CLASS OF 2026
DIRECTORY
CLASS OF 2026
Abby Swiecichowski
Security Financial Bank // Marketing Specialist aswiecichowski@sfbank.com (920) 676-7823
I am the marketing specialist at Security Financial Bank. Originally from the Green Bay area, I graduated from UW-Eau Claire in 2019 with a degree in integrated strategic communication. I love that marketing is an ever-evolving field and especially enjoy working in social media and event planning. I am a proud dog mom to Ivy, my Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a devoted Packers fan, and a pop culture enthusiast.
Alex Kalish
Huebsch (Cintas) // Key Account Manager alexk@huebsch-services.com (715) 579-3412
My name is Alex, and I am a Key Account Manager for Cintas (Formerly Huebsch Services). I am from Eau Claire and a graduate of Chippewa Valley Technical College with degrees in Business and Marketing Management. Prior history in sales positions and was also the owner of Mom’s Kitchen Family Restaurant for 6 years (after working as an employee throughout high school). When I’m not working, I enjoy golfing and being outside as well as spending time at home with my family.
Amy Cummings
University of Wisconsin- Continuing Education // Outreach Program Manager cumminaj@uwec.edu (801) 403-0984
I am currently an Outreach Program Manager for Continuing Education where I develop and manage programs for adult learners! A native of Montana but spending a lot of time moving around, my family and I relocated to Eau Claire 6 years ago. I spend my free time camping with my family and exploring the Chippewa Valley as well as the greater Midwest. I also love cooking new recipes, spending time with friends and watching my favorite shows!
DIRECTORY
CLASS OF 2026
Aspen Ryskoski
Realityworks // Assistant Controller
aspen.ryskoski@rwthrive.com (715) 530-1206
Hello! My name is Aspen Ryskoski, and I currently serve as the Assistant Controller for Realityworks. I am originally from Eleva, WI, just south of Eau Claire. I graduated from the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire in 2020 with a double major in Accounting and Finance. In my free time, I enjoy going on walks with my wife and two dogs, Nelson and Franklin, as well as camping, playing basketball, and cheering on the Packers.
Billie Hufford
City of Eau Claire // Community Development Project Coordinator
billie.hufford@eauclairewi.gov (715) 839-4914
I am the Community Development Project Coordinator and work on housing and economic development initiatives for the City of Eau Claire. I moved to Eau Claire in August 2021 from the Kansas City region and I am an Iowa native. I have an Associates Degree in Accounting, a Bachelor’s Degree in Urban Planning + Design, completing a Masters Degree in Sustainable Management, and a GIS Certificate.
Blake Fischer
Bakke Norman, S.C. // Attorney bfischer@bakkenorman.com (715) 210-5718
As a life-long resident of the Eau Claire area, I have had the exciting opportunity and privilege to personally witness the growth and development of the Eau Claire area over the past few decades. I received degrees from both CVTC and UWEC and gained additional experience in the local public and private sectors. I am also a Board Trustee of the Family Promise of the Chippewa Valley, and I continue to serve the community of Eau Claire through my current role as an attorney with Bakke Norman, S.C.
DIRECTORY CLASS OF
2026
Blake Herbison
City of Eau Claire // Assistant City Attorney blake.herbison@eauclairewi.gov (715) 839-6006
Born and raised in Fall Creek (go Crickets!), I returned to the Eau Claire area after law school to help address an impending lawyer shortage in the region. I found a perfect fit in public service with the Eau Claire City Attorney’s office, gaining experience in transactions, prosecutions and litigation, and general advice. Fun fact: I am a home coffee roaster, and my favorite bean these days is an Ethiopian variety roasted super light resulting in blueberry flavor notes.
Bonnie Krahn
River Valley Architects // Strategic Partnership Manager bonnie@rivervalleyarchitects.com (715) 379-2073
Bonnie Krahn is a lifelong Eau Claire resident with a BFA and MBA from UW-Eau Claire. Her career spans 20+ years of professional business and marketing experience. In 2024, she was honored as a recipient of the Eau Claire Area Chamber Small Business of the Year Award and Glassbrenner-Klinkhammer Spirit Award. In 2025, Bonnie joined River Valley Architects as Strategic Partnership Manager where she develops new business opportunities and fosters strong industry and community relationships.
