Member Spotlight
We’re excited to spotlight Simmi Urbanek, Director of Marketing and Business Development at Greenfire Management Services, and a dedicated Professional Dimensions member for over eight years. Over the years, Simmi has embraced many opportunities within the PD community, serving as a committee member, committee chair, board member, charitable fund volunteer and contributor, and a regular attendee who continually shows up to support and strengthen the organization.
When reflecting on how her PD journey began, Simmi recalls being grateful that someone thought of her and extended an invitation to join. And here at Professional Dimensions, we’re equally grateful that she answered the call.
For Simmi, one of the most meaningful parts of her PD experience has been her involvement with the Professional Dimensions Charitable Fund (PDCF). What started as volunteering for the annual event - now known as the Imprint Awards - evolved into leadership roles as Vice Chair and eventually Chair of the event.
“Being a part of the Charitable Fund Board is the most rewarding part of PD for me,” she shared. “I appreciate the very direct giving with a purpose and the spotlight we shine on artists and women making an impact.”
Her commitment to service and leadership extends well beyond PD. Simmi has been involved with Islands of Brilliance for the past 13 years, beginning as a creative mentor and growing into a board leadership role. Today, she leads the organization’s fundraising committee, working alongside a team of six dedicated volunteers.
Islands of Brilliance empowers children and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through creative learning experiences and opportunities to thrive. Through her work with the organization, Simmi has expanded her understanding of advocacy, policy, and the challenges families face every day.
“This is more than asking for funding,” she explains. “It’s learning about advocacy, policy, and conditions that affect these kids and their families every day.”
She credits much of her growth in nonprofit leadership to lessons learned through Professional Dimensions and the Charitable Fund. The fundraising, strategic planning, collaboration, and leadership skills she developed through PD have directly influenced her success with Islands of Brilliance.
One of Simmi’s core beliefs is that the value of Professional Dimensions extends far beyond its membership.
“It’s important that the information shared within PD goes out into the community and benefits the community,” she says. “We need to break the thought that PD is a secret society or an exclusive community. We’re here to help the entire community.”
That spirit of connection and shared growth is central to how Simmi views leadership. She often reflects on a simple but powerful analogy:
“There is a ladder, and it takes one person to climb it, but many people to hold it in place and stabilize it. Without those people, I would not know how to challenge myself, accept feedback, and grow.”
Today, Simmi balances a fulfilling professional career, volunteer leadership, and life as a wife and mother of two teenage boys. She is passionate about helping organizations succeed and feels fortunate that her work allows her to support causes that align with her values and make a meaningful difference in the community.
When asked what Professional Dimensions means to her, Simmi’s answer captures the essence of the organization:
“Being a PD member is being part of an inclusive group of leaders that focuses on philanthropy, networking, leadership, and diversity. There is opportunity when you want to make it. There are connections where you want to make them. There are memories always and everywhere.”
Thank you, Simmi, for your leadership, generosity, and unwavering commitment to strengthening both the PD community and the greater Milwaukee community. We are proud to celebrate all that you contribute and the impact you continue to make.
CONTACT SIMMI 414.290.9445 simmi.urbanek@greenfire.com LinkedIn
We’re thrilled to feature Betsy Johnson, a standout leader and connector in the world of live events and video production. As Vice President of New Business at Tri-Marq, LLC, she leads sales and account management to help clients create immersive experiences that spark real human connection. Whether it's a major business event or a compelling video campaign, her work is rooted in bringing people together in meaningful, unforgettable ways.
Her career has been shaped by a powerful leadership philosophy: lead with kindness. Early in her journey, she experienced environments where fear and ego took the lead — and she vowed to be different. Today, she builds teams grounded in empathy, resilience, and trust. She believes that kindness isn't weakness — it's a strategic strength. It's about listening deeply, holding space for others, and cultivating teams where people feel safe, valued, and ready to thrive.
Outside of work, she’s currently embracing a new creative adventure — learning how to paint. This practice has stretched her in unexpected ways, teaching her the beauty of surrender, surprise, and letting go of perfection.
When asked how Professional Dimensions has shaped her journey, she shared:
“I’ve gained so much knowledge and perspective from this group. The members of PD are generous, brilliant, and incredibly welcoming. They push me to grow — not just as a professional, but as a human being.”
Her advice to other women navigating leadership?
“Say yes, then figure it out. You grow into the role. You’re more capable than you think — even on the days you doubt it.”
We’re proud to have this empathetic, powerhouse leader in our community. Thank you Betsy for all you bring to PD!
