WHLA Welcomes New Leaders: Announcing the 2025 Board of Directors and Volunteer Leaders

​The Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association (WHLA) is pleased to announce its 2025 Board of Directors and Executive Committee, as elected during the 2024 Annual Meeting held on November 4 at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells. This leadership team will play a crucial role in guiding the association's efforts to support and advance the lodging industry in Wisconsin.

Lodging Directors

The Nominations Committee has put forward seven individuals from hotel and lodging properties in Wisconsin for consideration to serve on the WHLA Board of Directors for three-year terms commencing in January 2025. These recommendations received approval through a member vote. 

• Justin Behling
• Michael Carstedt
• Cory LaTourell
• Larry Robe
• Brandon McConnell
• Tonya Prosser
• Todd Winker

Executive Committee

The Executive Committee, elected by the board during a meeting on October 30, will serve one-year terms. We are excited to welcome the following members to their new roles:

• Board Chair: Rory Madsen
• Chair-Elect: Amy Boston
• Vice Chair: Victor Ravago
• Secretary/Treasurer: Krissy Sigmund
• DEI Delegate: Amy Supple
• Advocacy Delegate: Katie Neufeld
• Past Chair: Jay Schumerth

​We extend our gratitude to Jay Schumerth for his outstanding leadership as Chair in 2024 and look forward to his continued contributions to the WHLA Board of Directors on the Executive Committee.

Associate Directors

​Kim Brown and Scott Schultz have been elected as Associate Directors for a two-year term, bringing valuable industry perspectives to the board.

Committee and Task Force Chairs

The following individuals have been appointed to lead key committees and task forces:

• Executive Committee: Rory Madsen
• Nominating Committee: Amy Boston
• Room Tax Task Force: Jay Schumerth
• Membership Committee: Dave Sekeres
• Legislative/Tourism Committee: Victor Ravago
• Legislative Action Task Force: Victor Ravago
• Education Conference: Sara Abbott
• Awards Committee: Sara Abbott
• Publications Committee: Ryan Batley
• WWIL Steering Committee: Krissy Sigmund
• Workplace Culture Task Force: Brandon McConnell
• Tourism Public Improvement District Task Force: Larry Robe
• Governance Task Force: Larry Robe

The Importance of WHLA Board Leadership

​The WHLA Board of Directors plays a vital role in shaping the future of Wisconsin's lodging industry. Comprised of experienced professionals from various property types and sizes across the state, the board brings diverse perspectives to address the challenges and opportunities facing our industry.

Meeting quarterly, the board works diligently to fulfill WHLA's mission and ensure that the association's policies effectively meet the needs of its members. Their leadership is instrumental in advocating for the industry, providing educational resources, and fostering networking opportunities that strengthen the lodging community in Wisconsin.

Under the guidance of this exceptional group of leaders, WHLA continues to support members in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the hospitality industry.

We congratulate all newly elected and appointed leaders and look forward to a productive and successful year ahead for the Wisconsin Hotel & Lodging Association.

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