Brad Juhlke
Wipfli LLP // Tax Manager brad.juhlke@wipfli.com (715) 551-2309
I am Tax Manager and CPA at Wipfli with over 6 years of experience in providing specialized tax services to clients in and around the Chippewa Valley. I completed my undergrad at UWEC, and I hold a master’s degree in business taxation from the University of Minnesota. I am originally from a small town in central Wisconsin called Merrill. Currently I live in Lake Hallie with my wife, our spoiled chocolate lab, and will be expecting the birth of our first child in July 2025.
DIRECTORY
CLASS OF 2026
Brandon Jenness
Bauman Associates // Senior Auditor brandonjenness@baumancpa.com (715) 418-1472
My name is Brandon Jenness, and I am a Senior Auditor at Bauman Associates where I work primarily with Cooperatives and Employee Benefit Plans, as well as local businesses. I grew up in Barron, WI prior to moving to Eau Claire and graduating from UWEC with a double major in Accounting & Finance. In my free time I enjoy spending time with friends/family, running, hiking, camping, and pretty much anything else in the outdoors.
Brittni Ruberg
Xcel Energy // Siting and Land Rights Agent brittni.ruberg@xcelenergy.com (715) 225-3660
After graduating from UW-Stout, I relocated to Eau Claire in 2011 to pursue my career as a Land Rights Agent with Xcel Energy. Born and raised in Northern Wisconsin, I have a passion for the outdoors, whether its hiking, fishing, or hunting, I am likely to be found enjoying nature. I am happy to call the Chippewa Valley my home, appreciating the community and abundant recreational opportunities it offers.
Chris Fitzgerald
Mosaic Technologies-HomeTech // Director of Public Relations cfitzgerald@experiencemosaic.com (715) 418-1328
After 28 years in law enforcement with the last 17 as the Barron County Sheriff, I have stepped into a new role as Director of Public Relations role at Mosaic Technologies. I have served on over 10 non-profit boards, including Leadership Barron County and my new role will allow me to continue making a difference in the communities we serve, including the Eau Claire area. My wife is a social worker, my daughter is a nurse, and my son plays junior hockey.
DIRECTORY
CLASS OF 2026
Christina Prestin
Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association // Program & Office Manager info@cvhomebuilders.com (715) 495-0224
I have been with the Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association since 2021. I love working in the association world as it allows me to build strong relationships with other working professionals in the community. From working with the public during the Home Show or the Parade of Homes and working with our members, I am excited and passionate about people I get to connect with every day. When I am not in the office, I spend time with my husband and 8-year-old twins traveling or planning a trip.
Dang Yang
Eau Claire Area School District // Director of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion dyang1@ecasd.us (715) 212-3631
I was born and raised in Wisconsin, and I am the Director of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) for the Eau Claire Area School District. I’ve been working in the education profession for nearly two decades now. I graduated from UW-Eau Claire in 2008 with a major in Public Communications, and I received my Master’s degree in Multicultural College Teaching & Learning from the U of M-Twin Cities. I live with my spouse and two kids in Eau Claire, and I love learning new things.
Derek Muck
WIN Technology // Network Sales Engineer derek.muck@wintechnology.com (920) 905-5217
I have been living up in Eau Claire since January 2020 right after graduating from UW Stout. I work at WIN Technology as a Network Sales Engineer. Outside of work I coach soccer both at Altoona Middle School and Valley Sports Academy. I don’t just coach soccer but I currently play for Eau Claire Union Des Bateaux FC. Other than just coaching or playing soccer I am a big runner and outdoor enthusiast. A fun fact is I have a cat named Yeti that I take camping with me and on hikes.
DIRECTORY
CLASS OF 2026
Eli Mancheski
Xcel Energy // Career Development Instructor eli.mancheski@xcelenergy.com (715) 495-5254
I am currently an Instructor for the contact center at Xcel Energy, and the events chair for it’s ABLE business resource group. I came to Eau Claire for the university, fell in love with the city, found and fell in love with my wife, and have decided to make Eau Claire my forever home. We boast a family of a 9-month-old son, 3 cats, and a chocolate lab!
