Leadership 2.0 Class of 2025

Directory CLASS OF 2025 Adam Bragee

EO Johnson Business Technologies // Account Executive - Major Accounts abragee@eojohnson.com (715) 896-2504 My name is Adam Bragee and I am an Account Executive with EO Johnson Business Technologies, where I have worked for the past 8 years. My wife, Stephanie, and I have been married for almost 7 years. We have one daughter, Haddie, who will be 2 this coming July and are expecting our second child this coming November. Outside of work I enjoy golfing, hunting, fishing and being with family/friends. I’m looking forward to seeing how this program can help me grow both personally & professionally!

Amanda Allen

Oakwood Hills Animal Hospital // CVT, Team Lead amanda.allen1206@gmail.com (815) 997-4582 I am a Certified Veterinary Technician working at Oakwood Hills Animal Hospital. I graduated from Trident Technical college in 2016 in Charleston, SC. I have been living in Eau Claire for 6 years with my husband, a USAF Veteran, and my dog Folly. Some of my hobbies include reading, gardening, animals, and kayaking.

Amy DeBruyckere

Oakwood Bank // Human Resources adebruyckere@oakwoodbank.net (507) 259-3134 I enjoy being outdoors…hiking, biking and spending time in nature or at the lake. I truly enjoy spending time with friends and family.

Directory CLASS OF 2025 Angela Eckman

Eau Claire County // HR Director Angela.Eckman@eauclairecounty.gov (715) 828-5521 Angela Eckman is the Director of Human Resources for Eau Claire County. Prior to that, she worked for 10 years as a Campus & Business Development Manager for CVTC & 10 years as a Senior Branch Manager for Adecco Staffing. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from UW-Stout and a Master’s Degree from Lakeland University. She lives in EC with her husband and 4 children.

I’m currently training to run in the upcoming EC Marathon on a relay team.

Angela Weideman

Eau Claire County // Human Services angela.weideman@eauclairecounty.gov (715) 839-6914 Angela Weideman is the Eau Claire Human Services Director, and she is a Doctoral student at IUPUI in Global Public Health Leadership. She is a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) and Educator who taught high school social studies and a course at UWEC in the honors program related to the interaction of mental and physical health.

She has one son, and they enjoy playing and watching sports together.

Brandi Rowe

Veritas Steel // Talent Acquisition and Engagement Leader brandi.rowe@veritassteel.com (715) 716-1056 I have been an Human Resources Professional for over 12 years specializing in Recruiting and employee engagement. I am a Mental Health Advocate, Animal lover, and overall a genuine and passionate person with the desire to improve my leadership skills and abilities.

Directory CLASS OF 2025 Catherine Marohl

Ayres Associates // Administrative Assistant marohlc@AyresAssociates.com (715) 834-3161 I enjoy my career as an Administrative Assistant in the Engineering Services Division at the Ayres (Eau Claire) office. I worked with local government in various roles and departments for many years. I earned my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Business from UW-Eau Claire. I participated in the Leadership Eau Claire program and coursework in the UW Certified Public Manager program. I enjoy sewing, reading, gardening, and exploring our local trails.

Danielle Kummer

Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce // Chief Financial Officer kummer@eauclairechamber.org (715) 858-0618 Danielle Kummer has served as the Chief Financial Officer for the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce for the last 5.5 years. Prior to the Chamber, she worked for Manpower for 6 years in several different roles within the company. Danielle is an Advisory Board Member for the Women’s Business Center. She also serves as the Fiscal Agent for the Eau Claire Area Youth Apprenticeship Consortium.

Evan Nyberg

CCF Bank // Branch Manager enyberg@ccf.us (715) 456-0134 I am the Branch Manager at CCF Bank. I have been employed here for 9 years and have held 5 different positions. I earned me BA in Finance graduating from UWEC in 2011. I currently volunteer in the EC Chamber, Fall Creek Plan Commission, United Way Finance Committee, Finance Council for my church, taught JA for many years, and have coached my kid’s sporting involvements. I have two kids, Isla, 11, and Jet, 7.

Professional interests are being involved in the community and helping people.