Clintel Hasan is co-founder of LiberatED Consulting, an anti-racist education consulting service dedicated to building the critical consciousness of educators and school leaders on topics of race, class, power and privilege. Previously, she was the Strategic Initiatives Manager at Milwaukee Succeeds, working for educational equity in Milwaukee and leading their High School Success initiative, Youth Forward MKE and co-leading Milwaukee’s K12 Covid-19 Civic Response Team. In her early career, Clintel worked as the Director of Leadership Development at Teach For America-Milwaukee. She provided teacher support aligned with culturally relevant pedagogy across the Milwaukee region, harnessed the power of TFA alumni in Wisconsin to advance educational equity, and led regional initiatives on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. A Milwaukee native and proud homeowner and resident of the St. Joseph’s neighborhood, her passion for social justice developed early on while studying Sociology and Gender & Women Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and later earning her Master’s degree in Educational Policy and Leadership from Marquette University.
Congratulations, Clintel!
Tracie recently transitioned into the Global DEI Operations and ERG program manager role at Rockwell Automation headquartered in Milwaukee, WI. In this role she will oversee the 66 Global ERG chapters in the organization, partner with them in their development, growth and reach within Rockwell Globally to further the DEI interests and work toward a more inclusive culture. Operational aspects of DEI are also included in her roles and partnering with internal stakeholders on driving the entire DEI strategy forward.
Tracie is a Milwaukee native and Marquette University graduate. She recently transitioned to the DEI Operations and ERG Global Program Manager for Rockwell Automation and formerly served as the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Manager- North America for Manpower Group. Tracie has served on a plethora of boards and councils to advance interests for underserved communities, justice impacted individuals and BIPOC individuals.
Tracie currently serves as Board President for The Community, Board Development Chair for ArtWorks Milwaukee, Counsel Member for Marquette University’s - Counsel for Native American Affairs, Marquette University’s -Auntie’s Circle, National Board Member at Marquette University, REID Leadership Committee, Diversity Leadership Society Chairperson with United Way and President for Marquette University High Schools Mother’s Guild. She is passionate about being involved in her community as well as in the lives of her two children.
She is a proud member of the Oneida Tribe of Indians of Wisconsin.
Tracie’s favorite roles are that of wife, mother, dog mom, gecko mom and fan of all things Marquette athletics, Bucks, Brewers and Packers!
Our Roots Say We’re Connected - Auntie’s Circle Podcast – 2022
Most Influential Native Leaders in Wisconsin 2023 – Madison 365
Emerging Women Leader Member with TEMPO – January 2023
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Shanita received a bachelor’s degree in communications and journalism from Mount Mary University and is currently working on her master’s in business administration.
Fun facts: She is an author and life coach who loves to travel.
Congratulations on the new role, Shanita!
Her career highlights include renewing the Brew City Match Collaboration under a shared mission to support small business growth in target neighborhoods, reactivating commercial corridor growth along National Avenue in Silver City, co-developing an award-winning pilot program supporting BIPOC restaurant owners while addressing food security and accessibility among seniors, and supporting the creation of more than 150 jobs and more than $2.6 million in small business and commercial real estate investments.
Her career path in economic development started in Peace Corps El Salvador, where she focused on fueling local entrepreneurship and wealth-building. She then went on to receive her master’s degree in City and Regional Planning from Cornell University where she also completed a fellowship with the Ministry of Tourism in Belize.
Celia and her team have a vision that “Milwaukee County will become the most diverse, inclusive, and economically vibrant county in Wisconsin through excellence in real estate development, leasing, and sales and building partnerships that drive economic opportunities.”
In her personal time, Celia enjoys outdoor adventures with her family and friends, winning cribbage games, and rescuing cats.
Celia Benton
Director of Economic Development
Milwaukee County
To serve in this capacity during this season of my career is a tremendous blessing. The YMCA is in 10,000 communities and we strive to transform lives through our programs worldwide. In this role, I will have the opportunity to serve in partnership with local chief volunteer officers and board members as they navigate through Executive transition options. I will assist them in their efforts to identify their next Chief Executive Officer. I will also be able to use my networks, relationships, and influence to build pipelines through intentional succession planning to prepare leaders for future opportunities.Advocating for underrepresented communities and ensuring that all dimensions of diversity have access to the table is a priority for me.PD has prepared for for such a time as this and I am incredibly thankful to serve in this capacity.
Shaneé Jenkins Sr. Director of Executive Leadership/CEO, YMCA PD President 2023-2024
MASON STREET MASSAGE INVITES COMMUNITY TO CELEBRATE GRAND RE-OPENING ON JULY 29, 2023 FROM 12PM-2PM.
MILWAUKEE, WI July 20, 2023/Mason Street Lymphatic & Therapeutic Massage is pleased to announce the Grand Re-opening of its downtown Milwaukee location on Saturday, July 29, 2023 from 12pm-2pm.
Formerly Revive Bodyworks MKE, the new location is 759 N Milwaukee Street Suite 410 and provides Lymphatic and Therapeutic massage to ease chronic pain and inflammation. They provide Manual Lymphatic Drainage or Lymphatic Massage treatments to support immune function, post surgical healing, brain and gut health and prenatal/ postpartum care.