Emily Fliehr
Eau Claire Area Economic Development Corporation // Project Manager emily.fliehr@eauclaire-wi.com (715) 214-8038
I am the Project Manager at the Eau Claire Area Economic Development Corporation (EDC). I graduated in 2023 with a BA in English Critical Studies and an emphasis in Legal Studies from UW - Eau Claire. Being from this area, I am passionate about my role at the EDC because I am one of the ones helping to bring businesses into the area and aiding to retain local businesses. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, working out, trying new restaurants and making memories with friends & family.
Eric Wiltrout
WNB Financial, N.A. // Chief Banking Officer ericw@wnbfinancial.com (218) 892-0532
I recently relocated to the Chippewa Valley and am the Chief Banking Officer for WNB Financial, N.A. I grew up in Worthington, MN and am a 2001 graduate of the University of Sioux Falls with a degree in Business Administration. I have a passion for community banking and believe that community banks are vital to the growth of an area. My wife Shari and I have 3 kids, twin daughters who are in college and a ten-year-old son. In my spare time I enjoy coaching youth sports.
DIRECTORY CLASS OF 2026
Erica Payne
WESTconsin Credit Union // Vice President - Chippewa Valley Offices epayne@westconsincu.org (651) 354-4126
I currently work for WESTconsin Credit Union, as Vice President of the Altoona, Chippewa Falls, and Eau Claire offices. I received my BA and MBA from Hamline University and hold a Supervisory Management Certificate from UWEC. I live on a small hobby farm with my husband and daughter, as well as several dogs, cats, and horses. I enjoy crafting, traveling, and spending time with my family. Professionally, I am passionate about continuous learning, process improvement, and engaged leadership.
Erin Detwiler
River Valley Architects // Project Architect erind@rivervalleyarchitects.com (608) 354-3542
I am a project architect at River Valley Architects and a seasoned swim coach whose career bridges the worlds of design and athletics. I bring a unique blend of technical expertise and people-centered leadership to every endeavor. Recently, I relocated to the area with my partner and our fur babies, excited to explore and connect with the local community. I thrive on staying active—whether I’m biking, hiking, swimming, or tending to my garden or experimenting with recipes in the kitchen.
Gina Leath
Marshfield Medical Center- Eau Claire // Chief Nursing Officer-West Market leath.gina@marshfieldclinic.org (832) 729-0939
I serve as Chief Nursing Officer for Marshfield Medical Center- Eau Claire as CNO for the West Market (Eau Claire, Rice Lake, and Ladysmith). I have been in nursing over 30 years with a background in cardiovascular critical care. I received by MSN in Leadership and Management from Western Governors University. I moved to Eau Claire with my husband and family in 2023. When not at work, I enjoy spending time with my family, watching movies, shopping and exploring Wisconsin.
DIRECTORY CLASS OF 2026
Heather Kretz
Market & Johnson // Employee & Organizational Development Manager hkretz@market-johnson.com (715) 828-0896
I’ve been with Market & Johnson for 4 years; I’m on the management team and lead strategic efforts to grow and develop employee talent, culture and company communication/marketing. I worked in higher education admissions for 18 years and enjoyed teaching interpersonal communication and being a business/industry trainer for CVTC. I’m a UWEC & Gonzaga alum who fell in love with Eau Claire during college, and have called it home for 21 years. My husband, 2 boys, and sweet cavapoo keep me hopping!
Janel Grenz
Eau Claire City-County Health Department // Communicable and Clinical Services Division Manager
janel.hebert@eauclairecounty.gov (715) 495-1116
I have been a Public Health Nurse with the Eau Claire City-County Health Department for almost 20 years and recently transitioned to a new role as Communicable and Clinical Services Division Manager. I received my BSN from UWEC in 2004. I live in Chippewa Falls with my husband and our spoiled bulldog, Chance. We have two college age children. Outside of work I enjoy traveling, riding motorcycle, hiking, gardening, and yoga.