Directory CLASS OF 2025 Gary Vidlund

The Phoenix Taproom and Kitchen // General Manager gvidlund@gmail.com (906) 869-1495 Graduated from NMU with a degree in Construction Management, I managed Menards for 7 years, then led Chippewa River Distillery for 3 years. Now opening The Phoenix Taproom and Kitchen. Father to Wilson, who just mastered riding a bike, and owner of two German Shepherds, Elmer and Eleanor.

Jake Serwe

UW-Eau Claire // Business Development & Sales Manager serwej@uwec.edu (715) 836-4150 I currently work at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire doing Business Development.

I graduated with a BS in Sport Management for the University of Wisconsin-Parkside. I reside in Eau Claire with my wife Emily and son Sawyer. I have passion for relationships and finding out how I can help and serve others.

John Lahti

Miron Construction Co., Inc. // Senior Project Manager john.lahti@miron-construction.com (715) 598-5716 I am a Senior Project Manager working on large commercial projects for Miron Construction. I am a graduate of UW-Stout’s construction program. I am married to my high school sweetheart and have a 2-year-old boy and a 3-month-old girl.

Professionally, I am a LEED Green Associate and Advanced Healthcare Construction certificate holder. I am a United Way Leadership Circle and the Wisconsin Healthcare Engineering Association member. I also graduated from Leadership Eau Claire in 2019.

Directory CLASS OF 2025 Katye Quilling

Oakwood Hills Animal Hospital // Certified Veterinary Technician katquilling@gmail.com (715) 556-4817 I’ve been a CVT for 25 yrs. I have been at Oakwood Hills Animal Hospital for 24yrs. I started as a young technician just out of school, in fact I did my externship at OHAH, and have grown into a profession that fits me perfectly. I’m married and have 3 children. We live in Menomonie on my husband’s family farm. Our boys are active in all sports which keeps us running all year long.

Kaylynn Winegar

Eau Claire Area Chamber // VP Investor Engagement winegar@eauclairechamber.org (715) 858-0615 Kaylynn Winegar is the Vice President of Investor Engagement at the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce. She is a passionate Eau Claire citizen, wife, and mom of a 2 year old boy and Shorkie named Gus.

Madison Lawrence

Heritage Senior Living // Assistant Director mlawrence@heritageal.com (920) 207-3060 I grew up in Sheboygan, Wi and moved to Eau Claire in 2018 to attend school at UWEC. In 2020, I received an email from one of my professors about a job opening at Heritage Senior Living for their conceirge. I applied for the position and got a job offer a few days later! Fast forward about a year later and I got promoted to Assistant Director of both the Assisted Living and Memory Care facility. I have held this position for three years now and continue to learn new things every day.

Directory CLASS OF 2025 Mady Score

Eau Claire Body Care // Lead Concierge mady@eauclairebodycare.com (715) 225-2551 I am a dedicated professional at Eau Claire Body Care, helping people look and feel their best while keeping the clinic running smoothly. With a health coaching background and a passion for wellness, I thrive on new experiences and personal growth. Outside of work, you’ll find me kayaking, enjoying the water, and savoring great food!

Marcus Stabe

TDS Telecommunications // Associate Manager - Field Marketing marcus.stabe@tdstelecom.com (715) 577-5273 I was born in Eau Claire and raised in Altoona. I am a graduate of the CVTC Business Management program. Before starting my career with TDS in 2022, I spent 13+ years in the industrial distribution market. I love to grill, golf, fish, and volunteer my time when I’m able. I also love spending as much time as possible with family which includes my wife, Nikki, and our three beautiful children ages 8, 6, and 1.

Maxwell Kaiser

Banbury Place // Vice President/Owner max@banbury.com (715) 577-6022 I own and operate Banbury Place and Cigan Properties in Eau Claire with my Dad. I am responsible for the daily operations of our buildings including staff management; tenant relations; maintenance and other project coordination; financials, etc. I graduated from UW-La Crosse in 2015 with degrees in Business Management and Political Science. I am a board member for the Young Professionals of the Chippewa Valley and the Chippewa Valley Museum. I enjoy time with my family, fishing, and golfing.

Directory CLASS OF 2025 Michael Minner

Hope Gospel Mission // Program Manager mike@hopegospelmission.org (715) 529-4566 Michael Minner is the Program Manager and has been with Hope Gospel Mission since 2014. Mike grew up in Western Pennsylvania, met his wife while living in Colorado, and has lived in Eau Claire, Wisconsin since 2006. They currently have four children.

