23rd Annual
Fellowship Open Thursday, August 24 - Saturday, August, 26, 2023
Welcome all, On behalf of the 2023 Honorary Chairs, welcome to the 23rd Annual Fellowship Open Event! Over 23 consecutive years, we have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to champion education and open pathways to successful careers for Milwaukee’s youngsters. This dream is made possible only by your generosity and support for this outstanding event! As of this year, the Fellowship Open has raised more than $4 million, which will continue to sustain youth programs and initiatives, including more than 130 local organizations connected to Wisconsin.
We are pleased to announce that this year marks our 23rd Consecutive Sellout! This tremendous outpouring of involvement endorses and guarantees dozens of educational, vocational, and recreational self-development learning experiences and results in positive youth development, advanced leadership training, and corporate engagement. The funding we’ve received has a measurable community impact affecting the educational journey from elementary to university.
The MKE Fellows, a core Fellowship Open initiative designed to eliminate graduation rate disparity for Wisconsin’s African-American males, has flourished as a core Fellowship Open initiative. Cohorts of MKE Fellows have graduated at levels which dramatically exceed national standards, providing real-world evidence that they are well on the way. These gentlemen and scholars are living testaments to the Fellowship Open’s mission and purpose. They serve as indisputable evidence of what can be achieved.
Each year, the Fellowship Open takes pride in acknowledging civic and business leaders in the community who exemplify a commitment to excellence, philanthropy, and service. This year we proudly recognize the achievements of Rich Poirier and Jerome “the Bus” Bettis.
About Rich Poirier Rich Poirier joined Church Mutual in April 2011 as Vice President — Claims and was promoted to Chief Operating Officer in October 2011. He was named President in 2014. He assumed additional responsibilities as CEO in January 2016. Poirier continues to serve as CEO. Poirier earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Marquette University in 1983. Following graduation, he was given a direct commission in the United States Navy through its Law Education Program. Poirier earned his Juris Doctorate from Marquette University in 1986. Following law school graduation, he entered four years of active duty as a Navy judge advocate in Norfolk, Virginia. Following his discharge from active duty, Poirier continued his service in the Navy Reserves. He had several prestigious assignments, including two commanding officer tours. He retired in 2010 with the rank of Captain. His numerous awards and decorations include two Navy Achievement Medals, two Navy Commendation Medals, and a Meritorious Service Medal.
Rich Poirier 2023 Fellowship Open National Corporate Leadership Honoree
Poirier is active in numerous professional and civic organizations. He is the immediate past president of the American Property and Casualty Insurers of America (APCIA) and continues to serve on its board. He also sits on the Board of Directors of Aspirus, Inc., the NTC Foundation, the Marathon County Chapter of the Boys and Girls Club of America, and the Wausau Wolf Pack Youth Lacrosse Association.
About Jerome “the Bus” Bettis The former Pittsburgh Steelers Running Back is one of the best all-time running backs in the NFL (6th overall in rushing). Jerome Bettis had a Hall of Fame career. After graduating from high school in 1990, Jerome Bettis was off to the University of Notre Dame where he was signed as a fullback. Bettis finished his college career at Notre Dame averaging 5.7 yards per carry and was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams 10th overall in 1993. He was named NFL Co-Rookie of the Year and also earned Sporting News Rookie of the Year and Rams MVP honors. Bettis followed the team in their move to St. Louis in 1995 before being traded to the Steelers prior to the 1996 season, where he spent the remaining 10 seasons of his illustrious career.
Jerome “the Bus” Bettis 2023 Fellowship Open Legends Honoree
Diagnosed with asthma at age 14, Bettis is a tireless advocate for asthma education and awareness. Bettis founded and establish “The Bus Stops Here Foundation” in 1996 to help improve the quality of life for disadvantaged and underprivileged children. In 2002, he was named the NFL Walter Payton Man
of the Year for his community involvement and work by his foundation. 2006 Super Bowl XL champion Jerome Bettis, is one of the National Football League’s most popular retired players, the sixth-best rusher of all-time and a six-time Pro Bowl selection. Currently Jerome serves as a studio analyst for ESPN Sports Center and NFL Live. He is also one of the most sought after corporate spokesmen for some of the largest Fortune 500 companies in this country. “The Bus” finished his NFL career in January 2006 after 13 seasons, retiring immediately following the Pittsburgh Steelers’ 21-10 win over the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl XL, in his hometown of Detroit. Bettis ranks sixth on the NFL’s all-time rushing list with 13,662 yards and is one of six players in NFL history to rush for 13,000 yards. He is one of only eight players in NFL history to rush for 1,000 yards for eight or more seasons. He ranks third in NFL history with 3,369 rushing attempts. Bettis was selected to the Pro Bowl six times, including his rookie season.
2023
YOUTH AWARD RECIPIENTS The School of The New York Times
The Watchmen
Mentor Greater Milwaukee
Kenya Outreach
Over the past 22 years, the Fellowship Open has proudly raised more than $4 million in contributions to support youth programs in the Milwaukee Community.
