by Alyssa Johnson
Women Making a DIFFERENCE
Five years ago, the Women’s Inspire Awards were created to celebrate women whose impact often happens quietly, behind the scenes. Over the years, we have had the privilege of sharing the stories of remarkable women who lead with heart, serve without expectation, and make our community stronger every day. Their journeys remind us that some of the most meaningful contributions are made not for recognition, but because someone simply sees a need and chooses to help.
That couldn’t be more true of this year’s honorees. They inspire our children, strengthen connections, support those facing difficult circumstances, and help move the Fox Cities forward. While their paths and contributions may differ, they share a common purpose: improving the lives of the people around them. Their dedication to service, leadership, and community impact is evident in everything they do.
Each woman featured in these pages was nominated by someone who witnessed that dedication firsthand and wanted to shine a light on the difference she makes. Their stories are a powerful reminder that inspiration often comes from the people beside us every day: our coworkers, neighbors, mentors, friends, and family members.
We are honored to share these stories with you and offer a glimpse into the lives of six extraordinary women. We hope their journeys inspire you as much as they have inspired us. We also encourage you to think about the women who have inspired you — the individuals whose kindness, leadership, and generosity often go unnoticed but deserve to be celebrated.
Thank you to everyone who has supported the Women’s Inspire Awards over the past five years. This event would not be possible without our nominators, sponsors, volunteers, attendees, and community partners.
And to this year’s honorees: thank you for allowing us to celebrate you. Your impact is immeasurable, and our gratitude is beyond words.
With gratitude,
Alyssa Johnson and Amanda Krueger
Alyssa and Amanda are proud to support and uplift the women who make our community stronger every day. Thank you to American National Bank Fox Cities for believing in this mission, and to Jon Croce and Appleton Monthly Magazine for giving us the opportunity to celebrate these remarkable women!
Kristin McCormack-Schroeder
Arts Advocate | Storyteller | Community Connector
Kristin has spent her career helping people connect through the arts. As Senior Manager of Brand Engagement at the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, she helps share the stories behind performances, programs, and initiatives that bring the community together. Through creativity, communications, and a deep appreciation for the arts, she plays a key role in creating experiences that leave a lasting impact.
Kristin is passionate about the power of storytelling and the unique ways the arts can inspire connection, learning, and understanding. Whether someone is attending their first performance, discovering a new perspective, or participating in a community program, she believes meaningful experiences have the ability to bring people together and strengthen communities.
One of Kristin’s greatest passions is helping grow the P.A.C.’s Viewpoint Speaker Series, which brings influential voices and thought-provoking conversations to the Fox Cities. She is inspired by opportunities to create spaces where people can broaden their perspectives, engage with new ideas, and leave feeling inspired. She also remains committed to ensuring the arts are accessible, welcoming, and meaningful for all members of the community.
Kristin credits Maria Van Laanen, president and CEO at the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, as one of her greatest professional influences. Having worked alongside Maria throughout much of her career at the P.A.C., she has witnessed firsthand the impact of thoughtful, visionary leadership. Kristin describes Maria as someone who leads with both heart and expertise — always willing to listen, offer guidance, and invest in the growth of others. Watching Maria help shape the P.A.C. into the organization it is today reinforced Kristin’s own belief in the power of connection, community, and servant leadership.
“The things that challenge you are often the things that help you grow the most.”
— Nominated by Erin Kelsey
Melissa Toshner
Educator | Advocate for Striving Learners | Champion for Student Success
Melissa has dedicated nearly 25 years to helping students reach their full potential. As associate director of special education for the Appleton Area School District, she supports educators, students, and families while helping to ensure every learner receives the opportunity, encouragement, and resources they need to succeed.
Melissa’s passion for special education began early in her teaching career when she discovered a love for understanding how students learn differently and finding creative ways to help them grow. She is inspired by the challenge of meeting learners where they are and helping educators create pathways for success. Whether supporting teachers in the classroom or helping guide district-wide initiatives, Melissa remains focused on one goal: ensuring every student feels valued, capable, and supported.
She is especially passionate about empowering the educators who work alongside students every day. Melissa often credits the teachers, support staff, and administrators around her for their heart, perseverance, and commitment to helping children thrive. She believes some of the most meaningful moments in education happen in small daily victories that eventually lead to lasting growth.
The educators she works with continue to inspire her through their compassion, resilience, and unwavering dedication to students. Their example is a constant reminder of the difference one caring person can make in a child’s life.
