ANNUAL COMMUNITY
IMPACT REPORT 2025-2026
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE This year’s annual report centers on IMPACT. The impact of Lakeshore College is not only what happens in our classrooms, but what happens because we are here. More than 8,000 students turn to Lakeshore each year to build skills, earn degrees, and create new opportunities for themselves and their families. This year, our Foundation awarded more than $700,000 in scholarships, helping over 550 students take the next step toward a better future. We continue to respond to the needs of our communities and employers. The addition of our $1.4 million dental lab and Dental Hygienist program helped drive more than a 30% increase in health care program enrollment, preparing more professionals to serve communities where access to care is critical. More than 220 apprentices trained in our innovative learning spaces, building the skills needed in electrical, maintenance, and machining careers that keep our local economy moving. And Lakeshore’s impact reaches beyond the students we serve. Through hundreds of partnerships with employers, we listen and develop the talent they need to help our region remain competitive and strong. These are just a few examples of what happens because Lakeshore is here. I invite you to explore the stories and accomplishments throughout this Annual Community Impact Report to see the many ways our students, employees, partners, and alumni are making a difference. For more than 100 years, we have helped people build better lives, strengthened the workforce, and contributed to the vitality of our communities. We are proud of the impact we have made together, and we are ready to make an even greater impact in the years ahead.
Paul Carlsen, PhD President
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lakeshore.edu | 920.693.1000
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REPORT TO OUR COMMUNIT Y | 2025 -2026
8 FAST FACTS OF IMPACT
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Lakeshore graduates earn more! $62,395 is the median salary of Lakeshore associate degree graduates, exceeding the national median of associate degree graduates by $5,247.
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More than 8,000 students were enrolled in Lakeshore’s 65 career programs last year.
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Lakeshore graduates stay local. 99% of graduates are employed locally in the state of Wisconsin.
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91% of Lakeshore graduates are employed within six months of graduation.
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398 top industry leaders guide our curriculum and serve on advisory committees.
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96% of Lakeshore graduates are satisfied or highly satisfied with their training.
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Lakeshore contributes an estimated $167.2 million annually to the economy. The College is both a major provider of higher education and a supplier of skilled workers to regional industries. Lakeshore College covers about 1,200 square miles, including Manitowoc and Sheboygan counties and portions of Calumet and Ozaukee counties.
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BUILDING BRIGHTER SMILES: NEW DENTAL L AB AND DENTAL HYGIENE PROGRAM
With the opening of a new $1.4 million Dental Lab and launch of a Dental Hygiene program, Lakeshore College is making a significant investment in student success and community health. Featuring modern equipment and hands-on learning spaces, the facility will prepare future dental professionals with the skills and experience needed to succeed in today’s workforce. As graduates enter local dental practices, clinics, and healthcare organizations, the program will help meet the growing demand for qualified dental assistants and hygienists while expanding access to quality oral healthcare throughout the region. This exciting addition reflects the College’s commitment to workforce development, educational excellence, and strengthening the communities it serves —one smile at a time.
INTERESTING FACT When the Dental Hygienist program launched in July 2026, the program reached enrollment capacity in 23 minutes.
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ADVANCING THE FUTURE OF MANUFACTURING
Soon, Lakeshore College will begin building a transformative 17,000 square-foot Advanced Manufacturing Center. This $10 million investment will fuel the future of our region’s workforce and economy. Designed with state-of-the-art equipment mirroring today’s advanced manufacturing environments, the Center will provide students with hands-on experience using the same technologies they will encounter in the workplace. This industry-aligned training will prepare graduates to meet the evolving needs of local employers while strengthening the talent pipeline that drives regional economic growth. The new Advanced Manufacturing Center will position Lakeshore College as a leader in advanced manufacturing education across Wisconsin.
Industry Input Welcome! Lakeshore College values collaboration with the communities and
industries we serve. We welcome input throughout every stage of the Advanced Manufacturing Center’s development. Whether your organization is interested in sharing expertise or exploring partnership opportunities, we want to connect. Reach out to Courtney Phillippi, Director of The Lakeshore Foundation, at courtney.phillippi@lakeshore.edu. REPORT TO OUR COMMUNIT Y | 2025 -2026
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FUTURES START HERE
At Lakeshore College, exploring future careers begins well before high school graduation. Students of all ages gain a better understanding of existing occupations while attending our summer camps, exploration days, and specialized events. By connecting with educators and exploring real-world opportunities, students can turn their passions into meaningful career paths and take important steps toward a successful future. For information on future events, sign up for the Lakeshore Community Email Newsletter at lakeshore.edu.
