Congratulations to our 2025 Winners! Read the stories below. 

Thank you to our Chamber businesses below for their sponsorship of this event!

Ardex All American Mineral, Bonduel State Bank, Charter Aarrowcast, Community Education Initiative, CoVantage Credit Union, Evermore Realty, Genex, Harter's Fox Valley Disposal, Heins Applicance, Ho-Chunk Gaming Wittenberg, IROW, Kersten Accounting & Tax, Marion Body Works, Menominee Casino Resort, North Star Mohican Casino Resort, Nueske’s Applewood Smoked Meats, Performance Food Service, Premier Community Bank, Premier Investment Services, Raddant Electric Service, Strive Behavioral Solutions, ThedaCare, Twig’s Beverages, Shawano Family Dentistry, Shawano Pathways, Thiel & Associates Insurance Agency, Wallrich Agency, Walmart,  Wolf River Development Company, 



With the slogan “Your personalized skin care destination in the heart of downtown,” Fresh Face Company in Shawano has been selected as the 2025 Small Business of the Year.
 
Fresh Face Co. takes a holistic approach to beauty — combining relaxing spa treatments with advanced medical aesthetics in one seamless experience. From rejuvenating facials to expert skin care advice and premium at-home products, they offer personalized care for every client.
 
The business is led by Megan Brady. Fresh Face Co. began in 2020 as a single treatment room with a big vision: to help people feel cared for, seen, and confident in their skin. As demand grew, so did the dream — not just for more services, but for more community.
 
“Each suite specializes in unique treatments, yet all our aestheticians are trained in our signature services for a cohesive, tailored experience,” Brady said.
 
In late 2025, Fresh Face Co. expanded into a collaborative suite-style wellness space at 111 N. Main Street, bringing multiple practitioners under one roof while keeping the original Fresh Face experience alive within it.
 
“Inside our new location, licensed beauty and wellness professionals operate from individual suites, offering a diverse range of services — from advanced skincare and head spa treatments, to medical aesthetics, holistic modalities, and more,” Brady said.
 
Each practitioner runs their own business while still benefiting from a shared environment that provides community, support, and thoughtfully designed amenities.
 
“It’s ‘community over competition’ in action,” emphasized Brady, “a space where clients enjoy more options in one place, and providers have room to grow and shine.”
 
Under one roof, you’ll find advanced skincare services, head spa services, medical aesthetics performed by a nurse, oncology-friendly facials, wellness guests, special events like bachelorette parties & private parties, a retail plus wellness boutique, with more being added throughout the year.
 
Fresh Face Co. remains the anchor tenant, offering advanced skincare, transformative head spa treatments, and holistic services while welcoming others to collaborate alongside them. The concept has become so popular that Brady mentioned her concerns about already outgrowing their new location!
 
Brady believes in collaboration for her whole team to achieve the best results.
 
“When we all work together, that is the key to success,” she said. “We make skin care simple, personal, and effective.”
 
For more information or to book an appointment, visit freshfacecompany.com

- - - -

Stubborn Brothers Brewery has been named the 2025 Business of the Year by the Shawano Country Chamber of Commerce.

The brewery, located at 220 S. Main St. in Shawano, was started by brothers Aaron and Erik Gilling with the help of their families. Stubborn Brothers Brewery opened in June 2020 after almost four years of construction and remodeling.
 
The main portion of the brewery is housed in a former movie and playhouse constructed in the 1910s, complete with a stage and the former orchestra pit intact. The Crescent Ballroom is located on the top floor - beautifully restored to reflect its original history as a 1900’s dance hall. The ballroom has a maximum capacity of 200 guests and has full elevator access.
 
The brewery is a locally focused and family-oriented operation that offers a unique experience with its historic atmosphere and commitment to sustainability. Since opening, they’ve brewed hundreds of beers across various styles - increasing production from 200-300 barrels in the first year to over 2,000 barrels in 2025.
 
“Since starting in 2020, our beer production has increased nearly ten-fold,” Aaron said. “We have gone from selling only within our own brewpub to self-distributing; to now having three distributors and our product in hundreds of bars, restaurants & retailers in central and northern Wisconsin.”
 
The brewhouse has expanded to accommodate increased production along with adding packaging equipment. The brewhouse staff has gone from one full-time employee to six in the past 4 years.
 