“If you’ve got grit and you’ve got heart, you can learn everything else.”
— Nominated by Carrie Willer
Dawn Ruchala
Community Impact Leader | Connector | Advocate for Opportunity
Dawn has built a career around creating meaningful opportunities for others. As senior community engagement manager at U.S. Venture, she helps lead initiatives that strengthen communities, support nonprofit organizations, and improve lives throughout Northeast Wisconsin. Through her work with the U.S. Venture Open and Basic Needs Giving Partnership, she helps connect generosity with causes that are making a lasting impact on children and families across the region.
What drives Dawn is a belief that opportunity can change the trajectory of a life. As the first person in her family to pursue higher education, she worked hard to create a future that looked different from the one she knew growing up. Earning both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree required perseverance, determination, and a commitment to continuous growth — qualities that continue to shape her leadership today. Having experienced firsthand how education can open doors, Dawn is passionate about helping others discover what is possible for their own future.
Dawn is especially passionate about helping children and families build brighter futures. Whether through fundraising, community partnerships, or volunteer leadership, she is motivated by the opportunity to create pathways for success and connect people with the resources they need to thrive. She believes meaningful change happens when people come together around a shared purpose and use their gifts to lift others up.
Dawn credits her mother as one of her greatest inspirations. Her mother’s resilience, determination, and ability to connect with people helped shape Dawn’s own approach to leadership and service. Those lessons continue to guide her as she works to ensure future generations have the same opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed.
“Keep focused on the big goals that you set for yourself because you’re going to accomplish all of them and then some.”
— Nominated by Beverly Fesing
Andrea Bartel-Riffle
Retired Educator | Community Volunteer | Advocate for Our Vulnerable
Andrea has spent her life helping others. After a 39-year career in education, she continues to serve the community by supporting individuals experiencing some of life’s most difficult challenges. As assistant shelter manager with the St. Joseph Catholic Church Emergency Shelter, Andrea brings compassion, patience, and a deep commitment to helping others feel seen, supported, and valued.
Andrea’s passion for service is rooted in the values she learned growing up in a large family and close-knit community. After retiring from education, she became increasingly aware of the housing challenges facing individuals and families throughout the Fox Cities. Believing that safe, stable housing is foundational to well-being, she felt called to become involved. Through her work with the emergency shelter, she helps connect people with resources, support, and opportunities that can help them take steps toward greater stability and independence.
Whether helping children in the classroom or individuals experiencing homelessness, Andrea approaches each person with empathy, patience, and respect. She has become a trusted advocate for many of the people she serves, helping them navigate appointments, access resources, and overcome barriers that can feel overwhelming. Andrea understands that lasting change often happens through small, steady steps, and she remains committed to walking alongside people as they work toward brighter futures.
Andrea is inspired by the many generous people she has encountered throughout her life, individuals who quietly give their time, energy, and support to help others. Their example continues to motivate her and reinforces her belief that strong communities are built through compassion and connection.
“Knowing you have someone who has your back is a real confidence builder. Not everyone has that, and that’s why showing up for others matters.”
— Nominated by Melanie Mailand, 2024 WIA recipient
Amy Bertram
Business Leader | Community Supporter | Family-First Entrepreneur
Amy knows that life doesn’t always follow the path you originally planned, and that can be a beautiful thing.
Originally a special education teacher, Amy stepped away from her career to focus on raising her children, embracing the role of full-time mom during a season when her family needed her most. As life evolved, so did Amy’s vision for what was possible. Alongside her husband, Ben, she helped build Fiberglass Solutions into a successful, growing business, eventually stepping into a leadership role she never originally imagined for herself.
Amy is passionate about creating opportunities, not only for her family and employees, but also for her community. Known for her willingness to jump in, support local organizations, and help bring people together, she believes leadership is less about recognition and more about making a positive impact on the people around you. Whether in business, at home, or through community involvement, she approaches every challenge with determination, humility, and a commitment to continuous growth.
One of Amy’s greatest sources of inspiration is her family. Working alongside her husband has given her a unique appreciation for partnership, perseverance, and shared goals. At the same time, she hopes her children see something bigger in her journey: that it is never too late to learn something new, take a different path, or become the person you are meant to be. Her story is a reminder that success isn’t always about following a plan; sometimes it’s about having the courage to embrace the unexpected.
