Exciting Events added Michelle (Shelly) Bertholf to its staff as the nonprofit coordinator. She will assist nonprofits in transforming galas, walks and other events into vibrant arenas with innovative decor, one-of-a-kind lighting techniques and the best in audio and video. She will also spearhead the annual $100,000 in-kind donation program at Exciting Events while assisting non-profits in taking their events to the next level. Bertholf has been involved in nonprofits for seven years and continues to be an active member within our community. She serves on two boards including YP Impact and Strut 4 a Cure.
Basilica Foundation names new executive director
The board of directors of the St. Josaphat Basilica Foundation announces the appointment of its first full-time executive director, Susan Rabe.
“As the foundation expands its reach and presence within the Milwaukee community and beyond, we were looking for a business professional with a successful history of developing positive relationships and the energy and passion to continue our mission of preserving, restoring and enhancing the St. Josaphat Basilica,” said Michael Murry, chairman. “There are so many opportunities to share the Basilica and its heritage with the greater Milwaukee area residents and visitors to our city. Susan brings personal connection to the Basilica as well as her experience in leadership, management, marketing and public relations.”
Susan has 29 years of experience in business development and management consulting. She is transitioning from the for – profit sector having worked for the world’s largest risk/management consulting firm, heading up the Milwaukee risk and health care practice. She has a proven track record of building business and a strong background of fundraising and commitment to community through her volunteer leadership for Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, Archdiocese of Milwaukee, Rotary Club of Downtown Milwaukee and Milwaukee Achiever Literacy Services tutor and Board positions.
Vrakas Blum shareholder named to UW-Whitewater council
Brookfield-based public accounting and advisory firm Vrakas/Blum, S.C. announced that James Holmes, CPA, managing shareholder and president, has been named a board member of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater’s Charitable Gift Planning Advisory Council.
“As a graduate of UW-Whitewater, I am proud and honored to serve on the board of the Charitable Gift Planning Advisory Council,” said Holmes. “I am excited about my term as a board member and committed to helping maximize the value of donations made to this first-class institution.” Holmes, a 1984 graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, began his accounting career at Vrakas/Blum in 1985. As managing shareholder and president, he is responsible for key strategic management and decision-making activities for the firm. Holmes primarily focuses on providing strategic planning services to high net worth individuals and business owners.