Mike graduated from Chippewa Valley Technical College with an Associate in Applied Science in Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Religion and Christian Ministries from Liberty University.

Michael Strubel

WEAU 13 News // General Sales Manager michael.strubel@weau.com (715) 852-1563 As General Sales Manager at WEAU 13 News, I manage a staff of local sales professionals to help businesses advertise and grow. I have over 20 years of sales experience including leadership roles at Visit Eau Claire, Marshfield Clinic Health System Foundation, and WEAU. I graduated from UWEC with a bachelor’s degree in org comm.

I am honored to serve on the boards of the Family Support Center, YMCA of the Chippewa Valley, and the EC Public Schools Foundation. I am married with 3 daughters.

Nicole Schultz

University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire // Professor schulnic@uwec.edu (715) 379-5489 I am originally from Annandale, MN and studied organizational communication at Winona State (B.A), MSU-Mankato (M.A), and Bowling Green State University in Ohio (Ph.D). I have taught in the Department of Communication & Journalism and the Race, Ethnicity, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Department since 2007. My partner, Adam, and I live in Eau Claire with my 17 year-old pomeranian (Kima) and our one year-old Terrier-mix (Leonard) right down the bike trail from my sister and my niece and nephews.

Directory CLASS OF 2025 Phillip Swiler

Valley Sports Academy // Director - Community Engagement phil.swiler@thesighgroup.com (715) 523-9761 Work For it! I am honored to be part of the business community in Eau Claire and the Chippewa Valley. I am passionate about people, as well as the community that I serve.

I enjoy the journey....

31 years learning my craft as a career people person 27 in Various Technology and 4 years in a Non-Profit 31 years as a Hockey Coach 20 Years as a DJ and Business Owner

Randi Ann McVinnie

BONDS CoWork + Social Club // Owner randi@ecbonds.com (715) 216-5981 Randi Ann McVinnie brings over 15 years of experience in corporate Human Resources and the financial services industry, with a particular focus on insurance.

Her career reflects a commitment to lifelong learning and innovation within her field.

Randi’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish Vault Business Group, a small business consulting firm. In February 2024, she further expanded her business portfolio by opening BONDS CoWork + Social Club in Altoona, WI.

Raven Johnson

Eau Claire County Humane Association // Customer Care Supervisor foster@eccha.org (715) 492-6882 I am an animal lover, if you could not tell by my picture! I have 3 dogs and 2 cats.

Before moving to Eau Claire, my fiancé and I (and our fur babies) traveled around the USA for about 3 years. I have been at ECCHA a little over 1.5 years now. I am the Customer Care Supervisor, overseeing the front desk staff and all adoptions/ surrenders/intakes that may come in. On my days off you can find me on the hiking trails with my fur babies, reading a good book or watching a movie.

Directory CLASS OF 2025 Richard Coates

Wipfli LLP // Manager, Business Solutions richard.coates@wipfli.com (715) 226-2615 Employed as the Service Desk and Technical Operations Center Manager for Wipfli LLP, I have a background in IT Operations Management, Disaster Recovery and Systems Administration. I attended the University of Western Sydney in NSW, Australia, studying Information Technology. I am a Board Member for Literacy Chippewa Valley and a member of the Australian Computer Society. Born in Northern England, I moved to Australia, and then on to the US at the end of 2018 where I happily settled in Eau Claire

Ryan Ludy

United Way of the Greater Chippewa Valley // Executive Director rludy@uwgcv.org (715) 641-0678 My name is Ryan Ludy and I am the Executive Director for United Way of the Greater Chippewa Valley. I am a member of the Young Professionals of the Chippewa Valley, the Eau Claire Noon Rotary, and the Eau Claire Chamber of Commerce Ambassador group. I was previously a “Big” for Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Northwestern Wisconsin, and was an instructor for Junior Achievement of Wisconsin-Northwest Region. I reside in Altoona with my wife, Beth and we have three children, Joseph, Lily and Reagan.

Sarah Goss

Oakwood Hills Animal Hospital // CVT info@oakwoodhillsanimalhospital.com (715) 835-0112 CVT - Have a 11 year old Great Dane and 2 chinchillas - enjoy playing volleyball & gardening.