“Life doesn’t always follow the path you originally planned, but that doesn’t mean it won’t lead you exactly where you’re meant to be.”
— Nominated by Ben Bertram
Leah Suprise
Community Volunteer | Foster Parent | Advocate for Families and First Responders
Leah has dedicated her life to helping others feel supported, valued, and cared for. As executive director of Project SIX, she works alongside first responders, families, and community members to provide meaningful support during both everyday challenges and life’s most difficult moments. Beyond her leadership with Project SIX, Leah has spent nearly a decade serving local families through her work with the Girl Scouts and has opened her heart and home as a foster parent, helping children feel safe, supported, and loved.
Leah’s commitment to service is deeply personal. Throughout her life, she has experienced challenges that shaped her perspective and strengthened her appreciation for the people who offered guidance, encouragement, and support along the way. Those experiences reinforced her belief that even the smallest act of kindness can make a lasting difference and continue to influence the way she serves others today.
Whether through Project SIX, foster parenting, the Girl Scouts, or countless volunteer efforts, Leah is passionate about ensuring people know they are not alone. She believes some of the most meaningful acts of service happen in everyday moments — showing up, listening, offering a helping hand, and reminding someone there is hope ahead. Her dedication to lifting others up has strengthened countless lives throughout the community.
Leah credits two high school teachers, Mr. Jack Wendt and Miss Linda Radke, as some of the most influential people in her life. Their encouragement, belief in her potential, and willingness to invest their time helped shape the person she is today. Their example continues to inspire her commitment to helping others recognize that their story is still being written and that their circumstances do not determine their future.
“I wouldn’t be where I am without the people who showed up for me, and I hope to be that person for others.”
— Nominated by Sarah Peterson
What brought you to your work?
Kristin: My career has taken a few different paths, but the common thread has always been creating experiences that bring people together. I started in entertainment marketing and public relations, worked with sports organizations and live events, and loved seeing how a shared experience could create excitement and connection. That passion eventually led me to the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center. Being able to connect people through storytelling, creativity, and the arts has been incredibly rewarding, and I still get excited seeing someone experience the P.A.C. for the first time.
Melissa: I knew pretty early in college that I wanted to go into special education, and I couldn’t imagine doing anything else. What intrigued me was trying to figure out how to help learners when the typical approach wasn’t working. It became this challenge of, “How do I help this student succeed?” That opportunity to meet students where they are and help them grow is what has kept me going for nearly 25 years.
Dawn: I originally thought I would work for an advertising agency after studying marketing at UW-Madison. Instead, I found myself on the client side, working in marketing, communications, and events. Over time, I realized what I enjoyed most wasn’t marketing itself. It was bringing people together around a purpose and creating something that made a difference. That eventually led me toward community engagement and the work I do today.
Andrea: Many people have been touched by homelessness or housing insecurity in some way, whether through a family member, friend, or neighbor. I’ve always been interested in affordable housing because housing is such a key component of stability. I grew up with a home. I grew up knowing where my meals would come from. After I retired, I attended a meeting at church about homelessness and affordable housing, and my passion just grew from there.
Amy: I always assumed I would spend my career teaching. When I stepped away from teaching to stay home with our children, it opened the door to a path I never expected. My husband had always dreamed of owning a business. I remember him coming home one day and saying, “If we’re going to work this hard, we’re going to do it for ourselves.” What started as his dream became something we built together as a family, and it completely changed the direction of my career.
Leah: My passion for helping others comes from the people who showed up for me throughout my life. Growing up, first responders were often some of the people who made me feel safe and reminded me things were going to be okay. Teachers, mentors, and community members did that for me too. Those experiences stayed with me. Whether through the Girl Scouts, foster parenting, or Project SIX, I’ve always felt called to give back and be that person for someone else.
What motivates you on your most challenging days?
Kristin: Seeing the impact our work has on people is always a cup filler for me.
The P.A.C. is so much more than a place where performances happen. It creates opportunities for people to learn, connect, and experience something meaningful. Watching someone discover a new perspective or leave feeling inspired reminds me why this work matters.
Melissa: I am surrounded by incredible educators every day.
When I’m having a hard day, I go into classrooms. I watch teachers do what they do best. That’s where the magic happens. Seeing the care, compassion, and perseverance they bring to students reminds me why this work matters and why it’s worth continuing to fight for every learner.
Dawn: I’ve always been gritty.
