Page 19 - WMC 2025 Annual Report

Dan Carey, Trustee since 2025
Dan Carey graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point and was commissioned as
a field artillery officer in the 4th Infantry Division. Dan served in Kuwait as part of Operation Intrinsic
Action. Following the Army, Dan received an MBA from Marquette University. Dan is the co-owner of
RBP Chemical Technology and the founder of the Whitefish Bay Memorial Day Ceremony.
Berdie Cowser, Trustee since 2020
Berdie Cowser holds a PhD in Educational Leadership and is a seasoned executive leader with extensive
experience in veterans services, housing, and community development. She began her military journey
in high school and later became a commissioned officer in the U.S. Army and Army Reserves. Berdie is
featured in the I Am Not Invisible traveling exhibit, which highlights the leadership and lived experiences
of women veterans.
Joshua Davis, Trustee since 2022
Josh Davis is the Senior Director for Services Training, Facilities, EHS and Training Safety for General
Electric HealthCare. He served 28-years in all three Army components retiring from the U.S. Army at
Fort Moore (formerly Fort Benning), Georgia. Josh served in multiple capacities during his career across
combat arms and The U.S. Army Medical Department Regiment across the globe.
Robert “Bert” Garvin, Trustee since 2018
Bert Garvin is VP of External Affairs for WEC Energy Group. He leads the company’s legislative and
regulatory affairs at the federal, state and local levels. Bert served in the Wisconsin Army National
Guard and is an Iraq War veteran. He holds Bachelor of Arts and Juris Doctor degrees from the
University of Wisconsin Madison.
Eugene Manzanet, Trustee since 2023
Eugene Manzanet, Ph.D. is the Senior Director of Diverse Business Development for the Wisconsin
Economic Development Corporation. Eugene serves on numerous nonprofit boards and advisory
councils throughout the Milwaukee area. He served as a mayoral appointment as the vice-chairman of
the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District.
Bill Nasgovitz, Trustee since 2025
Bill Nasgovitz is founder of Heartland Advisors, Inc., serving as Chairman and Portfolio Manager
for the Heartland Value Fund and Small Cap Value Strategy. He proudly served in the United
States Air Force, attaining the rank of Captain. Bill is deeply committed to community service and
Free Enterprise Education at his alma mater, Milwaukee Lutheran High School & St. Augustine
Preparatory Academy. Bill is married for 55 years to his wife, Marian, and has five children and seven
grandchildren. In his leisure time, Bill enjoys gardening and golf.
Jean Ruka, Trustee since June 2014
Jean Ruka graduated from Alverno College with a degree in Medical Technology; entering the U.S.
Army during the Vietnam War under the CASP Program. Jean served as enlisted and was eventually
commissioned as an officer. Jean has been affiliated with numerous Veteran organizations.
WMC
STAFF
Co Nguyen
President & CEO
Laurie Kildegaard
Chief Operating Officer
Vicki Chappell
Chief Strategy &
Program Officer
Sean Clark
Program Director
Gina Leszcynski
Event Manager
Mark Waldoch
Accountant
Jenna Johnson
Administrative Assistant
Nanette Prendergast
Development Assistant
Armando Herrera
Facilities Manager
Brandon James
Event Staff
Ivan Mischker
Event Staff
HONOR THE DEAD – SERVE THE LIVING
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