Friday, October 24, 2025
CVTC Foundation celebrates 50 years as leader retires
Karen Kohler, Executive Director of the CVTC Foundation and Vice President of Institutional Advancement, celebrates the Foundation’s milestone as she retires from the College after more than 30 years in different roles.
As Chippewa Valley Technical College celebrates the 50th anniversary of the CVTC Foundation, Inc., the organization that has empowered student success through scholarships, emergency grants, and partnerships, its longtime leader is preparing to close a meaningful chapter in the College’s history.
Karen Kohler, Executive Director of the CVTC Foundation and Vice President of Institutional Advancement, will retire at the end of October after more than three decades of service to the College.
“As I reflect on more than 30 years at CVTC and prepare for my retirement, I’m reminded of how generosity and purpose intertwine to create lasting impact,” she said.
Kohler joined CVTC in 1993 and served in various roles throughout the institution, from instruction and workforce training to student services and administration. That breadth of experience, she said, helped shape her deep appreciation for CVTC’s mission and the people behind it.
“It’s difficult to put into words what this journey has meant to me,” she said. “I’ve had the privilege of seeing our College from many angles. In every space, I found colleagues who became collaborators, mentors, and friends.”
A Legacy of Growth and Giving
Established in 1975, the CVTC Foundation began as a small effort to help students access technical education through philanthropy. The Foundation has grown significantly since then and now awards more than $1.5 million in scholarships and student support each year while also helping fund innovative learning spaces, emergency grants, and new academic opportunities.
CVTC President Sunem Beaton-Garcia is grateful for the Foundation and the donors who continue to support students and their dreams.
“Half a century ago, our Foundation began with a simple idea: to help students achieve their dreams. Today, thanks to the remarkable leadership of Karen (Kohler), the leaders who came before her, and the unwavering commitment of countless donors, that vision has blossomed into a legacy of growth, generosity, and transformative impact,” Beaton-Garcia said.
Kohler agrees that the Foundation’s growth has been fueled by a culture of collaboration and a shared commitment to students.
“Together, we’ve built a remarkable culture where people care deeply about students, about each other, and about the future of our communities,” she said.
She emphasized that the Foundation’s impact is only possible because of CVTC’s generous supporters.
“What makes CVTC truly special is our ability to evolve with the needs of students and employers alike,” she said. “That agility is sustained by our talented employees and by the incredible network of alumni, donors, and partners who believe in our mission.”
Looking to the Future
As CVTC celebrates the Foundation’s 50-year milestone, Kohler says the future holds endless possibilities. A new Foundation team is now in place, poised to carry forward her legacy with renewed energy and vision.
Adam Wehling, former Dean of Agriculture, Energy, Construction, & Transportation, has transitioned into the role of Executive Director of Foundation and Associate Vice President of Development.
“This spirit of giving is thriving,” Kohler said. “Donor engagement continues to grow, and our new foundation team is bringing fresh energy and vision to this important work. Across the College, employees champion these efforts daily, sharing student stories, building relationships, and inspiring generosity.”
Kohler says she leaves knowing the Foundation is stronger and will continue to set CVTC and its students up for success.
“As I step into retirement, my heart is full of gratitude and optimism,” she said. “The future of philanthropy at CVTC is bright because together, we are building pathways of opportunity that will continue to change lives for generations to come.”
