TITLE: PRESIDENT & CEO ORGANIZATION: CAPITAL CREDIT UNION
As a lifelong resident of Green Bay and an executive of the largest credit union home officed in Green Bay it is imperative to understand the direction and also to support the economic, business, and strategic direction of the Chamber and therefore it was important to accept the Board invitation.
NAME: JOEL J. HANSEN
TITLE: CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER ORGANIZATION: POMP’S TIRE SERVICE, INC.
The Economic Development Board has provided an opportunity to give back to the community that I was raised in and that I raise my family in while interacting with other professionals with similar goals and motivations. As a team we are able to have a greater impact, and I am able to gain more knowledge about the community and economic development while adding my perspective.
the region’s economic future. As someone who works closely with business attraction, workforce mobility, and regional connectivity through Green Bay International Airport, I saw an opportunity to contribute a unique perspective while collaborating with other community leaders who are equally invested in Green Bay’s growth and long-term success.
NAME: TROY D. PARR
TITLE: COMMUNITY & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT – DIVISION DIRECTOR
ORGANIZATION: ONEIDA NATION
I enjoy the opportunity to serve the Greater Green Bay Community by being an approachable willing community development connector for business, government, and the Chamber – to a Federally Recognized Federal Sovereign Native Nation that co-exists within some of the same territory that we all enjoy. I believe we (the Oneida Nation) are a vital part of regional economy and enjoy the opportunity to engage in responsible regionalism connectivity with all other parts of the greater economy surrounding our Sovereign Nation. Thank you for the opportunity to serve.
NAME: ROBYN GRUNER
TITLE: DIRECTOR OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS ORGANIZATION: AT&T
I was inspired to join the Economic Development Board because of its outstanding reputation within the community. The board’s dynamic leadership and positive impact on the region were immediately evident. I wanted to be part of the exciting momentum in Greater Green Bay, contribute to its continued growth, and connect with other professionals who are equally passionate about making a difference.
I am honored to join the Partners in Education Board. My passion for education runs deep, influenced by my parents who were both dedicated teachers. I have witnessed firsthand the remarkable impact they had on their students and the community they served. This experience has instilled in me a profound appreciation for the role education plays in shaping our future.
Board of Directors
The Greater Green Bay Chamber Board of Directors consists of community leaders who guide the organization’s direction and long-term impact. They provide governance and oversight by setting goals, approving the budget, and ensuring alignment with the Chamber’s mission, while supporting a strong, thriving business community.
The Partners in Education Advisory Board unites business, nonprofit, and education leaders to strengthen connections that benefit students and the regional workforce. It fosters collaboration and advances initiatives that expand opportunities for learners across Northeastern Wisconsin, supporting student success and long-term economic vitality.
The Economic Development Advisory Board brings together business, community, and municipal leaders across Brown County to help advance the community’s Strategic Plan. Members offer expertise and collaboration to support initiatives that drive regional growth and strengthen economic vitality in Greater Green Bay.
NAME: MARK WELLE
LEADERSHIP, FULL CIRCLE
Reflections
from Chamber
President and CEO, Lara L. Fritts
Leadership rarely starts with a title. More often, it starts with a place.
For me, that place is Green Bay. Three months into my role as President and CEO of the Greater Green Bay Chamber, I often have been reminded just how much a community can shape a person—and how those lessons stay with you, no matter where life takes you. Long before my career led me around the country, I was a student at Green Bay Southwest High School listening to representatives from Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) who volunteered for an after-school program called Junior Achievement. It was designed for students who were curious about business and leadership. At the time, I had no idea how important that moment would become.
Through Junior Achievement, my classmates and I built companies from the ground up. We sold stock, made products, marketed them, and worked to turn a profit. Along the way, I learned what it really means to work as a team and make decisions that affect more than just yourself. One of my Junior Achievement mentors, Mike Mears, an internal auditor at WPS, introduced me to WordPerfect and Lotus 1-2-3, new software programs that were transforming business at the time. Wanting to build those skills, I enrolled in classes at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College and then put that training to work as a co-op student in the Brown County Clerk of Courts office during my senior year of high school. Being a co-op student allowed me to have real world accounting experience that gave me the skills to work in an accounting firm while earning my bachelor’s degree as a first-generation college student.
