Member News Archives | Page 4 of 13 | Greater Green Bay Chamber

97 Years of Service to Green Bay Highlighted in New Concourse B Installation

Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB) announces a new history installation celebrating 100 years of Delta Air Lines and 97 years of service in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The display honors Delta’s long-standing legacy in aviation while showcasing its deep connection to Northeast Wisconsin travelers.

“This exhibit tells a story that is both historic and deeply personal to our region,” said Airport Director Marty Piette, A.A.E. “For nearly a century, Delta has provided reliable service to Green Bay travelers. Partnerships like this ensure that our community stays connected to the world and that GRB continues to thrive as Northeast Wisconsin’s airport of choice.”

Founded in 1924, Delta Air Lines has grown from a small crop-dusting operation into one of the world’s largest global carriers. Its history includes the acquisitions of key airlines such as Chicago and Southern Air Lines, Northeast Airlines, Republic Airways, and Northwest Airlines. Each merger expanded Delta’s network and strengthened its presence in communities like Green Bay.

“Celebrating 97 years in Green Bay and 100 years as a company is a milestone that reflects Delta’s commitment to the communities we serve,” said Delta Air Lines Green Bay Station Manager Sandra Samuelson. “Our employees here in Green Bay are proud to carry forward Delta’s legacy of service, hospitality and innovation while helping travelers connect with friends, family and opportunities across the globe.”

Delta’s story in Green Bay began in 1928, when the airline first served the area, establishing one of the longest continuous air service partnerships in Wisconsin. Today, Delta remains one of GRB’s cornerstone carriers, connecting Northeast Wisconsin to destinations across the United States and the world through its Minneapolis, Detroit and Atlanta hubs. The airline has supported tremendous growth to the NE Wisconsin region by adding extra flights during major events such as the 2025 NFL Draft and non-stop air service to Green Bay Packers away games.

This season, Delta builds on its commitment by introducing additional mainline service the day after Packers home games. The strategic addition significantly increases seat capacity, providing both local and visiting fans with greater flexibility and convenience when flying in and out of GRB.

Brown County Executive Troy Streckenbach highlighted the economic impact of Delta’s long-standing presence: “Airline partnerships like the one we’ve had with Delta are critical to our region’s economic vitality because reliable air service brings business investment, supports tourism and provides our residents with convenient access to national and international destinations,” said Streckenbach. “We’re proud to celebrate this important milestone alongside Delta and GRB.”

The new Concourse B installation features historic memorabilia of Delta’s growth during the past century. The display will be open to all ticketed passengers traveling through GRB.

For more information on GRB services visit www.flygrb.com.

Aspiro Welcomes Steve Liegl to Board of Directors

Aspiro is proud to announce the appointment of Steve Liegl, Director of Infrastructure and Operations at WEC Energy Group, to its Board of Directors.

Liegl brings over two decades of experience in IT infrastructure, operations, and strategic leadership. He currently oversees critical technology services at WEC Energy Group, one of the nation’s premier energy companies serving over 4.6 million customers across the Midwest. His career includes leadership roles at Peoples Gas, Wisconsin Public Service, Shopko Optical, and Verizon, as well as board service with the Utilities Technology Council.

“Steve’s vast experience, combined with his commitment to community service, makes him an exceptional addition to our board,” said Ryan Ruzziconi, President of Aspiro. “His leadership and insight will be invaluable as we continue to innovate and expand services for individuals with disabilities in Brown County.”

Steve joins other board members: Bridget Erwin, Julie Graceffa, Erin Martini, Jason McDonough, Thomas Miller, Josh Moon, Stephanie Moore, Linda Negratti, Israel Santiesteban-Barrientos, Patrick Schillinger, and Richard Zuehlke.

Life in Space Launches at Mulva Cultural Center on September 26

“Life in Space,” an immersive exhibition that explores how humans live and work in space, opens at Mulva Cultural Center on Friday, September 26.

