Carla Rutley has resigned as executive director for the Waukesha County Action Network (WCAN) and is starting her own marketing company.
WCAN is a nonprofit organization comprised of community and business leaders who evaluate and recommend public policy improvements for Waukesha County and the region.
Rutley began as the original executive director of the organization when it was formed three years ago. She helped grow WCAN’s membership and helped with its committee work.
Rutley said she is most proud of helping to build a new organization that has earned a positive reputation in the community and among public policy leaders. She said WCAN creates changes that stimulate economic growth and prosperity in the county.
"When Carla told us she was leaving, we wished her well," said Margaret Farrow, founder and board chair of WCAN and former lieutenant governor of Wisconsin.
Rutley plans to pursue her Ph.D. in leadership and service at Cardinal Stritch University.
Upon completion of her Ph.D., she has several goals for the future, including: continuing her career as an adjunct professor at Cardinal Stritch; continuing her involvement with Tempo International, a women’s professional growth and networking group; and writing a book.
"Once I obtain my Ph.D., I intend to author a book on aspiring as a women leader, addressing career advancement, work gender issues and life/work balance issues,"
Rutley said.
Rutley has formed her own company, the Rutley Network Marketing Group. She said the company leverages the corporate and community connections among the group associates to provide unique marketing outreach plans designed for business and nonprofits to reach their business development, media and community relations objectives.
WCAN has formed a search committee for Rutley’s successor and has begun meeting with potential candidates, Farrow said.
"We are currently finalizing our decision for her replacement and hope to reach that decision in the near future," Farrow said.