Past Major Award Recipients 2022
2014
2007
!"#$%&'()*&+,"*-.&/0%#1-)2.&3#45&6+/378 9%,,%&:(%;4( :(%$&!(0(*%-)"0 :(%$)0;&3<%0;(&/=*)2%
/*-.&X&:%*;(QB*(($">&AY,*(..)"0. :)..1Z.&7#%2(Q'1&J">(&["4*&J">( E<(&\""#";)2%#&+"2)(-1 E<(&/#&'"*(#%0$&?"Y)0;&3#45
/*;)##% 7A/N:+&="*&E((0&!)*#. _*5%0&_0$(*;*"40$ [FAF+
2021
+)>5%&+"22(* ?4-#(*&@.&?4##1)0; '9A&B(##"C.D&+,"*-.&/0%#1-)2.&3#45& 7*";*%>&6+/378 EF:%5
2020
'"02*)(=&!%>(&3<%0;(* B)@(&7)##%*.D'(-2%#=(&+2<""#&G)*-4%#& E4-"*)0;&7*"H(2I*F&J"C%*$&B4##(*&3"##(;)%-(&/2%$(>1
2019
/=*)2%0&/>(*)2%0&'%#(&K0)-)%-)@( ?#%2L&%0$&:%-)0"&'%#(&/2<)(@(>(0-& M,(*%-)"0&INA/'
2018 OPP&?#%2L&'(0&Q&'%$)."0 ?#%2L&/*-.&B(.-&'9A +);0%-4*(&I%02(&3">,%01
2017 ?#%2L&/*-.&'9AR&K02F S"*-<2"--&S();<5"*<""$&J"4.( M0(&/22"*$&B"40$%-)"0R&K02F T).2"0.)0&?#%2L&J).-"*)2%#&+"2)(-1 ')#C%4L((&3<%,-(*&"=&E<(&:)0L.R&K02F
2016 7%-<C%1.&')#C%4L(( J(%*-&"=&')#C%4L((&I).-*)2-Q ?"1&+2"4-.&"=&/>(*)2% ?"1.&U&!)*#.&3#45&"=&')#C%4L(( T).2"0.)0&?%.L(-5%##&/2%$(>1
2015 /:KGAV /0$*(&:((&A##).&U&3">,%01 E<(&')#C%4L((&3<*).-)%0& B(##"C.<),&?%.L(-5%##&:(%;4( ')#C%4L((&3">>40)-1&W"4*0%#R &&&&I*F&E(**%02(&SF&E<">%.& &&&&+2<"#%*.<),&B40$
2013
2006
J(%*-:"@(&7#%2( ')#C%4L((&/*-&'4.(4>Q]4(.-)"0& ?*)$;(&U&^P&/>(*)2%0.&AY<)5)')#C%4L((&745#)2&+2<""#.DN"5&W(-(*& ?%.L(-5%##&3%>, M4*&S(Y-&!(0(*%-)"0 _0)-($&7(*="*>)0;&/*-.&B40$ _0)-($&+,"*-.&3#45R&K02F
2005
2012
^`&T%1.&-"&/..).-&B"40$%-)"0 B*(.<&3"%.-&?%.L(-5%##&3#)0)2 W"<0."0&7%*L&S();<5"*<""$& /.."2)%-)"0R&K02F ')#C%4L((&3"40-1&+<(*)aZ.&Mb2(Q +<",&C)-<&%&3", E<*((&J%*5"*.&3"402)#Q ?"1&+2"4-.&"=&/>(*)2%
2011 /=*)2%0&T"*#$&B(.-)@%# ')#C%4L((&+4>>(*&N(%$)0;&7*"H(2'7+D_T'&N"5&W(-(*Z.&?%.L(-5%##&3%>,. S//37&/3EQ+M&7*";*%> 7!/&')0"*)-1&3"##(;)%-(&+2<"#%*.<), _.<(*Z.&S(C&:""L&B"40$%-)"0 GFAF&3%*-(*&I(@(#",>(0-&!*"4,R&K02F T)##)(&IF&I%@).&+2<"#%*.<),&B40$
2010 3<%*#(.&c3<42Ld&N<"$(.QB(##"C.<),& M,(0D['3/&["4-<&+2<"#%*.<), ')#C%4L((&3"40-1&3"402)#R& ?"1&+2"4-.&"=&/>(*)2% +"#">"0&3">>40)-1&E(>,#( _0)-($&'(-<"$).-&3<4*2< E*%0.)-)"0.e&'(0&"=&E">"**"C
2009 /=*)2%0&/>(*)2%0&T">(0Z.&B40$ :);<-<"4.(&["4-<&3(0-(* S(Y-&I""*&B"40$%-)"0 S(C&?(;)00)0;.&/*(&7"..)5#(
2008 /..(-&?4)#$(*.& /4*"*%e&7*"H(2-&S)LL) ')0"*)-1&3<*).-)%0&3"%2<(.&/.."2)%-)"0 +<%#">R&K02F
S();<5"*<""$&3<)#$*(0&+,"*-.&:(%;4( '(-*","#)-%0&')#C%4L((&/##)%02(&"=& ?#%2L&+2<""#&A$42%-"*. E<(&T"*$&"=&J",(&')0).-*)(.R&K02F ?(2L4>Q+-%,#(-"0&:)--#(&:(%;4( ')#C%4L((&E(00).&U& A$42%-)"0&B"40$%-)"0 ?"1.&U&!)*#.&3#45&"=&!*(%-(*&')#C%4L(( S();<5"*<""$&J"4.(&"=&')#C%4L((&K02F 7%*L#%C0&/..(>5#1
