Starting in 1956 with the William C. Frye Award, the Greater Milwaukee Foundation has honored civic leaders in greater Milwaukee through its annual Greater Together Awards. Over the years, the awards have expanded to include the Frank Kirkpatrick Award, the Doug Jansson Leadership Award and the Ellen Gilligan Leadership in Racial Equity and Social Justice Award.
The awards recognize individuals who help shape greater Milwaukee into an inclusive, equitable and vibrant region where everyone can thrive. Foundation staff, past recipients, Board members and advisory groups, made up of community members, submit nominations, and the Foundation’s Awards Committee selects the recipients. Judge Pedro Colón served as chair of the committee and DeVona Wright Cottrell served as vice chair for the 2025 selection process.
This year’s recipients include:
- William C. Frye Award: Roger and Cindy Schaus
Roger and Cindy Schaus feel passionate about individuals with special needs, education and food insecurity. This passion informs their board service, committee membership and volunteering. - Frank Kirkpatrick Award: Danell Cross and Melody McCurtis
Danell Cross and Melody McCurtis of Metcalfe Park Community Bridges are committed to empowering their neighbors. Their engagement fuels physical and social change. - Doug Jansson Leadership Award: Dr. Victor Amaya
Dr. Victor Amaya, executive director of Data You Can Use, believes that data can transform communities by informing decisions and creating opportunities. - Ellen Gilligan Leadership in Racial Equity and Social Justice Award: Pardeep Kaleka
Pardeep Kaleka is dedicated to fostering a safer community for everyone. As a bridge builder and peacemaker, he seeks to bring diverse communities together.
Honored earlier this year:
- Jackie Herd-Barber Award: Eleazar Lopez Jr.
Eleazar Lopez feels motivated by his experiences to pour into community to strengthen educational opportunities in Milwaukee and build equity. - Herbert J. Mueller Outstanding Professional Adviser of the Year: Jennifer Lasky
Jennifer Lasky works with clients to become change agents in their community by finding their ‘why.’
Congratulations to this year’s awardees. Your impact is reflected throughout greater Milwaukee.
Read stories about each Greater Together Award honoree here.