have been at the heart of everything we do—with our customers, businesses, community, and employees. This distinction underscores our employees’ ongoing dedication to exceptional service and highlights the strength of our commitment.”

More than 2,400 banks were selected for an in-depth evaluation in a survey of U.S. customers and the results were evaluated across 12 categories that included Customer Service, Perks and Benefits, and Fees and Interest Rates. The study awarded the best 500 regional banks in the United States, including 14 regional banks with locations in Wisconsin.

Newsweek, along with market data research firm Plant-A Insights Group, conducted an independent study to analyze key performance indicators to determine the top regional banks. The methodology utilizes the Texas Ratio (a measure of a bank’s credit quality) as well as reviewed profitability and net loans and leases, press coverage over the past two years, and a large-scale independent customer survey of more than 71,000 U.S. citizens. The survey data was complemented by an analysis of 1.9 million social media reviews and 129 million mobile app reviews.

“More than financial service providers, regional banks are community partners, showing up in neighborhoods, participating in local initiatives, and helping strengthen the connections that bind their customers together,” said Jennifer H. Cunningham, editor-in-chief for Newsweek.

In addition to North Shore Bank having been named as one of America’s Best Regional Banks in 2024, 2025, and 2026, the bank has previously been recognized by Newsweek having been named a 2022 Best Small Bank in Wisconsin.

Founded in 1923 and headquartered in Brookfield, Wisconsin, North Shore Bank is a mutual savings bank with assets of over $2.5 billion and 42 offices throughout eastern Wisconsin and northern Illinois. Wisconsin locations are in metro Milwaukee, Germantown, Ozaukee County, Racine, Kenosha, Appleton, Menasha, Green Bay and surrounding areas, Burlington, Union Grove, Muskego, and Door County. Locate a North Shore Bank office. You can also connect with the bank on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.

BayCare Clinic Appoints Dr. Riley Meyer as Chief Medical Officer

BayCare Clinic is proud to announce the appointment of Riley Meyer, DO, as its new Chief Medical Officer (CMO). Dr. Meyer brings more than a decade of clinical leadership, medical education, and patient-centered care to his new role.

Dr. Meyer has served as a hospitalist at Aurora BayCare Medical Center since 2015, where he previously held the position of Hospitalist Medical Director and Chief of Staff Elect. His leadership has been instrumental in advancing quality improvement initiatives, physician wellness programs, and medical education across the organization.

“Dr. Meyer is a respected clinician and a visionary leader,” said Dr. Ashwani Bhatia, CEO of BayCare Clinic. “His commitment to excellence, collaboration, and innovation makes him the ideal choice to guide our clinical strategy and support our mission of delivering exceptional care to the patients and communities we serve.”

A graduate of Nova Southeastern University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dr. Meyer completed his Internal Medicine residency at Aurora Sinai and St. Luke’s Medical Centers in Milwaukee. He also holds a Bachelor of Science in Zoology from the University of Wisconsin–Madison.

Dr. Meyer is board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine and has received multiple honors, including the Wisconsin Medical Alumni Association Teaching Award and the Warren J. Conen Humanitarian Award. He serves as an adjunct professor at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health.

In his new role as CMO, Dr. Meyer will provide strategic leadership of medical operations, ensuring clinical excellence and fostering strong physician collaboration across BayCare Clinic.

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About BayCare Clinic

BayCare Clinic, baycareclinic.com, is the largest physician-owned specialty-care clinic in Northeast Wisconsin. It is based in Green Bay, Wisconsin. BayCare Clinic offers expertise

in more than 20 specialties, with more than 100 physicians serving in 16 area communities. BayCare Clinic is a joint partner in Aurora BayCare Medical Center, a 167-bed, full-service hospital.

Unified School District of De Pere Announces Redbird Community Classroom Sessions

Redbird Community Classroom is a unique opportunity for interested USDD community members to actively participate in in-person presentations and discussions designed to expand their knowledge of the District and issues facing public education. The program is especially beneficial for those seeking detailed understanding of:

School funding
District operations
USDD strategic priorities

About the Sessions

In February 2026, three sessions on School Finance are scheduled. Each session will include the same content, however you are welcome to attend more than one session.

Sessions on Career & Technical Education, and Mental Health In Our Schools are slated for May 2026, and October 2026 respectively.

The District’s goal is to expand Redbird Community Classroom to a multi-session series conducted over a full school year. The approximately 2-hour sessions will be facilitated by a subject matter expert from the District, along with USDD administrators and external resources as applicable.

Sample Agenda

Introductions
Presentation
Question/answer
Break/networking
Presentation wrap-up, roundtable discussion
Group feedback

Light refreshments will be served.

Click here to sign up.

Category: Member News