Jordan Pospishil
Royal Credit Union // Business Banking Officer jordan.pospishil@rcu.org (715) 214-8187
I’m a Business Banking Officer at Royal Credit Union, serving the Eau Claire market with over 15 years of experience in consumer and commercial lending. A UW–Eau Claire Economics graduate and Chippewa Valley native, I’ve also worked in the nonprofit sector and managed operations for my family’s business. I live in Eau Claire with my husband and two daughters, and enjoy family travel, practicing yoga (fun fact: I’m a registered yoga teacher), and cheering on my daughters at their sporting events.
DIRECTORY CLASS OF 2026
Justin Schuenemann
Ayres Associates // Civil Engineer/Project Manager schuenemannj@ayresassociates.com (920) 960-1725
I am a civil engineering project manager at Ayres Associates. I grew up in southern Wisconsin and moved to Eau Claire with my wife and family in 2020. I have worked on projects ranging from environmental cleanups to energy management and most recently municipal infrastructure. I am a graduate of UWSP and UW Madison. I enjoy spending time with my wife, four kids, and dog. We like to get outside whenever we have the opportunity whether it be camping, hiking, or walks.
Karen Morris
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire // Teaching Professor | Past Director of Forensics morriskr@uwec.edu (715) 379-2424
My name is Karen Morris and I teach Communication Studies at UWEC and have been doing so for 27 years. After 23 years of traveling every weekend and coaching several national championships, I retired as Director of Forensics to focus on teaching and service to the University. In my spare time, I enjoy being an empty nester with my husband, Ryan and frequently visiting our only son who plays soccer for Stanford University. I’m a true soccer mom and now an Express Player Host Parent!
Keith Jochimsen
Miron Construction // Project Manager keith.jochimsen@miron-construction.com (920) 572-6482
I moved my family to the Eau Claire area from Sun Prairie about five years ago when I took a Project Manager position at Miron Construction. I earned my bachelor ’s degree in construction from UW Stout in 2012. My wife and I plus our four children enjoy frequenting local business for everything from date nights, birthday adventures, and shopping. When we’re not running kids to sporting events and practice, we enjoy all things outdoors.
DIRECTORY CLASS OF 2026
Kim Munsch
The Kim Louise Xperience // CEO/Owner kim@kimlouisexp.com (715) 450-3926
Experience Creator, Design Dreamer, and HGTV Enthusiast - Kim is the mastermind behind The Kim Louise Xperience and brings over 25 years of event planning, design, and administrative expertise. As a mother of five and grandmother to two, she knows how to juggle chaos with style—and make it look effortless. When not creating magic for her clients, you can find her with her family or binge watching Food Network and HGTV.
Lauren Bearson
HUB International // Employee Benefits Strategic Resource Manager lauren.bearson@hubinternational.com (724) 255-3496
Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, I moved to the Chippewa Valley in 2024 with my husband (an Eau Claire native), dog, and two cats. With over ten years of experience in employee benefits insurance, I’ve worked in both carrier and consulting organizations. An MBA graduate from Bethel University, I’m dedicated to continuous growth in my field. As a volunteer with Rescued and Redeemed, I’m passionate about creating impact through nonprofit work in Eau Claire and beyond.
Luke Rechtzigel
Hoeft Builders // Project Manager lrechtzigel@hoeftbuilders.com (715) 492-1090
I am a Project Manager at Hoeft Builders. I have been at Hoeft Builders for over four years and have built great relationships with the people who have made moving to this community so great. I grew up in Minnesota and moved to the area in 2016 to attend UW-Stout, where I earned a degree in Construction Management. I met my wife in college and we decided to put down roots and start a family here. Outside of work, I enjoy spending my free time fishing, camping, and visiting family.
DIRECTORY
CLASS OF 2026
Mary LaVenture
Pablo Center at the Confluence // STEAM Programs Manager Mary@pablocenter.org (715) 607-0196
As the STEAM Programs Manager at Pablo Center, I lead K–12 initiatives that integrate arts and STEM—ranging from robotics teams to summer classes and art outreach. I’m passionate about designing programs that inspire creativity, critical thinking, and inclusion. I love the “lightbulb moments” when students connect with a concept. After working in museums and arts organizations across several states, I returned to Eau Claire to help grow innovative education programs in this amazing community.
