Small Business Times, Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Winkel is WCAN's new executive director

The Waukesha County Action Network's (WCAN) board of directors has named Carol Winkel as the new executive director of the organization.

Winkel succeeds Carla Rutley, who recently resigned to pursue other career opportunities.
Winkel brings more than 16 years of experience in strategic community partnerships, program development, outreach, and project management to the WCAN. She has worked for the past eight years as director of governmental and community relations for Marquette University. She previously worked as the community projects manager for the Journal Broadcast Group's Milwaukee operations.

"Over the past three years, WCAN has built a solid foundation, has created tremendous momentum and has served as a catalyst for change in Waukesha County and the region," said Margaret Farrow, president of the WCAN. "We're so pleased that Carol has come on board to take our organization to the next level. She brings tremendous expertise that will help us to meet our organizational and program goals in the coming years."

"I'm honored to be working with such a dedicated group of public-minded leaders," Winkel said. "The development and growth in Waukesha County is exciting not only for the county itself, but the entire region. I look forward to focusing on building WCAN's network of leaders and strengthening its local and regional ties."

Officially established in 2005 following a year of strategic planning and development, the WCAN's mission is to evaluate unique and broad public policy issues, recommend improvements and drive action toward efficient and effective delivery of services. The organization currently concentrates its efforts on four focus areas: infrastructure, education, public safety, and arts and culture.