The Road She Traveled: Recent Episodes
Longfellow Middle School
When meandering down the road of life, we encounter special people that positively impact our lives. We have the opportunity to thank and appreciate many of them but often aren’t aware of the silent heroes that have contributed to our life as we know it.
The Road She Traveled is a project meant to honor and celebrate the women that have changed not only the physical substance of the road we travel, but also the landscape we enjoy. Without the cherished contributions these women have made, we would work, live, and play in a very different community than the one encountered today.
We invite you to travel virtually down the road these remarkable women have paved and witness this gift to our community, a place for current and future history enthusiasts to learn about the unique and giving women who have helped to build this great city of La Crosse, Wisconsin!
View the 2009, Commencement Ceremony for The Road She Traveled project.
Over the past several years, Longfellow Middle School students have been diligently working on a one-of-a-kind history project to honor women in the Coulee Region, titled The Road She Traveled. With the guidance of the La Crosse Area League of Women Voters, women that have made a significant impact on our community have been identified, and our students have conducted interviews, written biographies, and created docudramas to detail the success of these distinguished community members. This is an ongoing venture, and to date, we have 89 digitally captured oral history projects archived on our website and podcast.
You are cordially invited to
The Road She Traveled
2009 Commencement Ceremony.
Visit our website: http://wiki.lacrosseschools.org/groups/theroadshetraveled/
The Road She Traveled is created by Longfellow students, hosted by the
School District of La Crosse, and sponsored by the League of Women Voters.
Even with a diagnosis of cancer, Sister Thea Bowman didn’t allow her goals to be compromised. Thea persevered, and this devotion earned her the honor of Viterbo University’s Most Outstanding Person. Sister Thea was a sought after speaker making over 150 speeches a year promoting world peace and humanity and directing her award-winning gospel choir. If she were alive today, Sister Thea would still be preaching her inspiring message about peace, love, and giving. Docudrama by Tanshanita.
Teaching and worshiping about world peace was Sister Thea Bowman’s life goal, and she achieved that with love in her heart and selfless giving. Interview by Tanshanita.
For a woman who grew up poor, she couldn't have turned out any richer
… in spirit. With the will power to want to change and set straight what is right for the goodness of not only our community, but injustice anywhere, we honor June Kjome. She was a dedicated nurse and longtime activist who spent 19 years in South Africa treating the sick and needy. For over 40 years, June Kjome has been hard at work on streets and in offices protesting and participating in marches, which shows her over towering integrity and powerful heart used to serve people. View docudrama by Isaiah.
June is an activist that is extremely focused on human rights. She was a nurse in La Crosse and in South Africa. View interview by Isaiah.
Sister Marie Leon La Croix is a woman who has dedicated her life to making sure everyone has access to theater. She envisioned a wonderful, top notch Fine Arts Center that could offer various experiences to the residents of La Crosse. Starting with a dream, we got even more after Sister Marie was asked to start a Fine Arts Department at Viterbo University, which educates students and theatre patrons. When asked about which lessons teens could learn from her, Sister Marie responded, “If you have a dream, you can make it come true if you set high goals, love what you are doing with a passion, and don’t be discouraged by failures. Use your God given gifts to show and help others.” It is with this philosophy that Sister Marie Leon La Croix was able to create the theatre program at Viterbo University. View docudrama by Heather.
Sister Marie Leon LaCroix started the cherished and engaging theater program at Viterbo. View interview by Heather.
A local creator specializing in pottery, Marti is active in the local art community. View interview by Mariah.
A local creator specializing in pottery, Marti is active in the local art community. View interview by Mariah.
Beth Vacek was an outstanding basketball player at Viterbo University. She has worked hard to achieve her goals, and over the span of her athletic career, she has won high school basketball championships, set records for Viterbo University basketball, and immortalized on the Viterbo’s “Wall of Fame.” Besides athletics, Beth is a U.S. military veteran who served in Iraq. View docudrama by Cody.
Beth was inspired by 9-11 to volunteer her service in Iraq. She also coaches basketball, and was a head coach for the Viterbo V-Hawks. View interview by Cody.
Dorothy Wetterlin volunteers for a program called CASA, Court Appointed Security Advocate, which provides support for abused and abandoned children. After earning degrees in health education and biology, Dorothy extended her education to a master’s degree in counseling. She passionately contributes her expertise of health education by volunteering, public speaking, and publishing. View docudrama by Dallas.
Dorothy oversees the care of children who are abused or abandoned and has authored a manual for Gunderson Lutheran Hospital and partners with church organizations and other non-profit groups in La Crosse for the betterment of our children. View interview by Dallas.
Dorothy was a very special woman who lived to be 100 years old. Dorothy journeyed all around the world and made friends in many countries. View interview by Kersten.
Dorothy was a very special woman who lived to be 100 years old. Dorothy journeyed all around the world and made friends in many countries. View interview by Kersten.
During a dangerous time in Southeast Asia, Maomoua Vue was born in Mongcha, Laos. Her family fled to Thailand to escape the hazards of the Vietnam War. Through the jungle and across the river, they hid and ran. Finally, her unforgettable journey led to the United States and moving to Wisconsin with her family. Amazingly, Maomoua learned English quickly and became an interpreter, but she was determined to do more and saw an opportunity to educate the Hmong community. She graduated from Viterbo University and became the first Hmong licensed dietician in Wisconsin. Maomoua says she wouldn’t change one thing about her past because all her experiences have made her who she is today. View docudrama by Hai.