“We have an incredibly strong and dedicated team to help work through growing pains,” said Aaron. “We strive to create an environment where employees feel valued within the organization - encouraging new ideas and suggestions and a fun work environment.”
 
Aaron said their challenge now is keeping up with production demand.
 
“We feel incredibly lucky that there is a need for our product in the market,” he said. “We’re aiming to expand our distribution territory in the coming years with plans for a larger brewhouse and more efficient production process.”
 
The brewery's dedication to supporting the community is evident in its operations. They’ve offered support to local organizations such as 100 Women Who Care, Boys & Girls Club, local 4-H Clubs, Shawano Optimist Club, youth sports, local public & parochial schools, Shawano Park & Recreation department events, as well as participation in all the Shawano Downtown events.
 
“We were so grateful to collaborate with the city of Shawano in planning the Naberhood leading up to its opening in 2023, and have since worked to create and sponsor the “Naberhood Block Party” programming the past three summers,” said Aaron.
 
The brewery's menu includes a full bar with craft cocktails, burgers, sandwiches, apps, soups, salads, desserts, and seafood on Fridays. Exceptional service and a welcoming environment make it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. They also offer tours every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. which include a sample pint of one of their brews.
 
For more information, you can explore Stubborn Brothers Brewery online at www.stubbornbros.com.

- - - - 

Shawano Family Dentistry has been named the 2025 Service Business of the Year by the Shawano Country Chamber of Commerce.
 
When the Stevens family first moved to Shawano in 2022, their goal was to be a part of the community. When Dr. Rebecca and her husband Andrew opened Shawano Family Dentistry, they committed to providing exceptional dentistry, with the highest level of integrity in a kind and caring environment. They’ve also become an incredible support system for many initiatives throughout Shawano County — whether through donations, sponsorships, or hands-on involvement in local events.
 
“Our purpose at Shawano Family Dentistry is to deliver the highest level of integrity and make sure that our patients leave happy with us,” said Dr. Rebecca Stevens. “Additionally, I also want to be able to help the youth in our community, the elderly population, and the veterans. These are things that I’m very passionate about.”
 
They’ve supported community favorites like Touch a Truck, served as a presenting sponsor for saYPro events, and contributed to countless other activities. Their generosity extends even further: donating gift bags for Veterans Day events, partnering with the Shawano-Menominee Counties Health Department to offer free dental screenings, providing school supplies to local teachers, and sponsoring groups such as the Shawano Ski Sharks and various local golf outings.
 
You'll often see Andrew Stevens out in the community, attending events like Coffee Connections and sharing helpful dental information. If Dr. Rebecca isn’t able to attend — which is rare — her team is always there representing, whether at Trunk-or-Treat or other local gatherings.
 
Shawano Family Dentistry continues to expand their array of client services — bringing in specialists from surrounding areas to offer care, all while upgrading their equipment to provide same-day solutions that many offices simply can't offer. They offer dental exams, cleanings, restorations, general and emergency dental care, as well as cosmetic dentistry, Invisalign clear orthodontic aligners, laser snore treatments and ital sleep appliances. There are 13 full-time employees.
 
“We believe in caring for each person with respect and compassion,” said Dr. Stevens. “That means learning what each patient does — and does not — want from dental care, listening to their concerns, and working with them to develop a treatment plan that addresses their specific needs and desires.”
Since the office’s inception four years ago, there has been steady growth - spurring Stevens to construct a new location at the intersection of Airport Road and Engel Drive. Stevens said they expect to break ground in the next month.
The planned improvements don’t just elevate their business — they also strengthen the community by keeping high-quality care close to home all while offering a personal touch.
 
 “I always tell my patients that if they were my family member, I would recommend this procedure, or that one, and then I explain why,” said Dr. Stevens. “I’ve been in healthcare settings and felt frustrated when a provider didn’t take time to walk me through their recommendations; I refuse to do that to those who are trusting me with their smile.”
For more information or an appointment, visit them at 115 Alpine Ct., on the web at shawanofamilydentistry.com or call 715-524-4935.

- - - -

For her lifelong commitment, her extraordinary volunteerism, and her unwavering belief in Shawano County, Wendy Crawford has been named the 2025 Distinguished Citizen of the Year by the Shawano Country Chamber of Commerce.
 
