Thank you to everyone who attended the 2026 Executive Excellence Awards!
Executive Excellence
The Executive Excellence Awards recognize outstanding leaders in finance and human resources whose work helps drive their organizations forward. The event honors professionals who demonstrate strong leadership, innovation, and a commitment to excellence.
Event Information
2026 Finalists and Winners (in bold)
HR FINALISTS
Rising Star:
- Jackie Aguilar, Attic Angel
- Ashley Kowalchuk, Iconica
Large Business:
- AnnMarie Kreitzer, TDS Telecom
Executive:
- Kari Davis, Lake Ridge Bank
- John Lange, Veridian Homes
- Mark Schuster, Rural Mutual Insurance Company
FINANCE FINALISTS
Rising Star:
- Rachel Schultz, TDS Telecom
Public Sector:
- Carolyn Clow, Alliant Energy Center
- Marc DeVries, Jefferson County
- Sylvia Ramirez, Madison College
Small Business:
- Matt Altenberger, Wind River Payments
- Wes Kane, Thompson Kane & Company, Inc
- Kristi Khan, Threshold Development Group, Threshold Builds
Large Business:
- Elizabeth Holmstrom, Starion Bank
Executive:
- Robert Durian, Alliant Energy
- Steve Kelley, Choreo
- Tom Newell, ETE Reman
- Lisa Wiedenfeld, Sound Devices
Partners
Presenting Partner
Major Partners
Supporting Partner
2025 Photo Gallery