Maygen Lundgren
Kools Wealth Management // Director of Financial Planning maygen.j.lundgren@nm.com (715) 415-0272
I am a committed community member in Eau Claire. Originally from Ladysmith, Wisconsin so I bring a strong sense of Midwest values to both my personal and professional life. As the director of financial planning for Kools Wealth Management I will always put the people first. In my free time I enjoy giving back to my community in a verity of different ways. Outside of work and philanthropy, I enjoy fishing, spending time outdoors and exploring our community with my dog.
McKenna Scherer
Volume One // Managing Editor mckenna@volumeone.org (715) 577-6551
As a born-and-raised Chippewa Vallian, I did what every 18-year-old dreams of after graduating high school: movin’ out and away! I went to college in Minnesota and lived there for about two years, earning my bachelor’s degree in mass communication with an emphasis in journalism – earning academic honors and a journalism scholarship along the way. I enjoyed college but I am a Wisconsinite, through and through, and returned to Eau Claire after landing an editorial role at Volume One Magazine.
DIRECTORY CLASS OF 2026
Megan Green
American Red Cross // Fixed Site Supervisor meggie.peaches@gmail.com (715) 563-5316
Hello, I can’t wait to meet you! My name is Megan Green, Meg by my friends, family and team, and hopefully the new faces I will meet as part of the Leadership Eau Claire group. I am an enthusiastic aunt of my 2-year-old nephew and a Eau Claire area native since 2001. I graduated from the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire in 2013 and have been working in the Midwest ever since. Currently I am proud to work with the American Red Cross as a local site supervisor and in the Biomedical Committee.
Michael Lundebrek
Venture Academy // Marketing and Communications Director michael.lundebrek@ventureacademy.org (715) 972-0032
I’m Michael Lundebrek, a designer, photographer, and marketing strategist based in Eau Claire, WI. With over 12 years of experience, I’ve worked across print, digital, and social to help brands tell their stories with clarity and creativity. I live in Eau Claire with my wife, two kids, and some energetic dogs. When I’m not behind the camera or working on a campaign, you’ll usually find me outdoors—on a bike, exploring the woods, or enjoying time with my family.
Paula Gregory
Regional Enterprises for Adults and Children // Development Coordinator pgregory@reach-inc.org (715) 579-9889
25+ years working in various administrative roles, profit and non profit sector. Development Coordinator for REACH, Inc. for the past year. Working with non profits and being able to make an impact in so many lives is fulfilling and humbling. Proud mom of 2 adults who have found their way in life along with gramma to 2 amazing granddaughters! I am also Board Chair for Agnes’ Table & Community Center in Chippewa Falls.
DIRECTORY CLASS OF 2026
Samantha Holtz
Metropolis Resort // Hotel General Manager samantha@metropolisresort.com (715) 210-8716
I have been with Metropolis Resort for 13 years, starting as a banquet server and growing into various leadership roles including Restaurant Manager and Sales & Catering Manager. I now oversee hotel operations along with the restaurant and housekeeping departments. I live on a farm in Chetek with my husband, our two kids, my parents, and a variety of animals. Outside of work, I enjoy cheering on my kids in their sports, traveling with my husband, and spending time in the garden with my mom.
Sara Ellis
Frandsen Bank & Trust // Retail Banking Manager sellis@frandsenbank.com (715) 577-1730
My name is Sara Ellis, and I am the Retail Banking Manager at Frandsen Bank & Trust. I have almost twenty years of retail banking experience. I grew up on a dairy farm about 30 minutes south of Eau Claire and I currently reside in Eau Claire with my husband, Justin. Outside of work I enjoy traveling, a good supper club, and spending time with family and friends.
Shane Dutton
Royal Credit Union // Branch Manager shane.dutton@rcu.org (715) 225-0709
Branch Manager - Royal Credit Union. Born and raised in Eau Claire, along with all immediate family close by. Enjoy cheering on the Pack/Badgers/Brewcrew and coaching my son’s baseball team (10yr olds). I have a graduating senior at NHS in 2026 and my wife works in the ECASD at Sam Davey.
