News & Events

UW-Whitewater Sales Team takes Individual 1st at 2025 International Collegiate Sales Competition

The University of Wisconsin–Whitewater (UWW) has once again proven its strength on the global stage, delivering an outstanding performance at the 2025 International Collegiate Sales Competition (ICSC)—one of the most prestigious collegiate sales competitions in the world.

ICSC brings together more than 80 top universities from the United States, Canada, and Europe, featuring 160 competitors in the Sales Role-Play event and over 350 students across the Perfect Pitch and Sales Management Case competitions. UW-Whitewater continued its tradition of excellence with a top-tier showing across all events. Representing UW-Whitewater were four students from the Institute for Sales Excellence:

● Michael Van Offeren (Junior, Finance BBA) – Sales Competition
● Lauryn Seidel (Junior, Management BBA) – Sales Competition
● Alana Lewis (Senior, Marketing BBA) – Perfect Pitch + Sales Management Case
● Abby Zimmerman (Junior, Marketing BBA) – Perfect Pitch + Sales Management Case

The team delivered exceptional results, with Michael Van Offeren earning 1st place overall in the Sales Role-Play competition, placing him at the very top among global competitors. Lauryn Seidel also advanced to the semi-finals, securing a position among the highest-performing students in the world. With strong performances by Alana Lewis and Abby Zimmerman in both the Perfect Pitch and Sales Management Case events, the UW-Whitewater team collectively earned placement in the Top 5 in the 2025 Collegiate World Cup of Sales University Ranking—a remarkable achievement that reinforces UWW’s reputation as a premier institution for sales education.

The team was led and coached by Dr. Pavan Chennamaneni, Director of the Institute for Sales Excellence at UWW, with Dr. Jimmy Peltier, Sales Team Coordinator, serving in an assistant coaching role.

With our first-place individual finish at the Great Northwoods Sales Warm-Up in October, the UWW Warhawks have now captured first place in both of the nation’s top collegiate sales competitions — a perfect 2 for 2!

Dr. Chennamaneni emphasized the impact of Dr. Peltier’s decades of coaching experience: “Jimmy knows precisely what it takes to compete at the highest level. His instincts for developing talent and his ability to fine-tune performance gave our team a meaningful advantage. We are deeply grateful for the expertise he brings to our program.” Chennamaneni also recognized the contributions of Dan Herlache, who retired last semester but played a foundational role in the development of UW-Whitewater’s sales program: “Dan built a tradition of success at ICSC, and I had the privilege of learning from him during our past travels to the competition. Continuing that legacy this year feels incredibly rewarding.”

As Director of the Institute for Sales Excellence, Dr. Chennamaneni noted his pride in the students’ performance: “Their professionalism, preparation, and grit continue to elevate UW-Whitewater’s national reputation in sales education. This team has represented the Warhawk community with distinction.” The coaching team expressed deep appreciation for Dean Paul Ambrose, whose strong support for experiential learning continues to elevate the College of Business and Economics and its students on a national and global scale.

More about the Institute for Sales Excellence at UWW The Institute for Sales Excellence, housed within the College of Business and Economics, continues to build UW-Whitewater’s reputation for developing top sales talent through rigorous training, mentorship, and competitive experiences.

The Institute for Sales Excellence supports both the American Marketing Association (AMA) and Pi Sigma Epsilon (PSE) sales teams in attending regional and national competitions sponsored by their organizations. Previous competitions have been held in Las Vegas, New Orleans, Chicago, Eau Claire, Michigan, Milwaukee, and other locations.

Editor’s note: This press release was provided by the UW-Whitewater College of Business and Economics.

The annual lot owners and directors meetings of the Cemetery Association of Whitewater will be held Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at Blackhawk Manor, 1155 Blackhawk Dr., Whitewater.

Editor’s note: This announcement was provided by Lee Hollingshead.

Sex Offender Community Notification

January 16, 2026 – The following is a press release authorized by a core team made up of representatives from local law enforcement, the District Attorney’s Office, and the Department of Corrections. The core team evaluates and makes decisions on the level of notification to the community for the pending release of sex offenders under Wisconsin Statute 301.46 (Act 440).

The Whitewater Police Department is releasing the following information pursuant to Wisconsin Statute 301.46 (Act 440), which authorizes law enforcement agencies to inform the public of a sex offender’s release when that information will enhance public safety and awareness. Community notification furthers the interest of public safety and it is our belief that a better-informed public is a safer public. This notification is not intended to increase fear in the community, but rather to increase awareness. This offender is not wanted by the police at this time and has served the sentence imposed on him by the court.

Aaron K. Huyser, 41, was previously convicted of 948.02(2) 2nd DEGREE SEXUAL ASSAULT OF A CHILD (3 COUNTS).
Huyser is scheduled to be released from prison on January 20, 2026, and will be residing at 338 E. Harriet St. in Whitewater. As part of Huyser’s supervision with the Department of Corrections; he will be subject to 24-hour electronic monitoring. Additionally, Huyser’s rules of supervision include not to have unsupervised contact with minors and not to consume any illegal drugs.

