Wisconsin Women in Government Gala

media release: Wisconsin Women in Government (WWIG), a statewide, bipartisan, non-profit organization, will host the Annual Scholarship & Recognition Gala at Monona Terrace Community & Convention Center on Wednesday, April 29, 2026 from 5:00-8:00 p.m. The annual event draws elected and appointed leaders, advocates and lobbyists, legislative staffers, and others working in and with all levels and branches of local, state, and federal government.

"This event is a celebration of the women who lead, advocate, and drive change, both within government and in the many roles that support and shape public policy," said WWIG President Emily Petersen. "Their contributions are essential to a strong and effective government at every level."

The event features a keynote speaker, presentation of the Legacy and Rising Star Awards, acknowledgement of 2025-2026 WWIG scholarship recipients, and silent auction. Registration includes a heavy appetizer buffet, and a cash bar is available. The event is open to all and sponsorships are available.

Jill Karofsky, chief justice of the Wisconsin Supreme Court, will serve as the keynote speaker for the 2026 WWIG Gala.

The Rising Star Award will be presented to Lauren Lanza, Crisis Coordinator with Waukesha County Health and Human Services, in recognition of her leadership and impact in her career. Since beginning her public service work in 2016, Lanza has played a key role in transforming crisis response systems in Wisconsin. She helped launch Waukesha County’s embedded mental health clinician program within law enforcement, recognized with a statewide innovation award, and now oversees a Crisis Stabilization facility, a 24/7 crisis team, and multiple co-responder programs. Her leadership in integrating crisis response with 911 dispatch and the 988 Lifeline is helping reshape how communities respond to behavioral health emergencies.

The Legacy Award will be presented to Julie Ahnen, Child Protective Services (CPS) Manager with the Dane County Department of Human Services, honoring her more than four decades of service and lasting impact on child welfare systems. Ahnen has been a driving force in shifting child protective services toward preventative, family-centered approaches, helping reduce reliance on foster care while strengthening support for families. A leader in advancing equity, she has championed efforts to address racial disparities and improve accountability through data-driven decision-making. Her work implementing Family First Prevention Services Act standards and mentoring generations of social workers has left an enduring mark on public service in Wisconsin.

The 2025 Virginia Hart Award winner is Samina Grimes with Department of Workforce Development. Samina “Sam” Grimes is an exceptional public servant whose career embodies the dedication, compassion, and leadership celebrated by the Virginia Hart Award. Known for her unwavering integrity, warmth, and accountability, Sam consistently exceeds expectations, whether mentoring new staff, advancing innovative vocational rehabilitation programs, or supporting individuals and families with complex needs. Her broad professional experience, from counseling to benefits work to leading key initiatives like IPS and Project SEARCH, reflects her commitment to creating equitable, person-centered pathways to success. Beyond her formal roles, she has spent more than two decades caring for vulnerable individuals through her Adult Family Home, serving as a guardian, supporting community members in crisis, and offering guidance far beyond the bounds of her job. Sam's humanity, forward-thinking leadership, and lifelong dedication to uplifting others have made a profound and lasting impact across Wisconsin.

“Lauren, Julie, and Sam represent the very best of public service,” said Petersen. “Each of them is making a meaningful impact, strengthening systems, supporting families, and improving outcomes across Wisconsin. From crisis response to child welfare to workforce development, their leadership is helping shape stronger communities statewide, and we’re proud to recognize their work.”

For more information, please visit wiscwomeningovernment.org/events.