WWIL Retreat Recap: Over 40 Women, Laughter, and Generosity in Action

The Wisconsin Women in Lodging (WWIL) Retreat brought together over 40 women from across the state’s lodging industry for a memorable evening of connection, learning, and celebration. Held from Thursday evening through Friday morning at the beautiful Kimpton Journeyman Hotel, the retreat offered the perfect balance of professional growth, community, and fun.

From the moment participants arrived, the energy was one of warmth, support, and inspiration. Women from different roles and career stages shared stories, ideas, and experiences—reminding everyone that the strength of our industry lies in the people who lift each other up.

Thursday evening kicked off with lively tunes from a DJ, setting the tone for a night of connection and celebration. Dinner was a true highlight: Dani Zarr, Certified Sommelier, guided the group through a thoughtfully paired menu, sharing the stories of the woman-owned wineries behind each wine. 

​During dinner, the group also had the honor of celebrating Amy Simchak, WWIL’s founder, for her incredible leadership since 2013. Monica Goeke from WHLA provided remarks about Amy’s impact — “The Wisconsin Women in Lodging exists because you believed women in our industry deserved something more.”

After dinner, laughter filled the room as attendees played Bunco and won fun prizes donated by the Kimpton Journeyman Hotel, Sid Grinker Restoration, Spectrum Enterprises, and other group supporters. 

​Friday morning began with breakfast and an energizing workshop, “Leading with Presence: Aligning Image, Confidence & Credibility”, led by Jennifer Mell, CMP. The session focused on stepping into confidence, aligning professional image with ambition, and navigating dress codes from casual Fridays to formal events—leaving attendees with practical tools to make lasting impressions in any setting.

A highlight of the retreat was the generosity of attendees, with every donation matched by Krissy Sigmund. Together, attendees raised over $5,000, supporting WWIL initiatives including:

• Mentorship Program: Helps mentees participate in WWIL programs, events, and growth opportunities.
• Career Development Scholarships: Supports education and professional development through the Moxie and Amplify Awards.
• Kari Zambon Memorial Scholarship: Honors Kari’s legacy by supporting future professionals in lodging and tourism.

Every dollar raised will directly empower women across Wisconsin’s lodging industry, helping them connect, grow, and succeed in their careers.

The Wisconsin Women in Lodging is a female-focused organization, a chapter of WHLA, and a state affiliate of the American Hotel & Lodging Association. WWIL gives female hoteliers and their allies the opportunity to connect with industry leaders, gain career momentum, and be inspired to contribute to Wisconsin’s lodging industry. Today, the organization proudly has over 200 members, and the retreat was a reminder of the strength and spirit of this community.

Thank you to everyone who attended, celebrated, and contributed—together, we’re building a stronger, more connected, and empowered hospitality community.