COA welcomed three new members to its Board of Directors this September at the agency’s annual meeting. We are pleased to announce the addition of Michael (Mike) Aldana, a partner in of Quarles & Brady’s Labor and Employment Group, and the return of Ronald D. Miller of Cleary Gull, and Tracy Luber of Milwaukee Economic Development Corporation, both of whom previously served on COA’s Board from 2004-2013.

September’s event also brought a change in Board officers with current Board President Mark Kultgen handing the reins to Lindy Yeager, a board member since 1999 and former Vice President (2007-2013).

 

In addition to the approval of new board member, COA honored four individuals for their leadership and service:

Community Partner Award –  Andy Fleckenstein (Fleck Foundation): Andy Fleckenstein and the Fleck Foundation have been long-time supporters of COA and his support has played a critical role in the growth and success of the agency.  Andy and his wife Jan are also regular attendees at Parents of the Year and at Oscar Night.

Outstanding Youth Leader Award – Denzel Sloan: Denzel has been attending COA since 2006.  He is a graduate of Washington High School who enrolled in Bryant & Stratton College’s Medical Assistant program this September.  He was voted by the teen participants as President of the Teen Program. His responsibilities include leadership of the Goldin Coalition, a group made up of teen participants who seek to drive positive change in their community through event planning and service. Denzel always has a positive attitude, gets along well with his peers and COA staff.  He is well organized, listens to his peers, offers good ideas, and has demonstrated his leadership ability. As this year’s Outstanding Youth Leader, Denzel received a $500 scholarship from the Tom Schneider Scholarship Fund to help begin his college career.

Outstanding Volunteer Award – Kyle Buehner:  Kyle has volunteered in COA’s Riverwest Center Youth Development program since 2012. He came to COA with a desire to positively influence his community and interest in working with youth. His enthusiasm, humor, sincerity, and skills on the basketball court allowed him to build genuine friendships with program participants.  In addition to all he brings to the youth development program, Kyle has also provided a helping hand at COA’s annual Oscar Night gala and to Skyline Music.

Distinguished Board Leader Award – Molly Lopes: Since joining the board in 2012, Molly has dedicated countless hours of her time and expertise, asked difficult questions, and encouraged everyone to rise to the occasion and contribute to creation of an agency strategic vision.

Thank you for your service

This September brought changes to COA’s Board of Directors with the conclusions of terms for Mark Kultgen, (Board Member 1996-2014, President 2011-2014) and David Heard (Board Member 2005-2014). We extend our deepest thanks to Mark and David for their commitment to furthering COA’s mission and improving the lives of thousands of children and families who have been positively impacted through their service. Both have assured us they will remain close to the agency.