Woman's Club of Wisconsin Board of Directors

President - Deborah Patel

" Each member of the Club follows her own path to our doors. I joined in 2000 because I needed a meeting place for my personal charitable work. Then I found new friends over lunch while discussing books from the classical literature canon. An American History Study Group opened more doors to friendship and knowledge, over the best breakfast ever. Our philanthropic work helped me see an even broader world, plus I had more fine meals and met more friends. Each of our members has her own Club story. I am humbled by the opportunity to lead a Club that, since 1876, has been a home for the friendly, thoughtful, and socially conscious women of the greater Milwaukee area." - Debbie Patel

Kathy Pederson - President Elect

"To me the Club is all about friendships and learning. Even if I walk through the doors alone, I know I will encounter many intelligent, accomplished, interesting, and friendly women. During my 10 years of membership I have developed relationships through my participation in several groups and committees, including Bridge, Antiques Study Group, Garden Club, Book Club, Grant Allocation, Finance, Investments, Programs, Strategic Planning, and now on the Board. In addition, I always learn something new from the wide variety of excellent daytime, evening, and weekend programs." - Kathy Pederson

Treasurer - Joy Towell

“The Woman’s Club has enriched my life. I have been a member since 2014. I have gained many wonderful new friends. I have enjoyed the varied program offerings and especially the travel opportunities.” – Joy Towell

Secretary - Kathy Grogan

"Club membership for me has meant entering a place of beauty with an incredible history. It has also meant being in the company of extraordinary women in an atmosphere of conviviality and good cheer. I am pleased to be the Club’s Secretary and to be the coordinator of the Club’s Classics Book Club, which has over the years read hundreds of books from the canon of classic literature."- Kathy Grogan

Membership - Rita Larsen

"Nothing is more uplifting than seeing my friends and colleagues at the Club. I have been a member since 2004 and I have taken a more active role in recent years, with more time to give and less involvement in other places. Women today have these options. My dream would be to have met our early founders; to talk about their dreams, and to hear their dreams for helping to contribute to Milwaukee’s growth and development on so many different levels. For an inspiring experience, come to the Woman’s Club of Wisconsin."- Rita Larsen

Community Outreach - Lydia Cooley

"I serve as the chair of Community Outreach Committee, where a lively mix of new and experienced members develops service opportunities as a means of WCW member engagement with the broader Milwaukee community. Each time I make the drive from my home in Cedarburg to the Club, I find engagement with WCW members and guests attending varied programs on wide-ranging issues and topics of interest and performances while enjoying delicious meals from the chef’s kitchen. My Club tables vary but have included Grant Allocation, Garden Club, Art and Antiques Study Group, and the Travel Corner, which finds itself seated at many destinations in the US and beyond. What is guaranteed at all is good conversation and laughter."- Lydia Cooley

Foundation - Carrie Matteson

"I am so honored to chair the WCW Foundation. This Foundation is what truly sets this Club apart from so many other organizations. Annually the Foundation gives out grants to approximately 25 to 30 smaller nonprofits in the Greater Milwaukee area. Our Grant Allocation Day is really the “Club’s Finest Hour.”- Carrie Matteson

Historic Building - Mary Connelly

"The Historic Building chair is a new position with great potential. We plan to study our historic structure while committing ourselves to improving the lovely interior aesthetics that welcome all our members and guests. Twenty years ago I joined the Club with women who took great pride in strengthening our community. My enthusiasm continues as I’m fortunate to work with smart, dedicated, and imaginative people with fantastic wit!" – Mary Connelly

Marketing & Communications - Amy Schneider

"When I joined the Club in 2011, I became a member of the Marketing Committee and immediately loved getting to know the other committee members and working together with the incredible women who are part of this Club. We are passionate about bettering our community through friendship, learning, and service."- Amy Schneider