The retreat was held from February 29 to March 1, and participants were in high spirits, buoyed by the sense of community and shared experiences. The event was planned by the WWIL Steering Committee, WHLA’s Vice President Monica Goeke, CAE, and the team at The Stella Hotel & Ballroom, led by Michael Carstedt. Chula Vista Resort, the Kimpton Journeyman Hotel, Royal Basket Trucks, and Sid Grinker Restoration, and Spectrum Enterprise provided sponsorship support.
Wine Dinner featuring Simi Winery
WWIL Steering Committee Chair Krissy Sigmund (Chula Vista Resort) welcomed the group to the evening's events and toasted to an evening of friendship and fellowship. Then, a representative from Badger Liquor Co. shared the story of Isabelle Simi and Simi Winery. The chef at The Stella created four courses, each of which was paired with a specially selected wine from Simi winery, which was described before each course. During dinner, the sponsors drew prizes, and five lucky attendees won. At the conclusion of the meal, the group recognized the staff and convened in the bar area.
Scholarship Drive
During the dinner event, the attendees generously donated to the newly established WWIL Career Development Scholarships. These scholarships will be awarded for the first time at the 2024 Wisconsin Lodging Conference in November. The evening's fundraising event was a huge success, raising over $1,300, which is the highest amount collected in the history of the WWIL.
Balancing Career Ambitions and Life Priorities
On Friday, the presentations kicked off with a powerful visual representation of women who juggle multiple priorities. Sharon Sykes from the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA) provided an overview of the upcoming AHLA ForWard Conference and shared a highlight from the 2023 programming.
During her presentation “Balancing Career Ambitions and Life Priorities,” Sharon gave Sarah Green (Best Western Premier Madison ) a yellow balloon to represent her career ambition and told her to keep it in the air. Sharon then asked Sarah about her other priorities such as taking care of her family, doing her day job, and spending time with friends. For each priority, Sharon added a blue balloon to the yellow balloon, symbolizing how women try to juggle many things. The balloons were added until the yellow balloon fell, reminding women never to drop their career ambition. The visual representation was a powerful reminder that women need support and community to keep all the balls in the air. 
Leadership Insights from Senator Agard
To close out the event, Senator Melissa Agard shared her personal journey to becoming a legislator. She emphasized the significance of having female voices at the decision-making table. Agard was first elected to represent the 48th District in November 2012 and is now serving her fifth term in the Wisconsin State Legislature. Her district covers parts of eastern Dane County. Attendees of the event were inspired by the Senator's story and had the opportunity to ask questions about issues impacting women across the state.
Attendee Feedback
“What an absolutely wonderful event to share our stories, ideas, and accomplishments.” Mary Anne Ceraso-Alioto (Spectrum Enterprise)
“A great event!! Breakfast and speakers the next morning provided great insight.” Cindy Lapadiakis (Royal Basket Trucks) “Such a rewarding experience, I am so honored to have been in attendance.” Amber Smith (Kimpton Journeyman Hotel) “It was a fabulous event and I look forward to the opportunity to attend more in the future!” Jessica Brooks (White Lodging) About the Wisconsin Women in Lodging
About The Stella Hotel & Ballroom
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