An international traveling exhibition created in partnership with the European Space Agency (ESA), Italian Space Agency (ASI) and the support of the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, “Life in Space” offers visitors a first-hand look at the innovations and challenges of human spaceflight.

“Life in Space” opening this week at Mulva Cultural Center, displays a range of artifacts, including various space suits and a life-sized model of a Lunar Rover.

Life-size models of a Lunar Rover and Sputnik I, a moon rock recovered from an asteroid impact site, and a life-sized mock-up of an International Space Station Node are some of the artifacts in the exhibition. Along with artifacts, the exhibition features a Multi-Axis Trainer designed to simulate a tumble spin in space, F-18 Hornet flight simulators, a virtual reality experience aboard the International Space Station, and more.

“This exhibition brings the science and wonder of space travel down to Earth,” said Claudia Damiani, Director of Exhibits & Education at Mulva Cultural Center. “Exploring how humans live and work in space, we can see the magnitude of science, engineering and technology required to make it possible.”

Designed to engage audiences of all ages, “Life in Space” offers an interactive, inspiring look at life beyond our planet and the ingenuity that propels us there.

“Life in Space” is the final main hall exhibition of 2025 and will be on display from September 26 to January 5, 2026. It was produced by Herelæb and toured by World Touring Exhibition.

Mulva Cultural Center inspires intellectual curiosity through stunning exhibits, engaging films, unique programs and enticing culinary innovations all within one destination. To learn more about Mulva Cultural Center, see its calendar of events and purchase tickets, visit mulvacenter.org.

Brown County United Way Reinvests $150K in Community Schools Initiative

Brown County United Way announced today a reinvestment of $150,000 into the Community Schools Initiative in partnership with the Green Bay Area Public School District for the 2025–26 school year. As the anchor partner in this initiative, this marks the third year of investment from Brown County United Way, reinforcing its commitment to strengthening the Community School model in Green Bay.

This funding will directly support Howe Elementary Community School and Nicolet Elementary
Community School. Together, these schools serve more than 700 students from 4K through 5th grade.
Each school provides a neighborhood hub where families, school staff, and community partners collaborate to ensure students and their families have access to the academic, health, and social
supports they need to thrive.

Community Schools are guided by the values of equity and social justice and are designed to address
the unique needs of each school community. At Howe and Nicolet, this reinvestment will enhance:

Integration of student supports, including meal and health services
Student and family engagement opportunities
Efforts to improve student attendance

“At Brown County United Way, we believe that when schools and communities come together, children
and families are given the best chance to succeed,” said Robyn Davis, President and CEO of Brown
County United Way. “This reinvestment reflects our commitment to strengthening the Community
School model and ensuring that every student has access to the resources and relationships they need
to thrive.”

“We are so proud of the work we’ve been able to accomplish together through the Community Schools
strategy,” said Vicki Bayer, Superintendent of the Green Bay Area Public School District. “This
reinvestment is a testament to the strategy and the strong collaboration between two organizations
who unite to remove barriers so all families at Howe and Nicolet Elementary Community Schools can
thrive.”

The Community Schools Initiative officially launched in Green Bay in 2018 and continues to transform
how resources are integrated into the school environment. The model emphasizes:

Powerful student and family engagement
Expanded and enriched learning opportunities
Rigorous, community-connected classroom instruction
Integrated student supports
Collaborative leadership and shared voice
A culture of belonging, safety and care

Past investments in Community Schools have provided resources such as:

School-based Vision Program: Free annual eye exams and two pairs of glasses for qualifying students
School-based Mental Health Program: Free onsite mental health services during the school day
Free field trips: Every student attends two field trips per year at no cost, thanks to partnerships and donors
Family event programming: Regular family dinner nights provide opportunities for families to connect while enjoying a free meal
Out of School Time: Providing additional activities and clubs, such as karate or skateboarding, extending the school’s reach into out of school hours.