Not long after completing my master’s degree at UWMilwaukee, I received a postcard in the mail with a job posting taped to the back and a handwritten note that simply said,
“Love, Dad.” That job was to lead On Broadway, Inc. as its first executive director. Having started Junior Achievement companies gave me the understanding of how to begin this very important endeavor. Former Chamber board member Cole Buergi of Kane Communications was my first ever employee.
Starting On Broadway opened the door to the next chapter of my career where at 26 years old, I launched the Greater Rockville Partnership, an economic development organization serving a suburban community outside Washington, D.C. From there I went on to start other organizations and worked with elected officials across five states—all of which was possible because of the foundation built here in Green Bay.
Over the years, my work took me away from Green Bay, but my home and community never left me. I had the chance to lead organizations through growth and change, alongside boards, teams and community partners across the country.
Every role taught me something new. Yet, no matter where I went, I stayed grounded in the experiences and leadership values I learned here. When tough decisions came up, I thought about fairness, transparency and the long-term impact of those choices. When change was necessary, I remembered how important it was to lead with authenticity. And when success followed, I was reminded of the most important lesson I learned through Junior Achievement: Leadership is never a solo effort. Nobody leads alone.
Coming home to Green Bay now has been both grounding and energizing. These first months have been about listening and meeting with staff, members, partners and community leaders to understand the Chamber’s history and what makes it strong. The answer is clear: our members. You are at the center of everything we do, and you guide every decision we make.
Looking ahead, I’m excited about what we will accomplish together. The Greater Green Bay Chamber has deep roots and a mission that matters. The Chamber doesn’t just offer programs and services we bring people together, build talent, support our business growth and make a positive impact on the community as a whole. In the months ahead, we will focus on alignment, clarifying priorities and building off the great work of the leaders before me. That responsibility feels especially meaningful here, in the place that first taught me what leadership really looks like.
On a personal note, these first three months have reinforced something I’ve believed for a long time: Leadership has a way of coming full circle. This wonderful community that helped launch my journey has now trusted me with the opportunity to serve in a new way. That trust means a great deal to me, and I don’t take it lightly. Coming home has been meaningful. Leading here is a privilege I truly believe the best chapters of the Greater Green Bay Chamber’s story are still ahead.
Every year, Chamber Young Professionals (CYP) recognizes excellence in action through the Future 15 & Young Professional Awards. The Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award celebrates a local business leader making positive contributions to our community through their vision and drive. It goes beyond financial success to recognize their innovation, leadership and entrepreneurial spirit. Join us in celebrating Amanda Miceli as the recipient of the 2026 Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award.
Amanda is on a personal mission to inspire and assist people in being their most authentic self. She does this through being an entrepreneur, creative, fashion designer, and speaker. She is the Founder & CEO of The BOLD Marketing Agency, BOLD EVENTS, and [ASK BOLD QUESTIONS], where they ignite human connection through authentic branding and intentional gatherings.
She is building more than just businesses, though; She’s building a movement, a BOLD one. From educational workshops to ladies’ cigar nights and annual fashion shows, Amanda brings the community together through unique and intentional experiences. Freedom, creativity, community, authenticity and making BOLD moves are just some of the values that guide her path as an entrepreneur.
Amanda leads a fully remote creative team that operates beyond the limits of a traditional business setting. She believes creativity looks different for everyone. With this in mind, she curates a supportive work environment where her team is free to explore and experiment.
Amanda and her team truly care about community and growth. They approach professional partnerships in a unique fashion, rooted in truly understanding each other. Amanda and her team use a plethora of tools, resources, and partnerships to support that every client, partner, team member, and more receive a tailored, one-of-a-kind experience guided by maximized strengths - to create a space that shines a spotlight on everyone’s superpowers and authenticity.
YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR
She looks at the impact she has made in Greater Green Bay through collaboration and genuine human connection very fondly. Amanda works hard to inspire the next generation of changemakers, often visiting local students to share her experiences, engaging in learning others’ stories, providing industry insights, handing out free resources, and more. She is passionate about showing everyone that they can create their own future through innovation, curiosity, and creative thinking. Amanda is proof of what is possible, that living authentically with a big vision—a BOLD vision—can ignite authenticity and human connection.
“I want to do business with people that have similar values, especially when it comes to my legal representation.”
Tim Daanen
President/Owner, B & D Warehouse
At Ruder Ware, we believe in building solid relationships based on shared values, as we have with B & D Warehouse. Our attorneys are committed to helping navigate legal challenges with confidence and integrity.
THIS IS HOW BEING ON A CHAMBER BOARD HAS...