Directory CLASS OF 2025 Sarah Ross

EO Johnson Business Technologies // Communications Manager sross@eojohnson.com (715) 210-8370 Sarah Ross is the Communications Manager at EO Johnson Business Technologies.

Sarah has a robust background in marketing, communications, and customer service operations. Sarah holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism with an emphasis in public relations and advertising from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She actively volunteers on boards and committees in the community. Residing in Fall Creek with her husband, Sarah has two kids in college and enjoys traveling to national parks.

Violet Kilmurray Ibrahim Uwemi Wellness // CEO

violetkilmurray@gmail.com (715) 338-9781 Violet is the Founder & CEO of Uwemi Wellness where she works as a full spectrum doula & is currently studying to become a midwife. She partners with, works, and volunteers for a variety of other organizations locally, nationally, and internationally.

She is an active member of the Altoona mosque. Her most important roles are muslim, mom, wife, daughter, sister, and friend.

Executive Team CLASS OF 2025

James Songster

Emerging Leader Training For nearly three decades James trained Walt Disney World Cast Members and in 2014 was a recipient of the prestigious Disney Legacy Award. His career, and established expertise, in the delivery of education programs on the subject of Emerging Leadership training have made him highly sought after by universities, colleges and organizations looking to improve the skills of their own emerging leaders.

Simultaneously, as a multi award winning performer in the U.S. and abroad, James has built a career as a magician with a gift for creating magical memories exclusively for families and family events. Today, James creates a specialized series of seminars and workshops combining his knowledge of Disney training and operating philosophies, with his love of Magic, to deliver highly engaging and impactful training opportunities.

Sue Shank

Emerging Leader Training A lifetime commitment to continuing education, skills training and professional development has taken Sue Schank from public school classrooms, to over 27 years as a Disney leader, dedicated to using the vast resources of Disney World to further educate, develop and inspire Disney Guests of all ages, and Disney Cast Members. As a Walt Disney World Training and Development Leader with both Park Operations and Disney’s Education Team, my primary focus was on creating an intensive training program for facilitators, and a unique performance coaching process to ensure continued growth and consistent quality. She also developed content for multiple aspects of leadership skills, team work techniques, creativity, organizational culture, and specific-focus staff development topics which were delivered to executive leadership teams, front-line facilitators, and Cast Members across Walt Disney World property and internationally.

Barbara O. Blake

Emerging Leader Training Barbara Blake had a 42-year career with The Walt Disney Company and retired in 2020 as department head of academics for Disney’s Performing Arts and Education Programs.

Her career was mainly in educational management of youth programming and/or facilitation in leadership programs. During her tenure, she also worked for four years with the Walt Disney Imagineering division as an education liaison (a public relations position), and for nine years, Barbara facilitated and then managed the Disney Educator Series (discontinued in 1996), professional development programs offered to educators and education administrators in the areas of marketing, enhancing classroom presentation skills, and educational leadership.

Executive Team CLASS OF 2025

David Minor

Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce // President & CEO minor@eauclairechamber.org (715) 858-0612 I have spent the past 34 years in the Chamber Industry, and if I had to do it all over again, I wouldn’t change a thing. Well, there was that one day on July 18th, 2015, when I fell in my head, but that’s a story for another day. The main reason I love working at a Chamber is we have a unique opportunity to help shape and change our community more than any other organization or individual. We say, “Chambers represent X number of businesses, but in reality, it is the number of employees’ lives that we impact every day that truly matters.

This quote from Walt Disney keeps me grounded and always looking forward: “Around here, however, we don’t look backwards for very long. We keep moving forward, opening new doors and doing new things, because we’re curious, and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.”

Kaitlyn Molis

Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce // Director of Education & Young Professionals molis@eauclairechamber.org (715) 858-0614 Kaitlyn Molis is the Director of Educaion and Young Professionals for the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce. She is responsible for developing and coordinating various educational programs and events, including Leadership Eau Claire™, Youth Leadership Eau Claire, Leadership 2.0 and the Young Professionals of the Chippewa Valley. Kaitlyn received Associate’s Degrees in Marketing and Digital Marketing from Chippewa Valley Technical College. She spent two years with the Chamber as an intern while studying at CVTC and is thrilled to be working in this roll, connecting daily with the business community full time. Kaitlyn enjoys sand volleyball, yoga, walks, playing piano, and spending time with her family and friends!