Brown County United Way’s continued investment demonstrates its dedication to removing barriers to
student success and fostering environments where children and families can thrive.

Register Now for Ethics in Action Honors Event

Foundations Health & Wholeness is thrilled to share the nominees for this year’s Ethics in Action Honors Event:

Selena Darrow (Rooted In Inc.) — Selena founded Rooted In to address food insecurity and health equity in Green Bay. Her leadership recently helped rescue over 6,600 pounds of surplus food during the NFL Draft, ensuring it nourished families in need.

Kasia Klaus (HER Alliance, formerly Awaken Wisconsin) — Kasia has built a survivor-centered response to sex trafficking in our community. Since 2022, her organization has provided housing, therapy, advocacy, and support to more than 190 women and girls.

These inspiring community leaders will be honored at the 18th Annual Ethics in Action Honors Event on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Made possible by Founding Sponsor The George Kress Foundation of Green Bay Packaging and Presenting Sponsor Jones Sign, this event celebrates community changemakers while raising funds to expand access to mental health care for individuals who are uninsured or underinsured.

Event Details:

Date: Thursday, October 23, 2025

Time: 7:30 AM

Location: Legends Club Room at Lambeau Field

This year’s keynote speaker is Tom Farley, national speaker and former president of The Chris Farley Foundation. With humor and heart, Tom shares powerful stories about substance abuse prevention and inspiring change, especially among young people.

Seats are limited, and this event fills up quickly—don’t miss out on an unforgettable event! Register for your seats today: https://secure.givelively.org/event/foundations-health-wholeness/2025-ethics-in-action-honors-event

Pilotsmith Flight Academy, A Leading Flight Training Program, Sees Rising Enrollment

Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB) welcomes the continued growth of Pilotsmith Flight Academy, a leading flight training program headquartered at GRB for 10 years.

Pilotsmith Flight Academy offers training programs ranging from private pilot certificates to advanced commercial and instrument ratings. The academy currently serves over 400 students each year traveling across the Midwest to participate in the program. Pilotsmith’s state-of-the-art curriculum, experienced instructors and modern training fleet make it one of the fastest-growing aviation schools in the Midwest.

“We’ve seen tremendous growth in both enrollment and interest in aviation careers during the past several years,” said Charlie Smith, CEO of Pilotsmith Flight Academy. “We chose GRB as our headquarters because it offers the perfect combination of controlled airspace, modern facilities and access to commercial operations—providing our students with real-world flying experience in a dynamic environment.”

The comprehensive training program is designed to take aspiring aviators from their first flight all the way to airline-ready status. Pilotsmith covers every stage of a pilot’s journey and proudly gives first hiring preference to qualified students who complete the full curriculum through the instrument instructor (CFI-I) level. With a strong emphasis on safety, Pilotsmith provides Cirrus training aircraft equipped with whole-airframe parachutes, in addition to traditional training aircraft.

“The presence of Pilotsmith Flight Academy at GRB is an important asset to the airport and the region,” said Marty Piette, A.A.E., Airport Director at GRB. “Their aircraft are in the air every day, providing invaluable training for the next generation of pilots while contributing to the overall activity and vitality of the airport.”

Pilotsmith has also recently announced a partnership with Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC) to offer free prep-classes for the private pilot written test. Classes begin October 30, 2025 and are available for students that are either enrolled in training at Pilotsmith, will enroll in training at Pilotsmith or decide not to do flight training.

“The influx of students from across the Midwest and the United States not only fuels economic growth in our region but also gives us the opportunity to encourage these students to base here once their training is complete,” said Brown County Executive Troy Streckenbach. “It’s a win for aviation, for GRB and for our community.”

Pilotsmith Flight Academy continues to expand its offerings to meet rising demand, preparing students for careers in commercial airlines, corporate aviation and other sectors—all while remaining rooted in Green Bay.

