As Wisconsin Women in Government (WWIG) prepares to celebrate four decades of supporting and advancing women in public service, the organization is welcoming a new slate of leaders who will help carry that legacy into its next chapter.

Founded in 1987, WWIG is a statewide, bipartisan nonprofit organization that brings together women working across government, public service, and related fields. For 40 years, the organization has created opportunities for women to build relationships, strengthen their leadership skills, and support one another while investing in future generations through scholarships, professional development, mentorship, and networking.

New Board Members

WWIG welcomes an accomplished group of leaders whose experience spans state and local government, higher education, transportation, workforce development, and public policy:

  • Jeanne Duffy, Wisconsin Women’s Council
  • Julia Halopka, Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development
  • Biltu Hamda, Milwaukee County Transit System
  • Mandy Mayek, Wisconsin Technical College System
  • Anna Mercer, Office of Governor Tony Evers
  • Amy Moreland, Office of Governor Tony Evers
  • Melanie Platt-Gibson, University of Wisconsin-Platteville
  • Megan Stritchko, Wisconsin Technical College System

Together, these new members bring fresh perspectives and expertise to WWIG’s statewide network of women committed to strengthening public service and creating opportunities for women to lead.

WWIG also recognizes its returning Board members, whose continued leadership, service, and institutional knowledge will help the organization honor its history while building toward its future.

2026-2027 Executive Committee

Leading WWIG into its 40th anniversary year is Erin Smith, who will serve as President. Smith is joined by the following members of the Executive Committee:

  • Erin Smith, President
  • Sydney Andersen, Vice President
  • Emily Petersen, Past President
  • Sherri Voigt, Treasurer
  • Richelle Andrae, Secretary
  • Allison Cramer, Member-at-Large
  • Carrie Schneider, Member-at-Large

“Serving as President during Wisconsin Women in Government’s 40th anniversary is an incredible honor,” said Smith. “For four decades, WWIG has been a place where women in public service can find community, build their skills, open doors for one another, and grow as leaders. That legacy exists because generations of women have given their time, talent, and energy to this organization. As we celebrate everything WWIG has accomplished over the past 40 years, I’m excited to work alongside our Board to build on that foundation and ensure WWIG continues creating opportunities for the women who will lead Wisconsin for decades to come.”

WWIG will commemorate its 40th anniversary throughout the coming year by celebrating the women who have shaped the organization, recognizing its impact over four decades, and continuing its work to support the next generation of women in public service.