2004 3(0-(*&="*&E(%2<)0;&A0-*(,*(0(4*.<), E"0&9"QE<)&3<)#$*(0Z.& 7(*="*>)0;&A0.(>5#( _*5%0&:(%;4(&A$42%-)"0&U& ["4-<&7*";*%>. TA?&I4?").&3#45
2003 OPP&?#%2L&'(0Q["4-<&7*";*%> /-<#(-(.&="*&["4-< /=*)2%0&/>(*)2%0&3<)#$*(0Z.&E<(%-(* ')#C%4L((&:)0L.&["4-< G"#40-((*&7*"H(2-. S(C&J",(&')..)"0%*1&?%,-).-&3<4*2< ["4-<&M4-*(%2<&7*";*%>
2002 ?(#)(@(*.&)0&3<*).-&["4-<&7*";*%> ?(-<(#&?%,-).-&3<4*2< I:J&/2%$(>1 E<4*;""$&'%*.<%##&+2<"#%*.<),&B40$ E*%0.-)-)"0.e&'(0&"=&E">"**"C
2001 3<*).-&-<(&9)0;&?%,-).-&3<4*2<Q ["4-<&B%>)#1&3">>40)-1&3(0-(* 3">>40)-1&G)##%;(R&:EI J"#1&N($((>(*&K0.-)-4-)"0%# 3<4*2<&"=&3<*).-Q["4-< B%>)#1&3">>40)-1&3(0-(*& S(C&E(.-%>(0-&3<4*2<&"=& ')#C%4L((Q["4-<&/2-)@)-)(.
Thank You to Our Sponsors!
Corporate Leadership Circle Sponsors
Signature Sponsors
Platinum Sponsors
Gold Sponsors
Michael & Jackie Barber Harvey Family Foundation
Youth Sponsors
Breakfast Sponsor
Lunch Sponsors
Golf Hole Sponsors Brian A. Mitchell Diamond Discs International The Effective Communication Coach In Loving Memory of Dr. Emma Felder Greater Milwaukee Committee Greater Milwaukee Urban League Johnson Financial Group JP Morgan
MOTOWN Sponsors AAA Advocate Aurora Health Melissa Nicole Allen Church Mutual
MMAC
GE Healthcare
Gerard Randall
Gruber Law
Radio Milwaukee Inc. Readerlink United Healthcare Versiti
Charles Matthews Thrivent West Bend Community Foundation
We Black We Golf
Media Sponsors
Honorary Chair Members !"#$%&'(#$%"#)*+,'"++-#.,/,.-#&'0#1234"++,3'&5#5"&0"2+#6%3#+"2/"0#&+#!"#"$%$&' ()%*$+'",'-).'/0/1'2.33"4+)*5#65.##432#$%",2#.377,$7"'$#$3#83*'9+$"2+#&'0#$%",2# &.%,"/"7"'$#34#2&,+,'9#4*'0+#432#3*2#.377*',$8: !"#$-.</1
'#</($!"*
C+.)$8";#3
6E>E1:/(#$-"#
6B/7$'"0.I"0#
N0"*)$8"1#
!"+($-"I#00
H#"3>#$'""(=#
A.3@$8"1#
A.E3/=#$-3.*:"(
8"B#3:$%.H3.(:
6(:+"(*$8"11
L*3"(#$-E7.1
,.0:#3$%.(/#3
C+3/1:";+#3$8"I0.()
8.E00"$?.(#1
8/=+.3)$%#I/1
A.3@$9./(
C"E3:(#*$?/1"(
%.33*$%#<#3#::
-#((/1$9+/#0)1
5#($?(>#0
'#((#:+$%/::0#
9+.@.$97.3:
53.()"($6).71
M.3<#*$N#0)#3
?.3(#00$%E=.1
H.E0/#($97/:+2$!3&
8"(.0)$6).71
O".+$N#(=#3"*
D/(=#(:$%*0#1
8"B#3:$97/:+
9:#;+#($6).71
8")(#*$N#3>E1"(
H3#>$A.3:/(
L"(*$97/:+
8.*$600#(
!"+((/#$N/#0)1$!3&
,/00/.7$A.3:/(
N3.(="$9;3.>>/(1
67"1$6()#31"(
!#33*$NE07#3
C+.30#1$A.::+#I1
8E11#00$9:.7;#32$!3&
'#</($6()#31"(
?3/=$H.00/#(
C#)3/=$A.*1
Q#33*$9:E=@#*2$444
8/=+.3)$5.)>#3
60/$H.3B.