For more information about Pilotsmith Flight Academy, visit www.pilotsmith.com/.

Year Four Brings More Opportunities to Shop

The beloved Christkindlmarket on Broadway is returning for year four, now offering more opportunities to find those unique gifts and support local! This much-anticipated traditional German-style holiday street market features unique gifts, festive food, beverages, and programming.

This year’s market has added Thursdays to its schedule and is also offering extended hours on Saturday. Shoppers will enjoy 14 event dates, beginning Thursday, November 13 with the annual Tree Lighting ceremony. The markets will then take place each week, Thursdays from 4pm – 9pm, Fridays 4pm – 9pm and Saturdays 11am – 5pm through December 20, excluding Thanksgiving Day.

“This market has become a seasonal destination for many, and we’re excited to offer locals and visitors more opportunities to shop,” said Brian Johnson, president & CEO for On Broadway, Inc. “Our team is focused on providing a memorable holiday experience through event decor, themed programming and festive food and drink, all with the premise of supporting local. It is always a magical experience that brings thousands of people to the Broadway District each holiday season.”

The Christkindlmarket on Broadway will consist of over 20 holiday and unique gift vendors, running collaboratively with other On Broadway events such as the Winter Wine & Beer Walks and Small Business Saturday. All of these events are designed to drive more foot traffic to the Broadway District during a critical shopping season.

Event Dates:

November 20 – December 20, 2025
Thursdays 4 -9 p.m., Fridays 4 – 9 p.m. & Saturdays 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Location: 164 N. Broadway, Green Bay on East Hubbard St. and inside the “Red Sculpture Park” property

For full event details, please visit our website or find us on Facebook.

Local Cancer Care Providers Earn National Recognition for Advancing Cancer Research

Seven physicians and six advanced practice providers (APPs) with the HSHS St. Vincent Hospital Cancer Centers have received recognition from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) for enrolling cancer patients in clinical research trials over the past year.

Each year, the NCI Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP) awards providers who help make cutting-edge cancer treatments possible by enrolling patients in clinical trials. Clinical research depends on patient participation, and providers play a critical role in connecting patients with research opportunities that may change – and save – lives.

The HSHS St. Vincent Hospital Cancer Centers partner with the HSHS Wisconsin Clinical Research Institute (CRI) – a national leader in cancer research – to advance cancer care close to home. Over the past 40 years, the CRI has provided more than 1,700 different clinical trials to more than 5,500 patients here in Northeast Wisconsin and Upper Michigan.

Together, we congratulate the following providers on their success in helping patients understand the importance of participating in clinical trials, along with the possible risks and benefits:

Cancer Control & Treatment Accrual Awards (Physician)
Platinum (≥30 enrollees)	Gold (10-29 enrollees)	Silver (5-9 enrollees)
Brian Burnette, MD	Anthony Jaslowski, MDDavid Groteluschen, MD	Evan Wenig, DOMatthew Ryan, MDStephanie Pritzl, MDEdgard Badine, MD

Cancer Control Accrual Awards (APP)
Platinum (≥10 enrollees)	Gold (4-9 enrollees)	Silver (2-3 enrollees)
	Eric Danihel, PA-CBrittany Walczyk, NPMegan Krumrie-Horkey, PA-C	Laura Schroeder, PA-CKristie Wickman, NPMark Hebert, NP
Cancer Care Delivery Research Accrual Awards (APP)
		Mark Hebert, NP

“These awards reflect the dedication of our providers to not only deliver excellent care but take it a step further to give patients the opportunity to be part of research that drives the future of cancer treatment and care,” said Amy Koffarnus, CRI Director.

Why clinical trials matter

Provide patients access to innovative therapies before they’re widely available
Test new methods for preventing and detecting cancer
Improve quality of life during and after treatment
Shape better cancer care for future generations

This announcement comes ahead of World Cancer Research Day on September 24, 2025, a day dedicated to raising awareness of the critical role research plays in preventing, diagnosing and treating cancer. Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control. This year alone, the NCI estimates two million people will be diagnosed with cancer.