NAME: BRIAN STENZEL
TITLE: SENIOR DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
ORGANIZATION: FESTIVAL FOODS
NAME: SARAH BURDETTE
TITLE: ADMINISTRATOR
ORGANIZATION: VILLAGE OF LEDGEVIEW Serving on the Greater Green Bay Chamber Economic Development Board has allowed me to connect directly with the people building our regional economy. I’ve learned a lot, formed trusted relationships, and found new ways and ideas to support Ledgeview priorities with business needs. It’s made me a better listener, a better problem-solver, and an overall better partner in the region.
NAME: CAROL KARLS
TITLE: PRECONSTRUCTION & CLIENT SERVICE
ORGANIZATION: IMMEL CONSTRUCTION
NAME: MARK GRAUL TITLE: OWNER
ORGANIZATION: STRATEGY GROUP
NAME: MISSY SCHMELING
TITLE: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
NAME: SUSAN SELNER
TITLE: VILLAGE PRESIDENT
ORGANIZATION: VILLAGE OF DENMARK
I have met so many individuals that have been willing to share their experiences and expertise. The Greater Green Bay Chamber has provided so much statistical data that helps me plan for the future in my community.
ORGANIZATION: ENCOMPASS EARLY EDUCATION AND CARE, INC. Serving on the Partners in Education Board has increased my engagement with the broader Chamber network and strengthened relationships that directly impact early childhood education in our region. One highlight was being recognized by the Chamber as the Large Growth Business Award recipient last year. It was a meaningful acknowledgment of the dedication of our team and our commitment to expanding high quality early
Between homework deadlines, practices, club meetings and time with friends, life as a high school sophomore rarely slows down. Yet that has not stopped 29 Brown County students from adding one more commitment to their calendars, coming together one day each month during the school year for Teen Leadership, a program of the Greater Green Bay Chamber.
“It looks really good on college applications,” said Amelia Amenson. “I just thought it would be a good opportunity to meet new people and learn.”
Amenson is homeschooled and credits Teen Leadership for helping her expand her network while she learns about her community in a new way: “All of the speakers have had great opinions and perspectives to share. I love that we have themed days.”
Throughout the program, students explore topics that include local history, government, economic development, wellness and the environment.
“I think it’s very empowering to listen to all of these different groups and different organizations,” said Max Ashmann, a Teen Leadership participant from Ashwaubenon High School.
Each Teen Leadership session day also includes a community impact project for the students to complete together. Through hands-on experiences, they grow as leaders and discover their power to make a meaningful difference.
“Honestly, I don’t know much about how to help in the community,” said Ashmann. “I wanted to learn about how I can help more and where I can help more.”
“When we teach young people how to lead with empathy, take initiative and turn ideas into action, we are not just preparing them for college or careers,” said Carla Zellmer, K-12 Program Manager at the Greater Green Bay Chamber. “We are preparing them to strengthen their communities. These are skills they don’t always learn in a traditional classroom, but they’re essential for creating change.”
BUILDING THE NEXT GENERATION OF COMMUNITY LEADERS
For one of the projects, students decorated bags for the Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) of Brown County. Their fun designs and positive notes would brighten the day for hundreds of older adults throughout Brown County who received home delivered meals in those very bags.
“We were excited to partner with the Teen Leadership program to spread positivity across our community,” Katie McAllister, Communications Manager at ADRC of Brown County. “The experience was meaningful for everyone. Teens learned the impact of community service, and older adults received both nourishment and encouragement.”
Throughout the Teen Leadership program, students also work in small groups to complete a larger community impact project of their choice.
Amenson’s group has raised more than $1,000 to buy items for people experiencing homelessness that they will hand out as kits also filled with handwritten notes of encouragement. Ashmann’s group is working with the YWCA to host a family game night for all ages that will include volleyball, badminton and pizza.
Each group will share a presentation about their project at Teen Leadership graduation in May.
We can make memories on vacation AND in a bigger home.
HANNAH’S STORY
While I never really struggled to make ends meet, I knew I had to manage my money better when I took on a bigger role in my godchildren’s lives. With Summit’s help, I paid down my debt and built a savings plan, and now we’re taking a family cruise and steps toward a bigger home.
More than a contractor. A Commitment.
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When results matter, partner with the professionals who stand behind them. Hire Union.
— HANNAH, LIFELONG MEMBER
TITLE:
RYAN KRUMRIE TITLE: ATTORNEY
ORGANIZATION: HAGER, DEWICK & ZUENGLER, S.C.