If something is challenging, I’m going to figure out a way to get it done. But more importantly, I try to keep things in perspective. Any challenge I’m facing at work is small compared to what many of the families we’re helping are experiencing. Remembering our mission and the people we’re serving helps keep me focused.
Andrea: My faith really drives me.
I’ve learned that I can only do my small part and trust that others will step forward to do theirs. The older I’ve gotten, the more I’ve realized what really matters. It’s how we treat one another. It’s the love we share and the ways we care for others. That’s what keeps me going.
Amy: I’ve learned that I need to break things down into steps.
When things feel overwhelming, I focus on what absolutely has to get done first and what can wait. It sounds simple, but it has helped me manage a growing list of responsibilities and keep moving forward. You can’t do everything at once, and that’s okay.
Leah: Giving back.
When I got sick, I was overwhelmed by the number of people who reached out, sent cards, and showed support. I didn’t realize how many people I had impacted because I never do it for gratification. I do it because we should be doing it. That reminder and those connections keep me going.
What do you envision for the future of your work?
Kristin: I’m excited to continue creating opportunities that bring people together through the arts. The growth of the Viewpoint Speaker Series has been especially rewarding because it brings unbelievable stories to our community and gives people the chance to broaden their horizons.
I’m also passionate about continuing to expand accessibility efforts so everyone feels welcome and able to experience the arts in a way that works for them.
Melissa: I want to continue developing RISE, supporting our teachers, and advocating for special education funding.
I’m also passionate about helping grow the profession. By the time I’m ready to step away from education, I want to know I’ve helped prepare and support the next generation of educators so they’re ready to carry this work forward and continue advocating for students.
Dawn: I see tremendous opportunity ahead.
Through the U.S. Venture Open and the Basic Needs Giving Partnership, we’re in a position to make an even greater impact throughout Northeast Wisconsin. There is so much opportunity and impact we can have in bigger, broader ways throughout the region, and that’s what gets me excited.
Andrea: Of course, I’d love to end homelessness, but there will always be new challenges to address.
What I hope for most is a community that continues to come together to support one another. We are only as strong as our most vulnerable members. If we can bring people together, lift each other up, and help people move forward with dignity and hope, we’ll all be stronger because of it.
Amy: We definitely plan to keep growing, although I’m usually the one saying, “Let’s figure out where we’re at first.”
What excites me most is helping preserve and grow small businesses that may not otherwise have a succession plan. There are so many good businesses in Northeast Wisconsin whose owners are ready to retire, and we love helping continue what they’ve built while creating new opportunities for employees and families.
Leah: I want to make Project SIX bigger.
I want it to be something that continues long into the future and reaches even more first responders and families. I also want to do more for youth aging out of foster care because I’ve been there and understand how important support can be. Ultimately, I want people to know they have someone in their corner.
What would you tell your younger self to inspire her?
Kristin: Take more chances.
I wish I would have studied abroad. I wish I had worried less about getting everything right. Looking back, I’d tell myself not to be afraid to fail, to stay curious, and to keep learning. Some of the most meaningful growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone and trust yourself.
Melissa: Keep going.
Keep your faith. Trust God’s plan. Even in really dark places, those experiences can shape you and refine you into a better version of yourself. Looking back, some of my most difficult seasons taught me lessons I never could have learned otherwise.
Dawn: Keep focused on your goals.
I always had big goals for myself and kept setting new ones every time I reached another milestone. Looking back, I would tell my younger self: keep focused on the big goals you set for yourself, because you’re going to accomplish all of them and then some.
Andrea: Believe in yourself and trust yourself.
Don’t be afraid to try new things, and don’t worry so much about what everyone else might say or do. Find out who you are, know your strengths, and believe in them. You can make a difference just by being who you are.
Amy: Take advantage of every opportunity.
You never know which person you’ll meet, what experience you’ll have, or how a situation will impact your life years down the road. Every little connection matters. Stay open to possibilities, trust your gut, and surround yourself with good people. Things may not always make sense in the moment, but they often come full circle.
Leah: Don’t be so angry. People are only trying to help you.
For a long time, I was upset because life didn’t seem fair. Looking back now, I realize everything I went through shaped who I am. There is light at the end of the tunnel, and the impact I’ve been able to make in the lives of others outweighs the difficult things I experienced growing up.
This article was originally published in the September 2026 issue of Appleton Monthly Magazine.