%.U.*#::#$A='/((#*
6()3#I$L.*0"3
?7/0#$5.(@1
C.30$H##
L/7$A=AE3:*2$!3&
A/=+.#0$L.*0"3
A/=+.#0$5.3B#3
50./(#$H/B1"(
C+3/1$A/1@#0
A.3@$L+"7.1
C"3)#3"$5.3@0#*
60B#3:$H3.=#
53/.($A/:=+#00
6(:+"(*$L/77"(1
%.D.E>+($5.3@#3
-#P:3.$M.)(":
L+"7.1$A/:=+#00
8")(#*$L*1"(
A.()#0.$5.3(#1
?7#3*$M.30.(
9/)(#*$A"(=3/#U
-#3#@$L*E1
?33"0$5.3(#::
'#($M.33/1
?07#3$A""3#2$!3&$
A.3@$,.)#
D/=:"3$5.3(#::
C+.30#1$M.3<#*
!"+($A"E:3*2$!3&
'*0#$,.00.=#
!./1"($5.::0#
'.0.($M.*I"")
C"3*$O#::0#1
'#((#:+$,.00#3
4<"3$5#(F.7/(
Q.E0$M/=@#31"(
-.3*0$O#I#00
C+3/1:";+#3$,.3#
C+3/1$5"1:"(
!"1#;+$M/00
'#</($O#I#00
41./.+$,.1+/(>:"(
G0*11#1$53/)>#7.(
,/00/#$M/(#12$!3&
8#>>/#$O#I1"(
%.33*$,.:#31
8.()*$53*.(:
H#"3>#$M/(:"(
-/.$O/=+"01
H3#>"3*$,#10#*
%#8"*$5E:0#3
%.33*$M/10#
G0/=#$Q.*(#
6()3#I$,/00/.71
%"E/1$5E:0#3
8.0;+$M"007"(
-"("<.($Q#;;#3
8">#3$,/00/.71
A.3</($5*(E7
C"3#*$M"R#
6+7.)$Q#33*
L#33*$%&$,/00/.71$
-.</)$C.33
6(:+"(*$ME)1"(
'#(.($Q#:#31"(
8"(.0)$,/00/.71"(
9;#(=#3$C">>1
O@#7$43"#>BE
63:+E3$Q+/00/;1
,#()#00$,/00/1
D/3>/1$C"0B#3:
!.@#/7$!.=@1"(S5#00
60$Q/(=@(#*
,*7.($,/(1:"(
,/00/.7$C"0#7.(
A.P/#$C&$!.=@1"($444
'#/:+$Q"10#*
6(:+"(*$,"")1
?3/=$C"(0#*
C.30$!#(@/(1
A.3</($Q3.::$
8"B#3:$,*((
53/.($C""@#
,/00/.7$!#(@/(1
53.()"($8.7#*
H3.)*$C3"1B*
C.<.0/#3$!"+(1"(
%.O#00#$8.7#*
-.</)$C3"I0#*
%#(("3$!"+(1"($
H#3.3)$8.().00
C0/J"($C3E7;
T1=.3$!"+(1"(2$!3&
Q#;/$8.()"0;+
9+#0)"($CEK#
H3#>"3*$!"(#1$
!"+($8/)0#*
5#3:$-.</1
A/=+.#0$!"(#1$
9="::$8"=+#00#
!"#$%&$'#((#)* ;3*'0"2
!"+($,&$-.(/#012$!3& <%&,27&'
!"+($,&$-.(/#012$444 $$$=2"+,0"'$
5/00*$V"E(>
>3*2'&7"'$#?,2".$32
More than $4 Million Contributed to Youth Programs
2023 Honorees
Rich Poirier
Jerome “the Bus” Bettis
2023 Fellowship Open National Corporate Leadership Honoree
2023 Fellowship Open Legends Honoree
2022
2015
2008
!"#$%&'()*(+#,,"&-' .$*(/0"1(2*(!#$%0'
789(:&%4A G#$14&(G%%4'01 /#;=4&(H&$9>7#$3&$
/81&(F&$$6
.&&(+*()0341'01 5&)06(78,%&$
2014
2006
2020
J&%(F"4%%4K'
2021
.#1(7#9&$ :491&6(+01;$4&<
2019 /#;=4&(/061&$>?&$'&&
I$#1=()0341'01
2013 H&$3(?0"% !"#$%&'(H#$B&6
@$&A(+#$;8'
2012
2018
:#19&()0341'01
.$*(@&0$A&(?001;& 5#)8&(+#$,41 .#B49(@$83&$
2017 C"&%D#(:4#' 703(.#19$49A&
2016
E';#$()03&$,'01 .$*(/0#1(F$41;& F#,,6(!#90$41
2#61&(GD3$6
2011 24%%4&(.#B4'
2007
/0'&K"(?&11&96 /#D&'(7&;=8D
2005 2&'%&6(:;0,,
2004
50$$#41&(!#$,&$ )03&$,(H#$$4'P(/$*
2003 /0"1(@4B&1'
2002
:=4K()0341'01
.$*(H#$0%9()0'&
2010
2001
L%6''&'(M/8140$N(7$49A&D#1
O,,0$1&6(H0$#;&(@&0$A&
)&.011#()09A&$'
2009 H#1=(O#$01
My Dear Friend and Colleague, Jerome Bettis: There are exceptionally rare moments in the lives of former professional athletes which generate and, in many ways, validate a profound sense of fulfillment and accomplishment. The reward for personal and professional achievement is often not defined monetarily but rather by the respect of peers and those who appreciate your integrity and contribution to the game. Induction into the HOF is the epitome of that recognition and the instant at which you are notified arrives as an unforgettable moment in time. When I was inducted, it was my friend and teammate, Charles Woodson, who knocked on my door to inform me of my enshrinement. It is a moment I will forever cherish. To those who much is given, much is required. Hall of Fame standards demand that community leaders and servants like Jerome Bettis not simply be acknowledged for achievement but empowered to continue serving youth and community. With his induction as the 2023 Fellowship Open Legends Honoree, “The Bus” arrives at another celebrated milestone. To my friend and fellow Pro Football Hall of Famer, Jerome “The Bus” Bettis, on behalf of the Fellowship Open Founders, President, and Honorary Chairs, friends, supporters, volunteers, and sponsors, Congratulations! As an iconic figure who has meant so much to the game of football and the game of life, and who just so happened to wear my favorite number, we salute your accomplishments on and off the field, and offer our gratitude for allowing us to continue our missions of positively impacting young people in Detroit, Pittsburgh, Milwaukee, and across the country. With Respect,
LeRoy Butler #36 HOF 2022
Measuring Progress Over the past decade, we have seen the evolution, advancement, and maturation of a dynamic force of young African American men as they’ve set off on their respective journeys to greatness. They now walk the hallowed halls of some of America’s foremost, most respected companies and institutions as executives and decision-makers. Witnessing them post-graduation, returning home to Milwaukee, giving back, and engaged in meaningful community service, is an amazing demonstration of their integrity, effort, and intention. We are genuinely thankful for those who’ve had an opportunity to expand their territories landing as far west as Google and as far east as Black Rock. We are exceptionally grateful for those who have made their way back home to help construct Milwaukee’s future by working with some of Wisconsin’s most renowned and influential businesses and corporations.