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REPORT TO OUR COMMUNIT Y | 2025 -2026
STUDENTS TAKE THE LEAP TO COLLEGE WITH LENNY’S LEAP Planning for life after high school starts sooner than you think—and there are smart ways to get ahead. Lenny’s Leap at Lakeshore College is a dual enrollment program that helps students earn college credit while still in high school, creating clear, studentcentered pathways toward a degree or career. Some students even complete a credential by the time they graduate high school. Through Lenny’s Leap, students from 31 high schools can take college-level courses that may also count toward high school graduation requirements. Even better, many of the credits earned transfer to other colleges and universities, including Lakeshore College. Students explore their career potential through a defined pathway.
High schoolers can start their pathway to a bachelor’s degree.
Lenny’s Leap provides cost savings toward college.
The same academic resources and support services are available to both high school and Lakeshore College students.
Visit lakeshore.edu/lennys-leap to watch the Lenny’s Leap video, explore dual credit options, and hear how students are leaping ahead.
IMPACT “Getting dual credit through Lakeshore College helped me pave my future while I was still in high school. All of the staff were great and very easy to reach out to. I earned my Introduction to Industrial Welding Certification through Lakeshore while taking dual credit courses. Having an opportunity like this is something every high school should offer their students.” -Trevin Heller, Kiel High School
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L AKESHORE COLLEGE FOUNDATION CELEBRATES 50 YEARS Founded in 1976, the Lakeshore College Foundation raises nearly $1 million per year to support Lakeshore College students. Funds raised contribute toward student scholarships, emergency grants, and capital enhancements like our $6 million Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin Center for Health Care Excellence. This year marks the Lakeshore College Foundation’s 50th Anniversary. For five decades, the Lakeshore College Foundation has helped students access education, build rewarding careers, and strengthen our community. Through the generosity of donors, we have opened doors to opportunity, supported workforce development, and invested in the success of thousands of students. As we celebrate this milestone, we invite you to discover the stories behind the impact—and join us in helping shape the next 50 years. Join our $50 for 50 Years Campaign by donating $50 or more in honor of serving students for 50 years. Reach out to Courtney Phillippi, Director of The Lakeshore Foundation, at courtney.phillippi@lakeshore.edu or visit lakeshore.edu/foundation50.
INTERESTING FACT 248 students were awarded scholarships totaling almost $1 million, with 64% receiving a full ride.
I myself was a first-generation college student. My parents did not go on to formal education, so because of supporters and donors I was able to further my education and set myself up a little better in the world. -Elizabeth Benicke ‘19 & ‘23 8
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LAKESHORE COLLEGE FOUNDATION BOARD MEMBERS Jesse Brotz Plastics Engineering Company Human Resources Manager Chair Ryan Neville Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity Sponsored Ministries, Inc. President & CEO Vice-Chair Mike McEvoy Sargento Foods, Retired Co-Treasurer Eric Grasse Third Coast Wealth Advisors Senior Partner Co-Treasurer Paul Carlsen, PhD Lakeshore College President Ex Officio Dave Aldag Aldag Honold Mechanical, Inc. Chairperson of the Board Don Hammond Sr. Merit Financial Advisors Vice President/Managing Partner
Sister Jane Kinate Franciscan Music Center, Inc. Administrator Mike Mrdjenovich Hub International, Ltd. President Retired Ross Niemi The Metal Ware Corporation Executive Vice President and COO Randall Roethel Principal Financial Group Senior Agent Jodi Schoerner Master Gallery Foods, Inc. CFO Nick Siler Burger Boat Company President & CEO Jordan Simons BEMIS Manufacturing CIO Paul Weaver Project 4 Services Business Developer Cassie Zinkel Kohler Company Sr. Manager Talent Acquisition REPORT TO OUR COMMUNIT Y | 2025 -2026
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DISHING UP EXCELLENCE: INSTRUCTOR AND CHEF RECEIVES TOP EDUCATION AWARD Chef Amanda Weber was recognized by the American Association of Community Colleges as a Dale P. Parnell Distinguished Faculty. She is the only faculty member in Wisconsin to be recognized for this achievement in 2026. Weber is a Culinary Institute of America graduate whose experience spans New York City kitchens and Destination Kohler’s five-star resort. She creates hands-on learning experiences that feel authentic, relevant, and aligned with industry expectations. She opens her labs and organizes peer-study groups, so students have a place to practice, ask questions, and feel supported. The Dale P. Parnell Distinguished Faculty Award is presented by the American Association of Community Colleges. The award recognizes faculty members who make a significant difference in the classroom and contribute to the broader mission of community colleges, emphasizing studentcentered teaching, academic innovation, and leadership within their institutions and communities. With Weber’s recognition, Lakeshore has had a total of eight faculty members receive this prestigious award: Dave Saunders (2018, Welding), Paul Benfield (2019, IT Networking), Jeremy Pagel (2021, Sociology), Sarah Bornemann (2022, Web/Software Design), Dr. Julie Konik (2023, Psychology), Kelly Konrath (2024, Math) and Mark Lorier (2025, Machine Tool/CNC).
