Business Address: 8301 Old Sauk Road, Middleton, WI 53562
Phone 608-662-8911
Email: claire.merkt@atticangel.org
Website: atticangel.org
Birthplace: Wauwatosa, Wis.
Partner’s Name: Mary Gernetzke
Education: Bachelor’s in social welfare, certified marketing professional
Claire, how long have you worked for Attic Angel?
I’m enjoying 11+ years at the Attic Angel Community, serving in various marketing and sales roles. With 11 years here, I’m still a “babe in the woods” as we have several people in key leadership roles with 15, 20, or 30-plus years with this organization.
We’re going to let you get an elevator speech out of your system straight away, given that you won’t be able to help yourself with your job title. Can you tell us a little about what the organization does?
As one of the oldest women’s philanthropic organizations in Wisconsin, the Attic Angel Association has donated more than $5.75 million in community outreach programs serving children and the elderly in Dane County. Serving about 350 residents, the Attic Angel Community offers so many great residential and service options for seniors, including independent living in ranch-style homes at Prairie Point, as well as apartments with services, assisted living, memory support, and skilled nursing and rehabilitation at Attic Angel Place. This is an amazing organization, and as director of marketing, I have the fun of making sure the universe – well, okay, at least Dane County – knows about the great things we do!
Who, outside Attic Angel, has influenced your career the most, and in what way?
A prior boss, who through lots of cuts and bruises forged my perseverance and integrity; and my partner, who has tirelessly encouraged me to do everything I do, and to do it well.
What do you read to help keep current?
Today’s world is filled with opportunities to learn. I’ll read anything someone recommends in the sales, marketing, and philanthropy venues and am growing my relationships in the social media groups with a focus on serving seniors.
Do you read for pleasure as well?
I try to read for pleasure at least a little every day.
Can you remember a recent title that might give us the flavor of what you like to read?
Recent reads … Killing Lincoln and Killing Kennedy. Everyone read the Grey trilogy, right?
Maybe … Can you think of a fictional character you would most like to be identified with?
It’s probably some imaginary character; altruistic, unconditionally loving, humorous, with perpetual energy, endless wisdom, and limitless resources … oh, and of course, a dreamer!
What was a personal high point in your career?
I remember the day I was offered a new job that paid over $25,000 a year. I was so proud!
When you were considering your options, early on, what were your career aspirations?
I always thought I would be either a nun or an 18-wheeler truck driver. Truth be told, I’ve always wanted to write children’s books. I also always wanted to run a little restaurant/art boutique. Who can explain why things change? I realized working in a “helping profession” was the fit for me, hence social work and then health care.
Have any bumps along the way?
As a teenager, I got a job in the concession stand at the county fair. Soon after opening, with a concession cart full of snowball syrup, cotton candy, and sticky treats, in came the wasps. I got stung and was taken to the emergency room. Imagine that – my boss said he didn’t need me back at work the next day! It was a long time ago, but I still remember thinking it wasn’t fair that he didn’t give me another chance. Life’s not always fair … you get up each day, maybe replay what you learned the day before, try to improve on the positives and to not repeat the mistakes, and focus on doing better, now that you know more than you did the day before.
Have you lived all of your life in Wisconsin?
I was born in the Milwaukee area, and my family moved to Fort Atkinson when I was a young teenager. As an adult, I moved from Fort Atkinson to Oconomowoc, and later to the Madison area.
What do you do “beyond the office” that brings you happiness or relaxation?
Travel – my mantra is “let’s go somewhere.” I’m equally happy going for a car ride around the neighborhood, or hitting the road or sky for a trip. I’m also happy planning travel for ANYONE else, so I probably should have added travel agent to my career options. It doesn’t take a lot to make me a happy soul … reading, golfing, a sunny day, any chance I have to be with family!
Family – anything you’d be willing to share about your family life?
I’ve always thought the best thing I could do with my life was to love another person well. That life’s connection with my partner, Mary, helps me be a better person for many others as well. We have two adult children and their families – thus far two grandchildren ages 18 months and 10 years. My mom, at age 91, is the most loving mother a person could have! Five brothers and sisters, and their collective families, too. I treasure that, as a family unit, we all have very different qualities, characteristics, interests, and antics.
You mentioned travel. What’s your favorite destination and what makes it special?
So many choices! The beach – whether it’s 80 degrees or 50 degrees, I’ll go barefoot so I can feel the sand between my toes. New York City at the holidays – it’s magical!
Have a long-range goal to achieve before leaving the organization?
Leave this company, this work? Why would I! I cherish being a part of an organization that truly touches people’s everyday lives. Nearly every day here, I can witness someone giving to another person, and see how personally rewarding this is! Senior housing and services is an ever-changing industry, and one of my aspirations is to continue to develop this industry’s focus on helping seniors make choices for an easier life, rather than just reacting to what life deals us. It’s a focus on helping others be good planners and more proactive. Perhaps less regulatory oversight can be a part of our future too?
Doubtful, but you’re the dreamer. … Can you, for our closing question, list three words you think best describe Claire Merkt?
Service-minded, intense, and proud – some call this last one “stubborn”!
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