Retired Educators at state convention | Free News | news-shield.com
On Sept. 25-27, more than 120 retired educators gathered at the Tundra Lodge Resort and Conference Center in Green Bay to attend the 72nd annual convention of the Wisconsin Retired Educator’s Association (WREA). The theme of this year’s event was “LEAD Fearlessly, EMBRACE Innovation, and EMERGE Stronger.”
John Osterloth of Rice Lake was inducted as President of the state organization. Keith Kolpack, President of the local Barron County Retired Educators and Kathy Osterloth, Treasurer of BCREA served as delegates. Diane Willcenski, WREA Executive Director, shared the Strategic Plan – “Shaping Our Future Together.” Keynote Speaker was Dr. Michael Alexander, Chancellor of UW-Green Bay. He emphasized that post-secondary education needs to be accessible. He is an advocate for the student who thinks they can’t afford to further their education. He showed how UW-Green Bay is an instrumental part of the communities of Northeast Wisconsin.
Other presenters included 2023 Wisconsin Teacher of the Year – Lori Danz of the Superior School District. Danz is a K-12 Environmental Science Coordinator utilizing the Superior School District’s School Forest. Dawn Heath-Fiedler, Founder and President of “Join the Movement,” made attendees aware of human trafficking in all of Wisconsin’s 72 counties and how it can be stopped.
Kay Dragan, Curator of Door County’s Maritime Museum, shared information of local shipwrecks in Door County waters. Jennie Young, Associate Professor of UW-Green Bay, demonstrated the use of AI– Artificial Intelligence – in an English writing classroom. Courtney Anclam, Senior Program Specialist of AARP Wisconsin, shared emerging trends in scams and how to fight against fraud.
Collin Mettelka, Attorney at Law, talked about crucial aspects of estate planning. Amina Makhdoom, of Fresnel Consulting, shared ideas on how to increase membership and strategies on strengthening local chapters. Updates on the Wisconsin Employee Trust Funds were given, and representatives from SWIB – State of Wisconsin Investment Board also presented.
The Wisconsin Retired Educators’ Association is a non-partisan, independent organization with more than 8,500 members statewide and 59 local units. WREA has been recognized for its role in protecting the public pension fund, advocating for public education, and supporting the interests of senior citizens. In addition, members typically contribute more than $6 million worth of Community Service each year.
For more information about the local unit or the activities of retired educators, contact Keith Kolpack, President of the BCREA, at 715-418-0563.
Source: Retired Educators at state convention | Free News | news-shield.com
