President’s Page

A headshot of a woman with blonde shoulder length hair and a large smileWinter 2025

Welcome to AAUW- Wisconsin!

The start of the new year occurs in the midst of the darkest time. We humans chose January 1 as the start because it’s the beginning of movement toward the light. Symbolic. Intentional. Motivating. It is a good time for all of us to renew our commitment to enlightenment, values, and our dedication to good works and self-development.  In spite of negativity in a world in chaos – it is up to us to pursue the light. In times of darkness this becomes even clearer.

AAUW works to remove barriers for women and girls achieving higher education and further their economic security through nonpartisan, fact-based, principled, inclusive, and intersectional action. We recognize that raising women and girls up by pushing others down does nothing for the betterment of society. Our aim is for equity for all, through education and advocacy, emphasizing empowerment. We value diversity (age, race, gender, skills, and so forth), and civil, respectful engagement.

AAUW-WI offers opportunities for action, engagement in public policy, scholarship fund raising, local & national projects, providing intellectually stimulating mission-based programing and camaraderie with other interesting and caring people. We are connected with 22 Branches, within 5 districts, throughout the State of Wisconsin, with 1500 members. We will soon offer a virtual Branch connection for members. We also collaborate with other like-minded individuals and groups within our communities in support of our initiatives.

All of you are invited to attend our April 17-18, 2026 Convention, FORWARD: Empower, Inspire, Connect in Madison, Wisconsin. Many dynamic and consequential leaders will join us, including Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Janet C. Protasiewicz, along with a panel of Rep Karen DeSanto (D) of the 40th District (Baraboo), Rep Brienne Brown (D) of the 43rd District (Whitewater) and Rep Ann Roe (D) of the 44th District (Janesville). Feel inspired by Willow Neville, Miss Wisconsin. Learn more on important topics. Connect with people who care about things like you do. Check our website for regular updates and registration beginning soon.

Want to learn more about AAUW?

Envisioning a stronger and brighter future together,

Deb Thiel
AAUW-Wisconsin State President