• On Broadway, Inc. - Board Member
• The National Railroad Museum
NAME: INGA ARENDT
TITLE: PARTNER
ORGANIZATION: WIPFLI, LLP
NAME BRAD CHARAPATA
TITLE: VICE PRESIDENT, RELATIONSHIP MANAGER
ORGANIZATION: BMO COMMERCIAL BANK
• The Volunteer Center of Brown County - Past President and Current Board Member
• Green Bay Botanical Garden - Board Member
• Boys & Girls Clubs of the Bay & Lakes Region - Board Trustee
NAME: LUKE GORAL
TITLE: DISTRICT ADMINISTRATOR
ORGANIZATION: DENMARK SCHOOL DISTRICT
• OneDenmark Board - Vice President
• Denmark Wrestling Club
• Denmark Baseball & Softball Association
• Greater Green Bay Figure Skating Club - Board Member
• The YWCA - Finance Committee
• The Management Women - Membership Committee
NAME: CHAD WIEGAND
TITLE: EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT,CHIEF RISK OFFICER & GENERAL COUNSEL
ORGANIZATION: SCHREIBER FOODS, INC.
• Partners in Education (PIE) Board
• Freedom House
• Habitat for Humanity
NEXT GENERATION BEST PLACE TO WORK
Every year, Chamber Young Professionals (CYP) recognizes excellence in action through the Future 15 & Young Professional Awards. Next Generation Best Place to Work honors a business that champions young professionals by fostering growth, embracing policies that promote work-life balance, valuing generational diversity, and driving innovative strategies to attract and retain top young talent. Join us in celebrating Packer Fastener as the 2026 Next Generation Best Place to Work
The phrase “family first” is not just a slogan at Packer Fastener; it’s a shared value that guides how team members lead and support each other every single day. This is made clear in their friendly, personal work environment, where family members often stop by for a visit. Sometimes, those visits turn into career opportunities, as many Packer Fastener team members work alongside their spouses, siblings, cousins, and children.
In-person collaboration is a core part of their culture as well. The corporate headquarters includes an on-site gym and golf simulator and currently has plans to build batting cages
and a half basketball court for team members and families to use. Additionally, the Industrial Athlete Program gives every team member access to custom workout programs, free at-home fitness packages, gym reimbursements, and monthly fitness incentives. Packer Fastener values the motto “work hard, play hard”, believing that people perform at their best when they feel supported.
Attracting and retaining talent at Packer Fastener happens by creating value and opportunity for team members, customers, and communities. Partnerships with local schools, technical colleges, and universities build a greater awareness of career opportunities. Youth apprentices and summer helpers gain practical work experience in the warehouses while working their way towards full-time employment
Team members have access to structured development at every stage through the Team Playbook. These three tiers of training offer support from foundational onboarding to advanced leadership training. Project teams are crossfunctional and cross-generational, and are anchored by the organization’s “Swagger”, a shared set of beliefs that guide the hiring process and team accountability. By investing in their team members, Packer Fastener empowers their people to grow as individuals and ensures that the organization thrives from the inside out.
Hear from Melinda
A Chamber membership fuels growth, talent and impact.
DIGITAL BADGE NOW AVAILABLE FOR LEADERSHIP GREEN BAY ALUMNI
Since 1985, more than 1,600 community leaders have graduated from Leadership Green Bay. Now, a new partnership between the Greater Green Bay Chamber and the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay (UWGB) provides this extensive alumni network with a digital credential they can proudly display as professionals.
“Our partnership with the Greater Green Bay Chamber reflects our shared commitment to strengthening the region’s leadership pipeline and ensuring employers clearly understand the depth and quality behind the experience,” said Jess Lambrecht, Executive Officer of the Division of Continuing Education & Workforce Training at UWGB. “Supporting this effort was important to UWGB because when higher education and business work together, we amplify impact, elevate credibility, and create stronger pathways between community leadership and workforce success.”
UWGB continues to lead in making learning and leadership development visible through innovative credentialing. By introducing digital badging to a long-standing program like Leadership Green Bay, the partnership enhances the value of the alumni network while reinforcing the shared investment in curriculum, community engagement, and professional development.
Education forms the foundation of a vibrant, evolving community. At Miron Construction, we believe that when students have access to modern, adaptable learning environments, they’re better prepared to develop the critical skills employers need. By fostering the next generation of local talent, we also shape the long-term economic vitality and business success across the region. Together, we’re Building Excellence.