Citizen abuse of this information to threaten, intimidate, or harass registered sex offenders will not be tolerated. Further, such abuse could subject those who commit such acts to criminal penalties, and potentially end law enforcement’s ability to do
community notification.

If you have information regarding current criminal activity of this individual, or any other offender, please contact the Whitewater Police Department at 262-473-0555. Additional information is available at the Wisconsin Department of Corrections Sex Offender Registry Web site located at http://offender.doc.state.wi.us/public/.

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Notificación a la comunidad sobre ofensores sexuales

16 de enero del 2026 – El siguiente es un comunicado de prensa autorizado por el equipo central compuesto por representantes de las fuerzas del orden locales, la Fiscalía del Distrito y el Departamento de Correcciones. El equipo central evalúa y toma decisiones sobre el nivel de notificación de la comunidad sobre la liberación pendiente de ofensores sexuales en virtud del Estatuto de Wisconsin 301.46 (Ley 440).

El Departamento de la Policía de Whitewater comparte la siguiente información de conformidad con el Estatuto de Wisconsin 301.46 (Ley 440), que autoriza a las fuerzas del orden a informar al público sobre la puesta en libertad de un ofensor sexual mientras que dicha información contribuya a mejorar la seguridad y la concienciación públicas. La notificación a la comunidad promueve el interés de la seguridad pública y creemos que un público mejor informado es un público más seguro. Esta notificación no tiene por objeto aumentar el miedo en la comunidad, sino aumentar la concienciación. Este ofensor no es buscado por la policía en este momento y ha cumplido la sentencia que le impuso el tribunal.

Aaron K. Huyser, de 41 años, fue condenado anteriormente por 948.02(2) AGRESIÓN SEXUAL DE SEGUNDO GRADO A UN MENOR (3 CARGOS). Huyser tiene previsto salir de prisión el 20 de enero de 2026 y residirá en el número 338 de E. Harriet St., en Whitewater. Como parte de la supervisión de Huyser por parte del Departamento de Correcciones, estará sujeto a vigilancia electrónica las 24 horas del día. Además, las normas de supervisión de Huyser incluyen no tener contacto sin supervisión con menores y no consumir drogas ilegales.

No se tolerará el uso indebido de esta información por parte de los ciudadanos para amenazar, intimidar o acosar a los ofensores sexuales registrados. Además, el uso indebido de esta información podría dar lugar a sanciones penales para quienes cometan tales actos y, potencialmente, poner fin a la capacidad de las fuerzas del orden para realizar notificaciones a la comunidad.

Si tiene información sobre la actividad delictiva actual de esta persona, o de cualquier otro delincuente, póngase en contacto con el Departamento de Policía de Whitewater llamando al 262-473-0555. Hay más información disponible en el sitio web del Registro de Ofensores Sexuales del Departamento Correccional de Wisconsin, ubicado en http://offender.doc.state.wi.us/public/.

It’s time once again for #FlashbackFriday with the Whitewater Historical Society.

This week we continue to look at very old industries in Whitewater. This image is from around 1880 and is a view of the Winchester and Partridge Manufacturing Company that was located along Whitewater Street just north of the depot.

The Winchester and Partridge Manufacturing Company was a notable wagon manufacturer at the time this photo was taken. The company began in the 1850s as a foundry and plow manufacturer. Around 1865, the company began to manufacturer wagons, a successful venture that, in the 1870s, was making as many as 5,000 wagons a year. But, by 1890, wagon production was moving to larger factories in Wisconsin and the deaths of both Winchester and Partridge in 1892 resulted in the closure of the factory.

Join us next week for more from the Whitewater Historical Society.

(1664 ST, edited, Whitewater Historical Society)

DUBUQUE, Iowa – The following Loras College students were recognized for academic achievement during the recent semester by Dr. Sarah Nytroe, Loras College Provost. To be eligible, a student must earn a minimum grade-point average of 3.50 for the term and be a full-time student taking at least 12 graded credits (pass/fail courses are excluded). The Dean’s List is compiled at the completion of each semester.

Whitewater, WI

 Calli A. Grosinske
 Mayte G. Navejas

I, Aubrey Thompson, am running for the City of Whitewater Common Council At Large seat. 

I would first like to extend a GIANT “Thank You” to the 400-ish residents who have taken time to speak with me, while I was meeting folks around town with my Nomination pages. I appreciate everyone’s time, especially when you open the door on chilly Wisconsin winter days!

Secondly, I will be available for Q&As at:

Bingg’s – January 16, 2026 from 530pm to 730pm (N416 Twinkling Star Rd, Whitewater, WI 53190). 

As well as, Jessica’s – January 19, 2026 from noon to 2pm (140 W. Main St, Whitewater, WI 53190). 

Bring your ideas on what you like about Whitewater and what you want to improve. Looking forward to meeting you; hope you can stay awhile and support local business. 

Please note, I will be at other gatherings around town. If you would like to invite me to speak with a group of Neighbors & Locals, please contact me. (aubrey.whitewater@protonmail.com)

Happy New Years, Whitewater!

Editor’s note: This announcement was provided by Aubrey Thompson. The Whitewater Banner welcomes submissions from area candidates. Our usual policy is to allow one announcement per candidate prior to the primary election and one additional submission before the general election. Since there is no primary this year up to two items may be submitted at any time.