“Today, people diagnosed with cancer are living longer and better lives because of treatments discovered through clinical trials,” Koffarnus said. “We’re proud to be part of that progress right here in Northeast Wisconsin.”

For more information about clinical trial opportunities close to home, visit: https://www.hshs.org/st-vincent/services/cancer-care/clinical-research-institute.

To learn more about HSHS St. Vincent Hospital Cancer Centers, visit: https://www.hshs.org/st-vincent/services/cancer-care.

Address to change, phone number/email addresses to remain the same

The office of New North Inc., the regional economic development corporation for the 18 counties of Northeast Wisconsin, is relocating, effective Oct. 1. The organization’s new physical and mailing address will be:

New North Inc.

1400 Lombardi Ave.

Green Bay, WI 54304

Located within the Lombardi Center and across from the Titletown District, the new office is easily accessible from U.S. Interstate 41 and U.S. Interstate 43, which connect a large portion of the New North region from south to north. Ample parking for visitors is available directly behind the building.

The office phone number, (920) 336-3860, and email addresses for New North team members remain the same. Team members also can be contacted through the New North website, www.thenewnorth.com.

“We thank Northeast Wisconsin Technical College for playing host to the New North offices within its College of Business since 2020,” says Barb LaMue, president and CEO of New North Inc. “We value the partnership of NWTC as we collaborate to move our regional economy forward.”

# # #

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.

Joanne Homa Honored by Employee Benefit News for Leading Digital Transformation in Employee Benefits

Faith Technologies Incorporated™ (FTI), a national leader in engineering, construction, manufacturing and clean energy, is proud to announce that Joanne Homa, director of benefits, has been named one of Employee Benefit News’ Excellence in Benefits honorees for 2025.

Homa was recognized for her outstanding leadership in implementing and investing in benefits technology that enhances the employee experience. She was honored at the Benefits at Work conference on Sept. 3, held at the Wynn Las Vegas.

“This recognition is a reflection of the incredible work and dedication of the entire benefits team,” Homa said. “We consistently demonstrate a deep commitment to ensuring that our benefits programs meet the evolving needs of our workforce and their families. With a focus on continuous improvement, we proactively seek opportunities to enhance plan designs, introduce innovative tools like digital benefits guides and explore forward-thinking solutions such as artificial intelligence (AI) support features.”

Joanne Homa, director of benefits at Faith Technologies Incorporated, proudly holds her Excellence in Benefits award following the national recognition at the Benefits at Work conference. Photo courtesy of FTI.

With more than 15 years experience in the benefits industry, including the past three with FTI, Homa’s strategic vision, compassionate leadership and drive for innovation exemplify what the Excellence in Benefits award is all about. In the past year, she spearheaded the launch of a digital benefits guide that makes it easier for team members to access and understand their benefits anytime, anywhere. The digital guide was widely embraced for its convenience, cost-efficiency and enhancing the team member experience.

Looking ahead, Homa and her team are developing an AI-powered chat feature on FTI’s intranet. This tool will provide team members with 24/7 access to benefits information and immediate answers to frequently asked questions, even outside of normal business hours. Leadership is particularly excited about the AI feature’s potential to further enhance support and accessibility for all team members.

The Benefits at Work conference celebrates human resources (HR) and benefits professionals shaping the future of work. This year’s event will feature peer-led strategy sessions and curated roundtables focused on the top priorities facing today’s workforce leaders.

“Joanne’s work is rooted in doing what is truly in the best interest of our team members,” said Julie Ryan, senior vice president of talent. “She leads with both heart and strategy, and we are incredibly proud to see her recognized on a national stage.”

Read more about the 2025 Excellence in Benefits Award winners or visit faithtechinc.com to learn more about career opportunities and benefits offerings.

Category: Member News