23rd Annual
Fellowship Open Thursday, August 24 - Saturday, August, 26, 2023
23rd Annual
Fellowship Open
23 Years of Fellowship
Welcome Congratulations to the Fellowship Open, its sponsors, and its Honorary Chairs on successfully promoting urban youth programs and involvement in business. The Fellowship Open’s mission is to recognize volunteers and organizations that have positive impacts on our community’s youth. In the past 23 years, the Fellowship Open has raised more than $4 million for over 160 youth organizations, throughout Wisconsin. This book will feature a few of those youth & young adults who have been impacted recently by the work and donations for the Fellowship Open. It also contains important information to help your weekend be the best it can be! Please take some time to read the stories, and learn about the great things happening in Milwaukee.
Weekend at a Glance 2023 Fellowship Open dates: Thursday, August 24-Saturday, August, 26, 2023 Various locations (visit www.fellowshipopen.org for details)
Thursday, August 24, 2023 Opening Reception Dinner | Doors Open: 5:30 PM | 6:00 PM - 9:30 PM IPAMA | 3200 W. Hampton Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53209 We will commence our weekend with an Opening Reception Dinner at IPAMA. We cordially invite you to join us in paying tribute to the 2023 Corporate Leadership Honoree of the Fellowship Open, Rich Poirier, CEO of Church Mutual.
Friday, August 25, 2023 Big Bus Breakfast Stop Kettle Hills Golf Course | 3375 WI - 167, Richfield, WI 53076
23rd Fellowship Open Golf Tournament | 6:00 AM Kettle Hills Golf Course | 3375 WI - 167, Richfield, WI 53076 Golfers will play a round of scramble-style golf all morning long, rain or shine. There are special hole events and trivia along the course.
Friends of the Fellowship Event | 8:30 AM Pickup| 9:00 AM Event Power of Storytelling | Radio MKE | 220 E. Pittsburgh Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53204 Through the power of storytelling, guests will learn about famed show designer, Dr. Dwayne Edwards, founder of Pensole Lewis College of Business, and his journey, through a morning fireside chat hosted by Grammy Award Winning Producer Chad Roper, of Dreams Never Expire.
MKE Fellows Youth Forum II | 11:00 AM Kettle Hills Golf Course | 3375 WI - 167, Richfield, WI 53076 Exclusive men’s forum with the MKE Fellows focused on clarifying information, dispelling myths and educating in the areas of career, personal life and beyond. *Invite Only*
Motown Special Awards Luncheon | 1:30 PM Kettle Hills Golf Course | 3375 WI - 167, Richfield, WI 53076 Guests, staff, and golfers will enjoy lunch before listening to speeches and congratulations from this year’s Youth Awardees, Fellowship Open staff, and 2023 Fellowship Open Legends Honoree Jerome “the Bus” Bettis.
President’s Backyard BBQ | 6:30 PM John and Erickajoy’s Home | 12518 N. Saint Anne Court, Mequon, WI 53092 BBQ Dinner at the home of John III and Erickajoy Daniels. A time of reconnecting and socializing with Fellowship Open guests and supporters. Enjoy live music and a wonderful buffet of cuisine by local chefs. Reverse valet will be provided.
Saturday, August 26, 2023 Chairman’s Circle Tournament | Morning Teeoff The love of golf continues with the opportunity to experience the greens in Midwest at Clubs in our local area for foursomes looking for some continued competition and connection. *Limited Attendance*
Friends of the Fellowship Open Event | 9:00 AM Fashion Forward | Marn Art + Culture Hub | 191 N. Broadway - Suite 102, Milwaukee, WI 53202 | Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel | 139 E. Kilbourn Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53202 For our second Friends of the Fellowship event of the weekend, guests will enjoy a fashion forward experience, with a presentation featuring Stellar artist styler, Summer. Join us for a brunch and tour of a fashion venue asset in Milwaukee.