DIRECTORY
CLASS OF 2026
Shannyn Pinkert
Property Shoppe Realty LLC // Broker/Owner shannyn@propertyshopperealty.com (715) 379-3574
I am the owner of Property Shoppe Realty, an independent firm serving the Chippewa Valley since 2017 although I have been licensed since 2009. I graduated from UWEC in 2003 with BA-Mass Communications and a minor in Business Admin. I love living in the Chippewa Valley! I serve on several local boards including REALTOR’S Assoc. of Northwestern WI, Chippewa Valley Home Builders Assoc. and the EC Children’s Theatre. I enjoy horseback riding, traveling & eating good food.
Taylor Boyd
Chippewa Valley Technical College // Student Central Specialist thuppert14@cvtc.edu (715) 519-0280
As a Student Central Specialist at CVTC, I am honored to be a helping hand to our students throughout their academic journey. While a career in higher education was never my plan, I am so grateful to have found myself there! When I am not at work, I am very active with the Chippewa Valley Theatre Guild. I serve on the Board of Directors and also find myself acting and directing from time to time. My husband and I enjoy concerts and attending Minnesota United games with family and friends.
Theresa Meinen
Chippewa Valley Technical College // Simulation Education Manager tmeinen2@cvtc.edu (715) 829-0232
I got my degree in Respiratory Therapy in 1995 and then spent most of my clinical years at Mayo–Eau Claire. In 2005, I became the RT Program Clinical Coordinator at CVTC and now serve as Simulation Education Manager. I’ve also served on the BOD for the WI Society for Respiratory Care for 15+ years, now as President. I’m married to my high school sweetheart, and we have 2 adult children: Justin, a chef, and Amber, a manager with Kwik Trip. We enjoy lake time, traveling, and cheering on WI sports!
DIRECTORY
CLASS OF 2026
Tina Probst
Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce // Director of Workforce & Emerging Talent probst@eauclairechamber.org (218) 340-6159
My name is Tina Probst, and I serve as the Director of Workforce and Emerging Talent at the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce. Originally from Superior, WI, I moved to Eau Claire for college and never left - because I love this community. Now, I’m lucky to call this area home with my husband and our rescue pup! Outside of the office, I enjoy spending time in the garden, cooking, and capturing life behind the lens of my camera. I thrive in spaces that encourage close relationships, allow room for creativity, and bring together people who genuinely want to make things better.
Tim Hagman
Mayo Clinic Health System - Eau Claire // Administrator hagmann.timothy@mayo.edu (715) 577-9695
I am an administrator at Mayo Clinic Health System in Eau Claire supporting the ENT and Ophthalmology practices for Wisconsin. I have lived in Eau Claire my entire life and have also worked at Mayo Clinic my entire career. I am continually looking for opportunities to grow professionally and personally and look forward to the Leadership Eau Claire experience. On a personal level, I love the outdoors and spend time hunting, weekend cabin trips, hiking, and bee keeping.
DIRECTORY CLASS OF 2026
Tyler Sperry
Mower Sperry Insurance Agency // President tsperry@mowerins.com (715) 492-1783
Tyler is a 4th generation of the family business. He has been working here since January 2013, and focuses on both Commercial and Personal insurance products. He aims to help business and people with risk management through the use insurance products. When he is not working, he enjoys being in the outdoors, whether that is hunting, fishing, going on hikes with his dog, or grilling in the backyard.
William Torhorst
Godfrey & Kahn, S.C. // Attorney wtorhorst@gklaw.com (608) 213-0013
I am an attorney advising on Real Estate, Estate Planning and Administration, and transfer of Family Businesses. I am licensed in Wisconsin and Minnesota. I studied at the University of St Thomas Law School in Minneapolis, and went to undergrad at UW-Madison. My wife, two daughters, and I recently moved from Minneapolis, and are very happy to be back in the Badger State. I look forward to learning more about my classmates as well as the businesses and industries of the Chippewa Valley!