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CONNECTING WITH OUR COMMUNITIES At Lakeshore College, learning extends beyond the classroom through a strong commitment to serving our communities. Throughout the year, our students and staff volunteer their time, talents, and energy to support organizations, events, and community initiatives throughout the region. These experiences provide opportunities to put skills into practice, build meaningful connections, and make a positive impact beyond campus. By giving back and working alongside community partners, Lakeshore students and staff help strengthen the communities we’re proud to serve.
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MISSION AND VISION MISSION Transform individuals to strengthen our communities through innovative and accessible learning. VISION The community’s driver for individual, social, cultural, and economic vitality.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Monica Nichter
Don Pohlman
Belinda Esquinas
John Wyatt
Curt Brauer
Chairperson
Vice Chairperson
Secretary/Treasurer
Additional Member
Employee Member
Dr. Mike Trimberger
Abbey Quistorf
Mary Parrish
Logan Rooney
School District Administrator Member
Employer Member
Employee Member
Additional Member
IMPACT For nine years, Kim Rooney shared her leadership, insight, and commitment with Lakeshore College and the communities we serve. Her thoughtful guidance helped shape the College through important milestones, including our transition to Lakeshore College and reaffirmation with the Higher Learning Commission. We are grateful for the lasting impact she has made and wish her all the best in her next chapter.
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NEW PROGRAMS AT L AKESHORE
Dental Hygiene Students earn an associate degree while gaining hands-on experience preparing for careers as dental hygienists in our new, state-of-the-art dental clinic.
Manufacturing and Industrial Principles Students gain handson skills in machining, robotics, fabrication, and industrial maintenance, while earning a technical diploma in two semesters.
AI Data Specialist
Truck Driving
Students earn an associate degree in Digital Technology designed to prepare graduates for careers at the intersection of artificial intelligence, data, and technology.
Students earn their Class A CDL in just eight weeks through this ninecredit technical diploma program. Led by expert faculty, the program provides hands-on training with campus supplied semi trucks.
AWARDS AND ACCOL ADES 2025 ECONOMIC DRIVER OF THE YEAR
Lakeshore College received an honorable mention for workforce training and program expansion under the Economic Accelerator of the Year category
Awarded Sheboygan County Economic Development Corporation’s 2025 Economic Driver of the Year Award
Earned Military Friendly School Award, making this the 17th consecutive year of being recognized as Military Friendly
Ranked Number 2 for TwoYear Colleges in Wisconsin by WalletHub
Granted Provisional Accreditation by the American Welding Society (AWS) for AWS Certification of Welders and Accreditation of Test Facilities
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EXPANDING TRANSFER PARTNERSHIPS Beginning this fall, Lakeland University is providing a student services space directly on the Lakeshore College Cleveland campus, making the path from an associate degree to a bachelor’s degree more seamless than ever. Through this new on-campus partnership, Lakeshore College students can complete their associate degree and easily transition to Lakeland University to continue their bachelor’s degree.
