Wisconsin Women in Government Annual Scholarship & Recognition Gala
Growing Alliances in Leadership & Advocacy

📅 Date: Wednesday, April 30, 2025 | 📍 Location: Monona Terrace, Madison, WI | ⏰ Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
🎟 Tickets: $80 | 📝 Registration: https://forms.gle/AfJa62kn9ddaCZtc9 |👗 Attire: Business/Cocktail

Join Us for an Evening of Celebration & Connection!

Join Wisconsin Women in Government (WWIG) for our Annual Scholarship & Recognition GALA—an evening dedicated to Growing Alliances in Leadership & Advocacy. This special event brings together professionals, leaders, and allies from across Wisconsin to recognize outstanding women in government, support the next generation of leaders through scholarships, and strengthen networks that empower women in public service.

What to Expect

🎤Keynote Speaker! – We are pleased to announce that Lt. Colonel Olga Custodio, USAF (Retired), America’s First Latina Fighter Pilot, STEM Advocate, and author, will be our keynote speaker. Lt. Colonel Custodio has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to achieving results that inspire others and drive positive change. The first Latina to complete U.S. Air Force Undergraduate Pilot Training and graduate in the top 5% of her class (of 48) with a fighter qualification to fly the T-38 as an instructor pilot, Lt. Colonel Olga E. Custodio points to three principles that have helped her become successful in a profession dominated by men: overcoming self-doubt, staying open to possibilities, and seeing herself as an equal.   

🥂 Networking Reception – Connect with leaders and peers from across the state.
🍽 Heavy Hors d’Oeuvres & Cash Bar – Enjoy a delicious selection of hors d’oeuvres with beverages available for purchase.
🏆 Awards & Recognition – Honoring women making an impact in government, including:

• Rising Star Award Recipient: Michelle “Shelley” Wynveen
  

Wisconsin Women in Government is proud to recognize Michelle “Shelley” Wynveen as the 2025 Rising Star Award recipient. A United States Marine Corps veteran and passionate public servant, Michelle has dedicated her career to uplifting veterans and their families across Wisconsin.

From her roots in New Berlin as one of sixteen siblings to her decorated military service and current role as Calumet County Veterans Service Officer, Michelle has consistently demonstrated leadership, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to those who served. Her advocacy extends statewide through her role with the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers Women’s Committee, where she champions support for women veterans.

With advanced degrees in psychology and criminal justice—and a doctorate in progress—Michelle embodies the spirit of innovation and continuous improvement in public service. We are honored to celebrate her contributions and rising leadership.

• Legacy Award Recipient: Eve Galanter

Wisconsin Women in Government is honored to present the 2025 Legacy Award to Eve Galanter in recognition of her extraordinary contributions to public service, civic engagement, and women’s leadership across Wisconsin.

Over the past four decades, Eve has built a legacy of impact—from leading the Democratic Party of Wisconsin to serving on the Madison City Council, directing Senator Herb Kohl’s regional office, and offering strategic guidance to countless organizations. Her influence spans government, media, advocacy, and philanthropy.

Eve’s enduring commitment to advancing women in leadership is evident through her work with the Wisconsin Women’s Network Policy Institute, the Madison Civics Club, and her founding of the Wisconsin Civics Games. Her leadership has shaped organizations including the UW-Madison Hillel Foundation, the YWCA Madison Foundation, TEMPO Madison, and WWIG itself.

A tireless advocate and respected mentor, Eve continues to serve her community as President of the Capital Times Kids Fund and on multiple boards. Her many honors reflect a lifetime of service and an unwavering belief in the power of civic participation. We are proud to celebrate Eve Galanter’s remarkable legacy.

Showcase Your Support – Sponsor Wisconsin Women in Government!

Join us in supporting the next generation of women leaders by sponsoring the Wisconsin Women in Government Gala. Your sponsorship helps fund scholarships, mentorship programs, and professional development opportunities—creating lasting impact for women pursuing careers in public service.

Sponsoring this event is also a wonderful way to demonstrate your organization’s commitment to leadership and public service while connecting with a community that values progress and empowerment.

Together, we can uplift and inspire the women shaping Wisconsin’s future. To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, reach out to us at wwigquestions@gmail.com.