Star Journal Staff

The Northwoods United Way is hosting the 4th Annual Leaderfest 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Aug. 14 at Nicolet College Lakeside Center. The one-day professional development and personal enrichment event will includes speakers, networking opportunities and learning about what leadership and volunteer opportunities and needs exist within the Northwoods.

Green Bay Packers defensive back LeRoy Butler (36) plays defense during an NFL football game against the Carolina Panthers at Lambeau Field on December 12,1999 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The Packers won 31-33. (AP Photo/David Stluka)

Keynote speaker will LeRoy Butler, a retired safety for the Green Bay Packers, sponsored by Nicolet National Bank.

“This is a unique opportunity to hear about his experiences as a leader on the team from 1990 – 2001,” said Amy Vanney, Nicolet National Bank Rhinelander manager.  “We are pleased to bring LeRoy to the Northwoods.  It is not every day that we have a chance like this to hear about how leadership in his career was vital to the success of his team and for himself.”

Several notable speakers will be featured. Gina Thorsen, president of Stormy Kromer, will talk about leading the marketing, sales and new product development efforts for this iconic Made-in-the-USA apparel brand. Scott Reppert, CEO of Purova, will talk about leadership in his many life ventures.

New this year is a panel of local business leaders.

“So far we have Printpack plant Manager Pat Marquardt, Walmart store Manager Brent Sundby, Kate Ferrel, Executive Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs at Nicolet College, Rhonda Jicinsky, owner of CT’s Deli and Josh Clark, owner of Culver’s, answering questions regarding leadership in our communities,” Northwoods United Way Executive Director Nancy Sattler said. “We are excited about the great perspectives our local leaders can help provide.”

This year’s event will qualify for Continuing Education Credits from Nicolet College.  In addition, LeRoy will be around for photos and autographs at the end of the event.  A donation to Northwoods United Way is suggested for this meet and greet session. Lunch is included in the registration cost of $45 per person. In addition to Nicolet National Bank, sponsors include WPS and Nicolet College.

“Leaderfest is a great opportunity for people in northern Wisconsin to network and also to receive some professional training,” said Sattler. “We want to help develop strong leaders. The Northwoods United Way believes that having strong leaders helps to create a strong community. Graduates of the 2016 Leadership Oneida County class collaborated with Northwoods United Way to provide the Leaderfest experience to leaders in our area”

Registration is available online at Leaderfest19.eventbrite.com. Attendees can also register by mail, with a check included made payable to “Northwoods United Way,” and mailed to: Northwoods United Way Inc., PO Box 177, Rhinelander, WI 54501. Please include the person’s first and last name, phone number, email address, and mailing address.

The Northwoods United Way works to advance the building blocks for a quality life, which are health, income, and education. It serves community members in Vilas, Oneida, and Forest Counties.  Currently, the Northwoods United Way provides funding to 27 agencies throughout the three counties. Visit www.northwoodsunitedway.org for a complete list of the agencies supported in 2017.

For more information on the event, or if you’d like to learn more about Northwoods United Way, you may contact Nancy Sattler at 715-202-3344.