Bible Study Devotional | 5:30 PM Milwaukee Athletic Club | 758 N Broadway, Milwaukee, WI 53202 This evening connects guests for a time of reflection and refilling, through inspired teaching from The Honorable Judge Everett Mitchell, Senior Pastor of Christ the Solid Rock Baptist Church in Madison, WI.
Founder’s Dinner Celebration | 6:45 PM Heart of the City *Please RSVP*
A Taste of the Big Apple The School of the New York Times To encompass a life-changing experience in only a few short passages is a tall order. During the summer of 2023, the MKE Fellows provided their students an opportunity of a lifetime; a chance to study in New York regarding a subject matter of their choosing for two weeks. ALIVE MKE helped relocate Fellows to McKeon Hall in New York City where they resided while taking classes at Fordham University in subjects such as “Writing for Television,” “A Million Lives in the Law,” and “Food and Culture in New York.” For some Fellows, this was their first time leaving Wisconsin, flying alone, or spending such a long time away from family. Every student who returned to the General Mitchell airport in Milwaukee from New York returned with a smile on their face and newfound ambitions and goals. My name is Marcelino Ishag, I am a writer, and the following is a testament of my experience in New York City. I didn’t always know that I wanted to be a writer. But from a young age, my parents and teachers recognized my love for the written craft and fostered an environment where I could continue to learn and grow my love for the craft. In middle school, I began to recognize my love for writing, it was then when I knew I wanted to be a writer. As time passed, I wrote tirelessly, but my dreams of being a writer subsided. I’d never met anybody who wrote for a living before, and so I believed this career path to be unobtainable. This was until I went to New York this summer. In New York, I met a man named Jeff, who like me had grown up in the Midwest, but was now making a living as a writer in the big apple. I learned a lot in New York concerning writing, and methods to improve my craft, but there are several key lessons I learned that I will carry with me. In New York, I realized that being
a writer was a real career that could provide me with a financially stable future if I worked hard enough. Before going to New York, I had the misconception that writing was not a career that could provide me with financial stability, I’m glad to say that New York proved me wrong. New York reminded me that hard work and dedication do pay off, and I’m glad to say that New York reignited my love for writing and has inspired me to rewrite my book so that I can publish it. New York also taught me the importance of independence and solitary, first-time experiences. As someone who comes from a very close-knit family, I’m used to having company regardless of what activity I engage in. New York proved to me that I could be independent if I wished to do so. I navigated several daunting tasks on my own, and found that it helped build up my confidence within myself and my capabilities. Students who returned from the big apple after attending The School of the New York Times all shared similar stories and experiences. Dreams had been revived, and students returned with a sense of ambition and drive that they hadn’t left with. Students were better able to define their areas of interest, and identify the next steps on their path in order to be able to reach their goals. All students expressed great gratitude for the opportunity they’d experienced, with some even stating they’d like to make New York their home in the future.
George Walker A Young Man of Achievement MKE Fellow George Walker had an eventful year filled with hard-earned accomplishments. He won Mr. Beautillion from the Alpha Phi Alpa Fraternity, graduated high school with a GPA of 4.3 as an International Baccalaureate scholar, was named an outstanding teen by the Milwaukee chapter of Jack and Jill of America, and won city conference in both wrestling and volleyball. This was the first time Mr. Walker’s high school, Rufus King, had won in the wrestling city conference since 1977. The MKE Fellows applaud Mr. Walker on his achievements, and look forward to his bright future at the University of Wisconsin Madison to study Nuclear Engineering.
New Career Explorations The Baird Passport Project Impact comes through committed relationships, as evidenced in the investment of Kenan Peterson. Kenan serves as Senior Vice President and Wealth Strategist for Baird and has been newly appointed as an Honorary Chair of the Tournament. After his appointment to the Tournament’s advisory circle, Kenan has quickly added great voice and value in elevating Baird’s partnership of supporting ALIVE and its initiatives. Recently, the collaboration curated a day of career exploration where students from multiple schools across the Milwaukee area met for a full day of professional development, exposing them to insights, career advice, and senior-level leaders who invested their time into the lives of the young people demonstrating their authentic commitment to the next generation workforce. The venue was a visual reminder for them; as students stood in the dazzling 29th-floor conference center, they were reminded to see their city from a new view and, more importantly, their futures and the limitless boundaries for the opportunities ahead of them. The students’ exploration was facilitated by and captured through a custom-created passport where they stamped their spots of career discussions with leaders from a broad list of career areas for them to explore—this day launched something powerful. Their ‘souvenirs’ from their journey included new curiosity and confidence in the young people who saw new opportunities and new leaders to tap into.