Crawford’s impact on Shawano County did not begin with a title, a board seat, or a major fundraising goal. It began the way so much meaningful community work does— quietly, humbly, and with a simple question: How can I help?
 
“In her early PTA days at Lincoln Elementary and Shawano Community Middle School, Wendy was the person figuring out where to rent a helium tank for an event for the littles,” said Robyn Shingler, who co-nominated Crawford for the honor along with Jeannie Otto and Marla Sparks. “It is especially fitting that Wendy be recognized during the Chamber’s 100-Year Celebration—because it may take another century to find a volunteer resume that matches hers.”
 
Crawford organized student-centered activities, coordinated concessions, facilitated fundraisers, and made sure teachers had what they needed to support their classrooms. She also volunteered as a Junior Achievement instructor, helping introduce young students to the fundamentals of community, work, and leadership. These early efforts were not about recognition — they were about showing up.
 
Over the years, Crawford’s volunteerism has grown alongside Shawano County itself. Her service reflects the very values championed by the Shawano County Chamber of Commerce: leadership development, collaboration, community investment, and the belief that progress happens when individuals take initiative.
 
Her involvement with organizations such as the Boys & Girls Club, Shawano County Chamber of Commerce, 100+ Women Who Care - Shawano County, and many others is marked by an infectious energy and unwavering commitment.
 
“Wendy serves as a vital connector within our community—often described as the ‘human zip tie’ who brings people, ideas, and resources together and makes things happen,” said Marla Sparks.
 
Crawford’s commitment to developing leaders is perhaps best reflected in her involvement with Leadership Shawano County from 2002-2020, including 15 years as Director of the program. In this role, Crawford designed curriculum, cultivated relationships with major employers, nonprofit organizations, and municipal leaders, and mentored hundreds of participants.
 
Through Leadership Shawano County, Crawford strengthened connections between the private sector, nonprofits, and local government—working with organizations such as Genex and Nueske’s to ensure leadership development reflected the needs and strengths of the local economy. The ripple effects of this work can be seen throughout Shawano County in the many graduates now Serving on boards, councils, committees, and in leadership roles across sectors.
 
Crawford’s ability to turn ideas into action is evident in numerous community-wide initiatives. When overcrowding at Lincoln Elementary School signaled the need for a new school building, Crawford helped raise awareness and build public support for the referendum that ultimately led to the construction of Hillcrest Primary School.
 
She was also instrumental in efforts to bring the Boys & Girls Club to Shawano — participating in needs assessments, touring existing clubs, serving on advisory boards, and helping guide the organization from concept to reality. Her fundraising leadership has helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for the Boys & Girls Club of Shawano. Crawford served on its founding and advisory boards and helped launch signature fundraisers such as Purses for a Purpose and Shawano Uncorked.
 
What began nearly a decade ago as an $8,000 fundraiser has grown into an annual event generating close to $45,000—demonstrating Crawford’s vision, persistence, and ability to inspire others to invest in meaningful causes.
 
Crawford also played a founding role in Sun Drop Dayz, serving on the planning committee well beyond its inception. What began as a community celebration evolved into a significant fundraising and visibility platform for local nonprofits, reinforcing Crawford’s belief that economic vitality and community well-being go hand in hand.
 
Health and wellness have remained central to Crawford’s service. As a leader of the Community Health Action Team (CHAT), she helped guide conversations around access, awareness, and community health priorities. Her involvement in rural health initiatives and saYPro further reflects her holistic approach to strengthening communities.
 
One of Crawford’s most recent and impactful contributions has been her long-term involvement with 100+ Women Who Care - Shawano County. Since its launch in 2019, Crawford has served on the steering committee, acted as master of ceremonies for quarterly meetings, and managed essential organizational logistics. Her enthusiasm, reliability, and extensive network have helped the organization surpass $300,000 in collective giving, benefiting dozens of local nonprofits.
 
“Her ability to engage others from all facets of the community makes it nearly impossible to say no to her invitations—and participation in any initiative led by Wendy is guaranteed to be meaningful, valuable, and genuinely enjoyable,” Shingler said.
 
Crawford’s service also includes leadership and participation in the Shawano County Community Foundation (Past Vice Chair), Lincoln Elementary PTA (Past President), parish council and religious education at St. Michael’s in Keshena, Rotary Club, 4-H leadership, volunteer awards programming, referendum planning efforts, and countless school- and church-based initiatives.
 