“In today’s workforce, verified credentials matter,” said Nikki Schneider, Director of Talent & Education at the Greater Green Bay Chamber. “Through this partnership, we are equipping alumni with digital badges that validate their completion of the Leadership Green Bay program and make their community leadership visible to employers and institutions. It’s a critical step toward advancing career mobility and longterm success.”
The Leadership Green Bay Alumni Digital Badge can be shared on LinkedIn, in email signatures, and across professional profiles, showcasing a commitment to community leadership and lifelong growth. More than a symbol of program completion, the badge communicates the skills, perspectives, and experience gained through a rigorous and respected leadership program.
The badge also provides employers and community partners with clearer insight into what the Leadership Green Bay experience represents and the value alumni bring to the workforce. In addition, it allows the Chamber to gather alumni career information and build a stronger story about the program’s long-term impact across the region.
This initiative reflects the evolving expectations of today’s workforce, particularly Gen Z professionals, who value stackable credentials and shareable digital recognition. Together, the Chamber and UWGB are strengthening the connection between community leadership and regional workforce success, underscoring that meaningful learning continues well beyond graduation.
“Over my career I have accumulated a lot of different perspectives on leadership. The top ones that have stayed with me include:
• Always keep learning, whether it’s work related or personal, always learn or try something new.
• Change usually means growth – don’t be afraid of it.
• Admit your mistakes when they happen and develop a team that does the same.”
Lorrie Jacobetti
“Do not let perfection be the enemy of the good’. Often, we can strive to get the perfect solutions at what can be a very high cost, with higher complexity, or even unachievable in lieu of steadily improving steadily and immediately.”
Michael Baumgardt
“Continue to do the right thing and positive results will follow.”
Ryan Krumrie
“Remain humble and hungry.“
Chad Wiegand
A mentor once told me to remember that
“The best advice is to be willing to take a chance when you truly believe in the mission, build it and they will come philosophy. This has shaped how I lead and make decisions and it reminds me that effective leadership requires courage and strategic vision. Being able to see what doesn’t exist and take thoughtful, intention steps toward it. When you believe deeply in the mission and act as a champion for the work, others will be inspired to join you.
This combination of belief, strategy, and advocacy has allowed me to move big ideas forward, strengthen partnerships, and create meaningful impact for children, families, and our community.”
Missy Schmeling
“The best advice I’ve received is that effective leadership is about listening first. Taking the time to understand different perspectives leads to better decisions, stronger relationships, and more sustainable outcomes, especially when working toward shared community goals.”
Marty Piette
“Many years ago, I asked a highly respected businesswoman for her best advice on business and leadership. She told me, “Always do what you say you will do.” That simple, powerful guidance has resonated with me ever since. I strive to uphold that standard in every aspect of my professional and personal life.”
Robyn Gruner
“Lead with purpose, integrity, and inspiration. But I also like “be the person your dog thinks you are!”
Brad Toll
“I try to listen and learn from various sources, appreciate different perspective, take highlights, mix it all up, and continuously learn and develop a deeper perspective to guide me through an evolution of my career.”
Joel Hansen
“Always be the student in the room.” No matter how much experience you have, there is always someone who knows more about a specific topic than you do. I never stop asking questions in order to learn. Serving on this board has been a great reminder of that; I learn something new from my fellow members at every single meeting.”
Carol Karls
“The best advice I received was that leadership is not about having all the answers, but about asking the right questions and empowering others to succeed.”
Travis Coenen
The best advice I’ve received in business is to be your authentic self. Leading with openness and honesty builds trust, strengthens relationships and creates better outcomes.
Charlene Johnson
“The best advice I have received is to lead with clarity, humility, and service. Effective leadership is not about having all the answers, but about creating the conditions where people can do their best work, stay focused on purpose, and make decisions that serve others, especially students and communities who rely on our systems to work well.”
Aaron Malczewski
“Relationships are what matter most to people.”
Bryan Hyska
“Being a leader does not mean doing everything yourself. It is more important to provide the vision and direction that enables others to succeed. Sharing your knowledge and mentoring others will keep your organization growing. Always keep learning and listening.”
Susan Selner
“The best piece of leadership advice I’ve ever received is that running a successful organization will always start with the people. Tools and trends will change, but building an engaged, humancentered organization matters far more than staying on the cutting edge of every innovation. Focusing on people first is what ultimately drives strong teams, lasting impact, and longterm success.”