More details can be found here: www.MasonStreetMassage.com
“One of our founding principles at Mason Street Lymphatic & Therapeutic Massage is that you deserve to live the life you desire without pain and inflammation. As more and more people turn to a holistic approach that supports longevity in physical, mental, and spiritual health, we have created a safe space where we can enjoy and support each other in our own healing journeys.
Founded in January 2021, by Licensed Massage Therapist and certified Lymphatic Drainage Expert, May Schmitz, she is committed to help clients find relief from pain and inflammation through natural treatment programs.
May says, “You deserve good health and to feel normal and comfortable in your own body. I help people on their journeys to improve their health by resetting a key necessary function. Your long term health focuses on cleaning, detoxing and resetting your body’s natural filtering system, the Lymphatic system. I offer a range of services to help you achieve your wellness goals, whether you're seeking speedy healing, relief from swelling and pain post-surgery, or a natural approach to combat fatigue, brain fog, or hormonal elimination. I am committed to making your journey a little easier.”
The free event is open to new and returning clients. It will be hosted at Mason Street Massage on 759 N Milwaukee Street Suite 410 and catered by the Mecca Sports Bar & Grill. Be prepared for a short and sweet afternoon of carnival games to win tickets and increase your odds of winning big prizes from local participating businesses including Float Milwaukee, Square One Soapworks, Glamour Lash, Mindscapes Hypnotherapy, Tru Cannabliss, and Carrie Murphy Acupuncture.
Additionally, now through Saturday July 29, 2023, every $100 you spend with Mason Street Massage, you'll receive 10 bonus tickets to enter into the raffle.
The first 50 attendees will receive Swag bags. There will be door prizes, carnival games for special discounts, services, and products. Enjoy food & refreshments, music, and fun.
Raffle Proceeds will be donated to Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
Mason Street Massage is Milwaukee's premier massage practice for safe and effective Lymphatic Drainage massage.
For more details, please go to MasonStreetMassage.com or click here to RSVP.
May Schmitz, LMT, MLD-C
Pain & Inflammation Specialist
414-376-7610
759 N Milwaukee St #410
Milwaukee WI 53202
Dear PD Members and Charitable Fund Donors,
I am so proud to share that last week, Deitra McFadden - Treasurer of the Charitable Fund Board, Lauren Feaster - our CEO and I accompanied our Signature Project Champions - Davina Elim and Courtney Kelly to deliver that final installment to our current Signature Project, Nia Imani Family Inc..
This fulfills our commitment of $100,000 over our two year partnership to support their important work of fostering independent living for mothers and children recovering from homelessness, violence and life traumatic experiences. Your support has and is making a difference for women and girls in our community.
Stay tuned for more about our new Signature Project Partner - Sherman Phoenix Foundation's Women and Mom's Entrepreneurship Program. We are so excited about the many opportunities for engagement!
Thank you,
Erica Gumieny
Chair, Professional Dimension's Charitable Fund Board
She believes in maintaining a positive mindset, providing excellent communication, and always striving for significant outcomes. When you work with her, you can expect collaboration with transparency and consistency.
Prior to launching her own business, Charlotte worked in veterinary medicine for fourteen years of her career, helping pets and their people have access to the most advanced care in their time of need. For the majority of her veterinary career, she played a key role in growing a network of hospitals from its infancy through acquisition, with opportunities to lead efforts in strategic planning, fiscal management, facilities and IT, leadership and development, event planning, relationship building, change management, marketing strategy, and diversity, equity, and inclusion strategy. She also worked in "human" healthcare organizations centered on understanding and serving vulnerable groups through organizations such as Planned Parenthood, Centro Médico Susan Hou/Daniels Hamant Foundation - an international medical clinic and foundation serving a rural community in lowland Bolivia, and Neighborhood Diabetes - a diabetes supply company with a focus on patient education and support.
With roots in anthropology, experiences serving vulnerable populations, and a desire to improve her workplace, Charlotte is deeply committed to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) work. She champions this work through her consulting business and through her volunteer roles as well. She has been a member of PD since 2018, serving on the Racial Equity Committee and on the Board. She serves as the Treasurer and Executive Board Member of Bay Bridge Wisconsin, a community organization in Whitefish Bay working to raise awareness about cultural and racial bias and to influence policy within the village, school district, and law enforcement structures. She is also a proud Girl Scout troop leader for her daughter's troop where she has the wonderful opportunity to uplift the next generation of women leaders!
Charlotte graduated from Northwestern University with a Bachelor's in Medical Anthropology, focusing her studies on public health, women’s health, and gender studies. She later earned a Master’s degree from UW-Milwaukee in Business Administration with a concentration in healthcare management.
Outside of her professional interests, Charlotte enjoys yoga, reading, and spending time with her husband, two daughters, and their lab/hound mix, Dolly Parton!
(414) 374-3570 info@professionaldimensions.org 759 North Milwaukee Street, Suite 404 Milwaukee, WI 53202
www.professionaldimensions.org