The Whitewater Community Foundation (WCF) has presented the fall 2025 grants, which include $2,065 for the Whitewater Art Alliance, $500 for the Whitewater Public Library, and $1,000 for the Whitewater Urban Forestry Commission.

“We were thrilled to distribute funds to several organizations doing work to benefit the Whitewater community.  Making a difference in the lives of our residents is our key purpose,” said Virginia Coburn, Chair of the Community Action Grant committee for the Whitewater Community Foundation.

Following is more information about each grant:

Whitewater Arts Alliance was granted $2,065 to purchase additional Pro Art Panels to increase the number of display exhibits and to replace an outdated laptop that will be used to produce marketing materials, distribute communications, store electronic files, and serve as the primary organizational and record keeping tool for the WAA. The goal is to expand its programming and improve its efficiency.  

Whitewater Public Library was granted $500 to create two Sensory Go-Bags, one to be used onsite and the other available for check out. The bags would contain the following items for children to use: noise-canceling headphones, weighted lap pads, sunglasses, fidgets, weighted calming books.  Sensory-inclusive spaces and programs benefit all children by providing outlets for social-emotional wellbeing and regulation. The library can provide essential resources to children in the Whitewater community who would benefit from sensory-inclusive spaces and programs, including children with autism or sensory-processing disorder.

Whitewater Urban Forestry Commission was granted $1,000 to create additional educational signage in the Arboretum at Starin Park to include informational, instructive signage and additional tree identification tags.

Twice a year, the WCF offers Community Action Grants for projects that the community and board of directors believe are worthwhile and beneficial to various segments of the population.  Grant proposals are due on April 30th and October 31st of each year.

“The Foundation remains committed to funding projects that foster community engagement.  We encourage more local organizations to apply for our upcoming grants and continue making a positive impact,” said Coburn.

Organizations interested in pursuing a Whitewater Community Foundation Action Grant should contact info@whitewatercommunityfoundation.org.  Details about the Community Action Grants can be found at https://whitewatercommunityfoundation.org/community-action-grants/

The next grant requests are due April 30, 2026.

The Foundation continues to provide and host scholarships for Whitewater High School students and also offers fiscal sponsorship to organizations that are seeking 501(c) (3) status or require temporary pass-through funds for worthy community projects.

More information about the Whitewater Community Foundation can be found at whitewatercommunityfoundation.org and on Facebook. 

The Whitewater Community Foundation’s mission is to “enhance quality of life in the Whitewater area via educational, cultural, charitable or benevolent expenditures.”

Editor’s Note: The above was submitted by the Whitewater Community Foundation.

Jefferson County Welcomes Brandie Hanson as County Veterans Service Officer

Jefferson County is pleased to announce that Brandie Hanson has been confirmed as the County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) following approval by the Jefferson County Board at its January 13 meeting. This position was formerly held by Yvonne Duesterhoeft, who is retiring as CVSO following 19 years of service.

As County Veterans Service Officer, Hanson will serve as the primary advocate for Jefferson County veterans and their families, assisting them in accessing federal, state, and local benefits related to disability compensation, healthcare, education, pensions, survivor benefits, and other earned services.

Hanson brings 15 years of professional experience in veteran advocacy, case management, and public service to the role. Most recently, she was a Veterans Ombudsman Services Specialist with the Wisconsin Board on Aging and Long-Term Care, where she served on behalf of more than 500 residents at Wisconsin Veterans Homes. In that position, Hanson investigated resident rights concerns, worked with administrators and care teams to resolve complex issues, and led outreach and education efforts to strengthen partnerships with veterans, families, and local agencies. In addition to her civilian experience, Hanson is a U.S. Army National Guard veteran, having served from 2000 to 2012. Her service included two combat deployments to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation New Dawn. Her military awards include the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, and Army Good Conduct Medal.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to support Jefferson County veterans and their families,” said Hanson. “My goal is to build strong relationships, improve access to earned benefits, and ensure veterans feel respected and supported. This office exists to serve, and I look forward to continuing that mission.”

“What I have enjoyed more than anything in this work is having the tools and network to weave together solutions that give veterans the support to move forward through difficult times and thrive,” said retiring CVSO Yvonne Duesterhoeft. “I’m certain that Brandie comes to this role with more knowledge and experience than I had 19 years ago when I started. She has the heart, passion, and skills to advance our mission in important ways.”

Brandon White, Jefferson County Board Supervisor and member of the Veterans Service Commission, observed that “Brandie brings a combination of military experience and deep professional expertise in veteran advocacy. As Veterans Ombudsman, she demonstrated a strong commitment to ensuring veterans receive the care and benefits they’ve earned.”

“The CVSO is often the first point of contact for veterans navigating complex systems,” said Jefferson County Administrator Michael Luckey. “Brandie’s experience positions her exceptionally well to serve Jefferson County veterans with compassion, professionalism, and accountability.”

County officials encourage veterans, service members, and their families to contact the local CVSO at (920) 674-7240 or jeffersoncountyvets.org to learn more about available benefits and services.