Alverno College Honors Three for Outstanding Philanthropy

Alverno College will honor two alumnae and one friend of the college for their philanthropic contributions to Alverno and the community during the college’s Celebration of Giving event Nov. 6. The annual event, which will be held virtually this year, is a recognition of those who have generously given their time and financial support to the college. Students who have received scholarships will have the opportunity to thank their benefactors through a video presentation. Because the event takes place just before First-Generation College Student Day, celebrated on Nov. 8, a panel of first-generation students will also share their experiences.

Ascension Wisconsin will receive the Bene Award, given to individuals and organizations who have demonstrated exemplary commitment to Alverno through gift support of the college’s programs, operations and capital endeavors. Both Ascension and Alverno are grounded in Catholic and Franciscan values, and that relationship helps to amplify our existing clinical relationship and to further develop a skilled, mission-driven workforce that will help meet the needs of the state's rapidly evolving healthcare environment. As part of the strategic alliance forged between the two institutions in 2019, the Columbia College of Nursing (CCON) became a part of Alverno in the summer of 2020, with 73 students welcomed to Alverno in the fall.

Joan Wilde ‘59, of Waukesha, Wis., will receive the Golden Jubilarian Award, awarded to an alumna celebrating more than 50 years as an Alverno graduate and who has been committed to philanthropy and service throughout her life. Joan has supported Alverno since 1979, and established the Joan Wilde Annual Scholarship, helping numerous students realize their dreams of a college education. Wilde joined the School Sisters of St. Francis in 1948 and graduated from Alverno with a business education degree in 1959. She taught in elementary and high schools and then served as a career counselor at the college level, focused on preparing women for successful careers.

Kristine Obrecht is the recipient of the Ambassador Award, which is bestowed upon an alumna or friend who has given time and talents in support of the college and has demonstrated distinguished service. Obrecht has been on the Alverno Board of Trustees since 2008 and has served on numerous committees, including chairing the audit committee. She is passionate about women’s education and brings that passion to her volunteer work and to her workplace. Obrecht is an audit partner at Deloitte and Touche where she led the company’s women’s initiative for four years, helping to prepare women for partnership and promotion to managing director roles.