STUDENTS STAY LOCAL AND SAVE MONEY EARNING A BACHELOR’S DEGREE In 2025, Lakeshore College partnered with the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay to provide students with an affordable and convenient pathway to a bachelor’s degree while allowing them to stay in the Sheboygan area through the FORWARD program. Students begin by earning an associate degree at Lakeshore College and then seamlessly transfer to UW–Green Bay to complete their bachelor’s degree in nursing, education, psychology, or business. Classes are offered locally at the Sheboygan campus, as well as online, giving students flexibility while reducing the cost and challenges of traveling farther from home for a four-year degree.
NEW SHEBOYGAN CAMPUS LOCATION In 2025, Lakeshore College’s Sheboygan Campus co-located with the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay. This Sheboygan County facility offers a wide variety of learning opportunities and resources whether students are looking to take a college course, enter the FORWARD program, attend a Workforce Seminar training, or meet on-site with an academic counselor. New Address Lakeshore College - Sheboygan 1 University Drive, Sheboygan, WI 53081 1.888.468.6582 | 920.693.1000
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WORKFORCE SOLUTIONS Lakeshore College’s Workforce Solutions provides customized education and training designed to help local businesses and their employees develop the skills needed to succeed in today’s changing workforce. Through flexible training options, professional development, apprenticeships, and customized programs, Workforce Solutions partners with employers to address specific workplace needs and prepare employees for new opportunities.
IMPACT ON REGIONAL BUSINESS 2,732 employees were served through contract training and seminars. 108 businesses contracted with Lakeshore College for specialized training. 80 businesses sponsored apprentices in five industrial trade sectors: industrial electrician, machinist, tool and die, maintenance/mechanic millwright, and maintenance technician. YOUR PARTNER IN WORKFORCE SUCCESS • • • • • •
Customized training and professional development Certificate testing & professional assessments OSHA pre-audits and inspections Leadership development Employee acquisition and recruitment Facility space rentals
Be in the know! Sign up for our monthly Workforce Solutions email to get the latest Workforce Solutions news, training opportunities, events, and resources delivered straight to your inbox!
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Call 920.693.1167 or email workforce.solutions@lakeshore.edu.
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Lakeshore College 1290 North Avenue Cleveland, WI 53015
NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID LAKESHORE TECHNICAL COLLEGE PERMIT NO. 10
lakeshore.edu
Need Event Space? Lakeshore College offers rental space at four different campus locations in the Sheboygan and Manitowoc area. Choose from conference rooms, boardrooms, classrooms, auditoriums, lecture halls, and more. Onsite AV services and equipment are provided. With ample, free parking and fully-equipped meeting spaces, Lakeshore is ideal for meetings, conferences, seminars, and special events. Contact us at workforce.solutions@lakeshore.edu.
Join us for Special Events Lakeshore College invites the public to campus throughout the school year. Be sure to check our website for detailed dates and times at lakeshore.edu. • Food Truck Wednesdays • College, Candy, & Costumes | October 17 • VITA Tax Service - Tax Filing Assistance • Community Open House | October 28 • Community Open House | March 16 • Summer Camps
LAKESHORE COLLEGE
1.888.468.6582 • TTY 711 1290 North Avenue • Cleveland WI 53015 HLC Accredited • hlcommission.org lakeshore.edu LAKESHORE COLLEGE DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE AGAINST PROTECTED CLASSES, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO RACE, COLOR, NATIONAL ORIGIN, RELIGION, SEX, OR GENDER – INCLUDING SEXUAL ORIENTATION, GENDER IDENTITY, GENDER EXPRESSION, DISABILITY OR AGE IN EMPLOYMENT, ADMISSIONS, OR ITS PROGRAMS OR ACTIVITIES. TO HANDLE INQUIRIES REGARDING LAKESHORE’S NONDISCRIMINATION POLICIES, CONTACT VICE PRESIDENT OF STUDENT AFFAIRS, TANYA BOMAN, AT 920.693.1858 OR, TANYA.BOMAN@LAKESHORE.EDU /EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES, JENNIFER STOHL, AT 920.693.1139 OR JENNIFER.STOHL@LAKESHORE.EDU. 1290 NORTH AVENUE, CLEVELAND, WI 53015. TTY 711 LAKESHORE.EDU/EQUAL-OPPORTUNITY-STATEMENT 09/26