Karen Kohler, Executive Director of the CVTC Foundation, Inc., has helped increase assets by 22 percent since her transition into the role in 2020.

Fifty years ago, a small group of visionaries saw the potential of what Chippewa Valley Technical College could become and took action to help it grow. In 1975, they established the Area Vocational, Technical and Adult Education District One Foundation, Inc., planting the seeds of what we now know as CVTC Foundation, Inc.

While the name officially changed in 1987, the mission has remained steadfast for half a century: to strengthen the College and support its students through meaningful partnerships and strategic investments. That mission has shaped countless lives, opened doors to opportunity, and built a stronger region.

Just a year after the name change, under the leadership of Wayne Atkins, the Foundation celebrated an early milestone, surpassing $1 million in cumulative donations and establishing 50 endowed scholarships by 1988. From there, the momentum grew.

Today, the Foundation continues to thrive under the direction of Executive Director Karen Kohler, whose leadership over the past five and a half years has helped increase assets by 22 percent. The impact is felt across every bit of CVTC.

In the past year alone, the Foundation raised nearly $120,000 for the Student Emergency Fund, helping students overcome unexpected financial barriers that could otherwise derail their education. Since January, 33 students in high-wage, high-demand programs have received $44,000 in microgrants to support their progress toward graduation. This past year, the Foundation awarded more than 400 scholarships, totaling nearly $400,000 in support for students pursuing their academic dreams.

From its first scholarship awarded in 1977 to today, the Foundation has given back an incredible $28 million to CVTC — empowering students, fueling innovation, and ensuring that education remains accessible to all.

As the CVTC Foundation celebrates its 50th anniversary, we honor not just a milestone but a movement built on generosity, vision, and community. Here’s to the next 50 years of transforming lives and shaping the future, together.