Exploration of the Arts Whitney Houston and Black Panther In 2023, ALIVE committed to furthering arts and culture through two extraordinary events, emphasizing diversity and collaboration in an extraordinary fusion of music, cinema, and performance art. The first event, held in May, was an exclusive performance titled “The Greatest Love for Whitney’’ at the Milwaukee Rep’s Stackner Cabaret. This sold-out event featured an unforgettable performance by Alesia Miller, a collaborator from Timeless Harmony. The show gathered an impressively diverse audience, reinforcing ALIVE’s partnership with the Rep following the successful ALIVE Ball: A Live Experience held at the same venue previously. The second major event was the captivating opening night of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra’s “Black Panther: In Concert” series. This unique experience showcased Ryan Coogler’s 2018 critically-acclaimed film, “Black Panther”, in the new and stunning Bradley Symphony Center. Under the proficient guidance of Ken-David Masur, the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra performed the film’s soundtrack live. Significantly, the original drummer from the film, Massamba Diop, was present, creating an authentic and mesmerizing cinematic experience. ALIVE’s 2023 arts programming successfully blended culture, music, and cinematic spectacle, fostering a sense of unity and appreciation for the arts in Milwaukee.
Jack and Jill Health and Lifestyles for Our Youth Chapter Programming is the “heart” of the Jack and Jill national organization. It is the way the mothers “create a medium of contact for children that stimulates growth and development.” One of their core focus areas is Health, and this Spring, the Milwaukee Chapter of Jack and Jill partnered with Fellowship Open Chef, Chef Adija, who was featured on season 2 of Food Network’s national baking competition show “Christmas Cookie Challenge”, to curate a creative soulful healthy menu flip. They joined Chef Adija as they transformed Boelter’s North Milwaukee/Glendale Superstore into “Grandma’s Kitchen,” where they learned healthy alternatives to soulful recipes. The lessons were of word and deed as the young people got busy in the kitchen as a troupe of junior sous chefs, preparing and presenting a special menu of southern sides, including yams, collard greens, and mac and cheese, with healthier approaches. The youth also had great discussions on the power of food, legacy memories from elders, and best choices to stay healthy and pass on those same memories from “Grandma’s Kitchen” to their descendants.
Lauren Cain Helping to Build Masterpiece Dreams for Young Girls Lauren Cain is the founder and owner of Beloved Masterpieces LLC, which uses art to encourage women and youth of color to see that they are God’s Beloved Masterpieces. Lauren is proud to be a graduate of Forward48, a premier Milwaukee leadership program designed to serve as a pipeline for diverse, solid talent in the city. Lauren is also a recipient of the Better Ways to Cope Grant with the Milwaukee County of Behavioral Health, a 2018 Diversity Fellow with Marquette University, a Pop-UP MKE Winner, a RISE Graduate, and has been recognized as ALIVE Inc.’s Impactful Educator of the Year in 2017 & 2022. Most recently this year, she was selected as the new Director of Community Engagement for Girls Scouts of America in Southeast WI, which is one of the largest in the nation. As a woman of faith, purpose, and advocacy, Lauren’s passion is to uplift and advise women on blazing new paths, healing from significant trauma, and developing organic joy in all areas of their lives. Additionally, Lauren’s gifting is to see the needs of young women of color and create avenues for them to express themselves through art, higher education, and sisterhood circles. Lauren is a known community leader and advocate in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Oby Nwabuzor 45 Early Childhood Educators Homes Oby Nwabuzor, an esteemed collaborator with ALIVE, has carved a niche for herself in the realm of urban development as the founder of Envision Growth, a Milwaukee development firm. She recently teamed up with LISC, Malaika, and other notable firms to create an innovative residential project specifically tailored for early childhood educators. This development consists of 45 new homes, each designed to cater to the needs of educators and facilitate their important role within the community. Nwabuzor’s contribution to the project extends beyond her expertise in urban development. By recognizing the critical need for affordable, accessible housing for early childhood educators, she brought an informed and compassionate perspective to the development process. She envisioned and executed a community-focused project that not only adds to the architectural landscape of Milwaukee but also fosters an environment of growth and learning. Her collaboration with diverse stakeholders further underscored her commitment to building inclusive, sustainable communities. Through her work with LISC, Malaika, and other firms, Nwabuzor was able to leverage diverse resources and perspectives to bring this unique development to fruition, thereby supporting both the educators and the children they serve. Oby Nwabuzor’s contributions reflect her dedication to community development and her innovative approach to urban design.
HYFIN Radio Black Music & Culture in Milwaukee Can you hear that? On the air now is a new radio station under Radio Milwaukee known as HYFIN. HYFIN is “Milwaukee’s only Urban alternative radio station featuring the full spectrum of Black Music beyond R&B and Hip-Hop,” with an aim to connect Milwaukee with the best hits from artists of color. Under an effort spearheaded by Milwaukee Radio’s executive director, Maxie Jackson, who is also an honorary chair for the Fellowship Open, Mr. Jackson helped begin the one-ofa-kind radio station. Today, HYFIN’s team has grown, led by Atlanta native Tarik Moody, The team features talent from all over the U.S. The radio station goes beyond music, partnering with local artists and businesses owned by people of color in order to help promote their trade and even their music. One of HYFIN’s best qualities is its opportunity for musicians to submit their music to have played on the air. Furthermore, HYFIN also brings to light stories from people of color who previously would not have had an adequate platform to be shared upon, like the story Element Everest Banks who utilized a black-owned DNA company to discover her heritage. HYFIN is working hard to pave the way for the next generation of radio listeners by creating new and unique content for the city of Milwaukee. Are you listening?
