Meet a pair of participants in the new Next Wave+ program

Beginning last month, the Chamber launched Next Wave+ to build upon the success of the Next Wave program. Next Wave+ is an advanced professional development series for young professionals ready to take the next step in their leadership journey. This six-session series dives deeper into leadership, community understanding and cross-industry collaboration. Each session is designed to give participants executive-level insights, real-world perspectives and opportunities to connect with influential leaders shaping the region.

The Chamber will profile current participants in this blog, beginning with Casey Rogers and Lyssa Edwards:

Lyssa Edwards, Community Engagement & Development Coordinator, Performing Arts Foundation/The Grand Theater:

Your hometown: Hortonville, Wisconsin

What do you love about the Wausau area? I love the sense of community and welcome I felt when I moved to Wausau this past year. I’ve especially enjoyed spending time downtown visiting the locally owned businesses and discovering the wonderful arts and culture that Wausau has to offer!

If you could waive a magic wand and change one thing about the Wausau area, what would it be? I wish the potholes could be repaired at the speed that they are created! Unfortunately, I don’t think Wisconsin’s winters will ever allow for that.

What are you hoping to achieve by participating in the Next Wave+ program? I hope to deepen my understanding of Wausau’s history, growth, and future while building meaningful relationships with other young professionals. Through Next Wave+, I want to grow personally and professionally and become more actively engaged in the community that has already welcomed me so warmly.

Casey Rogers, Loan Servicing Team Lead, Peoples State Bank:

Hometown: Janesville, Wisconsin

What do you love about the Wausau area? I love all of the amazing opportunities for outdoor activities (in all seasons!). My family loves to spend time at Rib Mountain State Park, on any of the many local trails and we also love to take our daughter to JoJo’s Jungle!

If you could waive a magic wand and change one thing about the Wausau area, what would it be? I would love to see the farmers market move to the 400 block!

What are you hoping to achieve by participating in the Next Wave+ program? I am hoping to make new connections, learn more about Wausau, and grow in my leadership.

More details and a schedule for the Next Wave+ program are available on WausauChamber.com. The cost for members to participate in Next Wave+ is $300 annually.