Whether coordinating vendors with a walkie-talkie, unloading her car full of tables and decorations, or working behind the scenes, Crawford has never been too important to do the work.
 
“What truly sets Wendy Crawford apart is her character,” said Jeannie Otto. “She possesses a rare combination of warmth, curiosity, problem-solving ability, and communication skills that transform volunteer efforts into meaningful impact.”
 
Sparks said Crawford is a mentor in the truest sense, generously sharing her knowledge and connections to strengthen others and the community as a whole.
 
“Wendy is a beacon of inspiration for both emerging leaders and seasoned volunteers. Her influence extends well beyond the borders of Shawano County, yet her heart remains firmly rooted here,” said Sparks.
 
Through her dedication, leadership, and tireless service, Crawford has earned not only this honor of 2025 Distinguished Citizen of the Year, but the deep respect and gratitude of those she serves.

- - - - 



Uriah Williams of Shawano has been named the 2025 saYPro (Shawano Area Young Professionals) Young Professional of the Year.
 
Williams has served as the executive director of the Shawano Area United Way since August 2024. As of this January, Uriah has moved to a full-time position - the first time the organization has had a full-time staff member.
 
“Serving in this position has definitely been the highlight of my career so far,” he said. “Every day is different and I am blessed to work with one of the best boards in the Shawano area and some of the most amazing nonprofit agencies anywhere!"
 
Williams is a veteran of the US Army, holds his Master of Divinity degree from the United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities, and is an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ. In his free time, he likes to hunt, garden, and hike with his family.
 
Upon being named to his position at United Way, Williams enrolled in Leadership Shawano County (LSC), graduating from the program in 2025. He also became active in saYPro.
 
“I recognize I am blessed that much of this involvement overlaps with my day job. If I worked any other career, I’m not sure I would have the capacity to be this involved,” he said. “I have also spent much of this past year growing myself by meeting more people throughout Shawano and Menominee Counties. This was one of the greatest gifts from LSC and saYPro for me.”
 
Most recently, Williams has been taking courses offered through the United Way Network to learn more about leveraging state and national-level benefits to serve Shawano and Menominee Counties.
 
By engaging with a more diverse group of professionals outside the nonprofit sphere, Williams explained, he has significantly improved his understanding of community operations and economic drivers, an insight he wouldn't have gained a year prior.
 
“By working to expand my Board of Directors from seven when I took the Executive Director position to 11, we now have more diverse voices and ideas which makes for a stronger organization,” he said. “Surrounding myself with people who have different ideas and experiences than me has been one of my top focuses this last quarter and will be something I continue to work on in 2026.”
 
Williams said being a part of saYPro has been a saving grace. As a transplant to Shawano in 2021, he said it was difficult to meet other people his own age.
 
“Attending various saYPro family and networking events has helped me feel more at home in this community and is something I look forward to attending as often as my schedule allows,” he said.
 
Through his involvement with the United Way, Williams also is involved with the ThedaCare Shawano CHAT Team, Shawano Community Education Advisory Board, Wolf River Region NAMI, Shawano Area Early Childhood Partnership (SAECP), and the Health Department’s Community Health Assessment Team.
 
Williams is actively involved in the community, currently serving on the Board of the Wisconsin Deer Hunter’s Association – Shawano Chapter. He previously held Board positions with SAM25 and the Shawano Area United Way, where he is now a staff member. This year, through Leadership Shawano County, he is spearheading two significant initiatives: developing a Youth Leadership Shawano County program and updating the 211 Wisconsin information for our region.
 
Williams and his wife, Emma, reside in Shawano with their two-year-old daughter, Hatley. They are increasingly embracing Shawano traditions together.
 
“There are many people who work so hard to put on quality events and opportunities in and around Shawano,” he said. “We try our best to show up and be a part of them as our schedules allow. Whether that’s our annual tradition of going to the first Farmer’s Market each year and purchasing fresh ingredients and then to the Stock Market for their pizza dough and sauce and making an amazing homemade pizza that night or going to the Holiday Stroll and Tree Lighting or saYPro’s bingo event, we try our best to be there to support.”

- - - - 

Thank You to Nathan Falk for writing these feature stories.