Chad “C-Note” Roper Dreams Never Expire Chad “C-Note” Roper is a Grammy-nominated vocal producer, songwriter, engineer, and motivational coach. The CEO and Chief Brand Officer of Big Sound Musick, Roper started his career with Rico Love in 2006, working with artists like Jamie Foxx and Rihanna. His work on Rihanna’s “Loud” album earned him a Grammy nomination in 2011. In 2009, he founded Big Sound Musick, which added a management division in 2019. Roper also launched a non-profit organization #DreamsNeverExpire in 2014, engaging with young people across 13 cities. He continues to shape the music industry by helping artists and inspiring students.
Dr. D’Wayne Edwards Walk in my Shoes Dr. D’Wayne Edwards, a trailblazing Black footwear designer with over 32 years of experience at brands like L.A. Gear, Nike, and Jordan, founded PENSOLE in 2010. This first-of-its-kind U.S. academy, specializing in footwear design, functional apparel, and more, aims to offer opportunities to young designers irrespective of their socioeconomic backgrounds. PENSOLE has evolved into a global feeder school for top footwear brands, placing 500+ alumni in prestigious companies like Nike, Adidas, and others. Besides running PENSOLE, Edwards has taught at leading institutions including ArtCenter, Parsons, MIT, and Harvard, and spoken at the Clinton Global Conference.
Taj Matumbi A New Perspective Taj Matumbi born and raised in Northern California, received a BFA in painting and ceramics at MIU in 2018. Since being an MFA 2-D/Painting candidate at UW-Madison, Taj has had the opportunity to commission a mural in the summer of 2020 for the city of Madison during the wake of the protests in response to George Floyd’s Murder. Taj has also recently had the honor of being invited to collaborate with Tandem Press to create a limited-edition print of his work. Post graduating this spring, Taj plans to stay in the Midwest area and continue to grow his art community and his practice in the Midwest. “History, pop culture, urban folklore, and improvisation drive my work as an image maker. I’m interested in how this source material translates to shape, text, and color that coalesce into meaning within abstract fields. In recent paintings, I blend formal abstraction with poorly rendered figures that recall my primary school days - an intentionally naive and self-taught drawing approach that allows my subject matter to more fluidly inhabit both real and imagined worlds.”
Kendra Michael Fashioned by Grace Kendra Michael, known as “The Visionary Midwife,” is a multi-talented creative based in Orlando, Florida. She excels in roles like celebrity stylist, tailor, minister, and youth mentor. As the owner of KM Creative-Works, she guides fellow creatives to cultivate their gifts in alignment with their purpose. Kendra’s mission is to help creatives birth their visions, define their identity, and discover their purpose. She’s also the visionary behind Cut From The Same Grace, a non-profit empowering foster care youth through programs like sewing, financial literacy, and art therapy. A former foster child herself, Kendra aspires to be the support she needed. Her deep passion for creativity and style led her to embrace her true identity as a stylist and identity coach. Her journey teaches that everything has purpose, and she sees personal style as an act of worship. Kendra’s work inspires others to embrace authenticity and self-expression, embodying the belief that we’re all “Fashioned By Grace.” (Proverbs 139:13-18)
Experience Milwaukee Thursday, August 24, 2023 “Tonalism Now” Lily Pad Gallery | 215 N. Broadway, Milwaukee, WI 53202 The tradition of Tonalism has permeated American landscape painting for centuries. The genre has been carried on by those who have studied their techniques and approaches, like contemporary painter John MacDonald (b. 1957). “Tonalism Now” is a contemporary look at a historical genre, featuring new paintings by John MacDonald hung beside those of his mentor, Curt Hanson. The stylistic lineage that exists between these two artists is explored in this exhibition, highlighting the importance of carrying on this historical genre through a contemporary lens.
Summer Concert Series with Milwaukee Blues Rock Collective | 8:00 PM Veterans Memorial Park | 6900 W. National Avenue, West Allis, WI 53214
Enjoy free live concerts this summer at Veterans Memorial Park as our Summer Concert Series returns for 2023. All events are held from 5 - 8 p.m., with food trucks beginning service at 5 p.m. and musicians performing at 6 p.m. Make sure to bring your own lawn chairs and blankets. Concerts can be canceled last minute due to weather or other conditions beyond the City’s control.
Friday, August 25, 2023 Fresh Coast Jazz Festival Pabst Theater | 1040 N. Vel R. Phillips Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53203 Experience it all — great music from the superstars of jazz and uniquely fun events that are sure to stimulate your senses! Plus, proceeds go towards scholarships for deserving area youth and to help keep music programs in area schools. So, you get to do good while having fun! *Ticketed Event*
Saturday, August 26, 2023 Summer Park Jam Weekend | 1:30 - 2:50 PM Marcus Performing Arts Center | 929 N. Water Street, Milwaukee, WI 53202 TRUE Skool and Marcus Performing Arts Center (MPAC) have unveiled their plans to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Hip Hop’s creation with an incredible two-day celebration in Downtown Milwaukee. Now in its fifth year, the 2023 Summer Park Jam will take place in August at the MPAC Outdoor Grounds and will highlight and celebrate all elements of Hip Hop culture. This landmark event in the history of Milwaukee Hip Hop culture will feature Milwaukee’s own Speech with his Grammy Award-winning group, Arrested Development, along with renowned author and iconic rap lyricist Wordsworth.
23rd Annual
Fellowship Open