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CLASS OF 2026
Chair
Phillip Swiler // Community Engagement Director
Valley Sports Academy
phil.swiler@thesigngroup.com (715) 523-9761
Phillip Swiler is the Community Engagement Director at Valley Sports Academy (VSA) and Lake Wissota Golf Course. He is a 2008 Disney Institute Graduate as well as a Leadership 2.0 Graduate ( Leadership EC 2.0) and earned a Supervisory Management Certification from Hennepin Technical College in 1993. Previously, he served as the VP of Investor Engagement with the Eau Claire Area of Commerce for 4 years prior to his role at VSA. Before the Chamber, he was in various leadership roles ( Manager, Director, VP) in the technology sector for 27 years. Phil has managed professional staffing of all sizes, as well as budgetary responsibilities. Phil has spoken at numerous conferences and seminars in the area. He speaks about Leadership, Sales, Sales Management, Customer Service, HR Practices, and Business Development/Marketing. Additionally, Phil has been a youth hockey coach for 33 years and serves on the CVTC Advisory board for entrepreneurship, as well as on other local committees as needed. He is a Volunteer for Junior Achievement (11 Years), Habitat for Humanity (Strategic Planning 2023), Cross Plains Chamber (Strategic Planning 2025), as well as other non-profits in the area. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, golfing, music and family time.
Outgoing Chair
Michael Strubel // B2B Sales Manager
PESI
eaumichael@gmail.com (715) 491-7913
Michael Strubel is a B2B Sales Manager at PESI and a passionate live music enthusiast. He earned his bachelor’s degree in organizational communication from UW-Eau Claire. Over the past 25 years, he has held a range of leadership and relationship-focused roles in sales and development, including Director of Sales at WEAU, Major Gift Officer at Marshfield Clinic Health System, and Director of Sales & Events at Visit Eau Claire. Michael is an active and proud board member of the YMCA of the Chippewa Valley, the Family Support Center, and the Eau Claire Public Schools Foundation. He and his wife Tracy, a mental health professional in the Chippewa Valley, have three amazing daughters.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
CLASS OF 2026
Incoming Chair
Jennifer Moen // VP Treasury
Management
Nicolet National Bank
jmoen@nicoletbank.com (715) 254-3481
Jen Moen, VP Treasury Management with Nicolet National Bank, has been serving the Chippewa Valley for over 30 years in the banking industry. Jen joined Nicolet National Bank in the fall of 2022. She is a 2014 graduate of Leadership Eau Claire and volunteers with several organizations including the YMCA of the Chippewa Valley, Give Chippewa County, Oktoberfest, and more. Jen lives in Chippewa Falls with her husband and daughter.
Leadership Facilitator
John Kleven //
Associate Dean of Business, Arts, and Sciences
Chippewa Valley Technical College
jkleven4@cvtc.edu (715) 831-7253
John Kleven is an Associate Dean of Business, Arts, and Sciences at Chippewa Valley Technical College. He’s currently enrolled in the Doctorate of Contextual Leadership program at Trinity Bible College. John earned a Master of Science in Career and Technical Education and a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing Education with a minor in Business Administration from UW Stout. He also received an Associate in Applied Science degree in Marketing from CVTC. John enjoys spending time with his wife and boy-girl twins. He is also an avid outdoorsman and advocate for the environment. John is a 2018 graduate of Leadership Eau Claire™, a 2012 graduate of The Chair Academy - Wisconsin Leadership Development Institute, and a 2010 graduate of Leadership River Falls.
Program Director
Kaitlyn Molis // Director of Education and Young Professionals
Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce
molis@eauclairechamber.org (715) 858-0614
Kaitlyn Molis is the Director of Education and Young Professionals for the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce. She received Associate’s Degrees in Marketing and Digital Marketing from Chippewa Valley Technical College in 2021 and 2022. Kaitlyn spent two years with the Chamber as an intern while studying at CVTC, which allowed her to step into this role with ease and excitement when the time arose. Kaitlyn enojys sand volleyball, yoga, walks, playing piano, and spending time with her family and friends!
Leadership Eau Claire™ brings together a group of diverse people with leadership abilities and immerses them into the Eau Claire community through seven sessions and two leadership development retreats. The goal is to increase participants’ community knowledge through skill-building exercises, activities and educational days that inspire them to take an active role in shaping our community.
Tomorrow will look very different depending upon whose eyes you are looking through, but the Eau Claire area will definitely be better because of Leadership Eau Claire™ .