Maomoua is the first Hmong licensed dietician in Wisconsin and among a select group in the United States. View interview by Hai.
Judy Bouffleur is the kind of person that is willing to give back to her community. Whether it be volunteering or playing piano, Judy is dedicated to sharing her gifts with the children and residents of La Crosse. She serves as a volunteer at the public library, the local public schools, the children’s museum, Oktoberfest, and many more charitable organizations. We are very thankful for all the gifts that Judy Bouffleur shares with our community. View docudrama by Sam.
Starting the giving tradition as a child, Judy continutes to give freely of her time and energy as an uplifting volunteer in our community. View interview by Sam.
Starting the giving tradition as a child, Judy continutes to give freely of her time and energy as an uplifting volunteer in our community. View interview by Sam.
Not only has Ann Quinlisk dedicated more than 20 years to the prevention of domestic violence, she has made our whole community a healthier place to live by sharing her expertise and compassion for the well-being of women and children. The Domestic Violence Intervention Program is a free service provided to residents of La Crosse County. Ann says she doesn’t need a plaque or a framed certificate to honor her years of devotion to battered women and children. Instead, her awards are the many people she has helped over the years escape from violent situations and move forward to a happier life. View docudrama by Heather.
Ann Quinlisk is an amazing woman who has given back to our community in many ways with either her dedicated actions in domestic violence or sharing her motivational views on life. View interview by Heather.
Dorothy Dedo was Lieutenant Commander in the United States Navy, founder of the Community Theatre in La Crosse, and many other amazing accomplishments in politics. She has not only impacted La Crosse’s future but also affected what lays ahead for the entire country. View docudrama by Mitchell.
Dorothy Dedo was Lieutenant Commander in the United States Navy, founder of the Community Theatre in La Crosse, and many other amazing accomplishments in politics. She has not only impacted La Crosse’s future but also affected what lays ahead for the entire country. View interview by Mitchell.
Mary Patros has volunteered at various occasions over the past five decades from dressing up and dancing on stage for Senior Miss Wisconsin to playing Mrs. Santa Clause for the Children’s Christmas party at the Shrine. She has served thousands of volunteer hours and yet still has time to devote to her family. Mary has been the recipient of countless awards for her involvement in the prosperity of La Crosse. Her attentiveness towards the community is inspirational. View docudrama by Molly.
Mary Patros has been a devoted volunteer for forty-seven years and has logged almost 30,000 service hours to the La Crosse community. View interview by Molly.
Throughout the years, Rachel Gundersen discovered what her special skills were, like raising children, listening, writing and asking the right questions to get kids talking. When her children reached the high school years, there was a major drug problem creeping into La Crosse. Rachel figured that the only way to get something done about it was to go back to college at the age of 43 and become a La Crosse District school psychologist. Rachel’s message to parents was strong. “Stick with it! It’ll get better.” It turns out that it did get better for many of the parents and teenagers. Rachel was pleased she had made a positive difference. View docudrama by Kelsey.
Rachel's passion is improving children’s lives at home and in schools. She is a talented woman that has plays many roles in our community. View interview by Kelsey.
Born in Laos during the turbulent Vietnam War Era, Pa Moua experienced the courageous move from Thailand to America. Since in La Crosse, Pa Moua assists and educates the Hmong community paying special attention to the elders. She started as an interpreter for the children of the La Crosse School District and then began to help minority students and other service organizations. Pa Moua has been nominated as chairperson of the La Crosse Hmong New Year. She continues to achieve many important goals in her life with determination and passion. View docudrama by Tou.
With boundless determination, Pa Moua became the first Hmong social worker for La Crosse County’s Community Management Organization (CMO). View interview by Tou.
Vernetta is a true inspiration to the people of our community. She is an admirable role model to future women around the area and all over the world. Vernetta was in the Marine Women’s Reserve during World War II and was stationed in El Toro, California as a quartermaster where she helped the military greatly by releasing soldiers to go overseas into combat. After her war years, she became a teacher and reading specialist. Doing so, she helped countless adolescents around the Coulee Region. View docudrama by Tony.
Vernetta is an inspiration to other women in our community. She participated in WWII as a quartermaster in the Marine Women’s Reserve. View interview by Tony.
Marilyn McElligott spends much of her time caring for the needs of others. As a retired nurse for nearly a decade, Marilyn continues sharing her talents of giving and nurturing by volunteering in our community. "I will volunteer "til the day I die,” Marilyn says with conviction. If she were to be honored for her life’s accomplishments, Marilyn would want an award engraved with the words, Devoted Mother and Caring Nurse. The La Crosse community surely benefits from Marilyn’s loving dedication and kind human spirit. View docudrama by Emily.
Marilyn is a retired nurse and fills her additional time with volunteer work. View interview by Emily.
“Give 100% effort in your life.” Bobbi Vandenberg believes and models this in her life as she teaches young people. Interview by Garrett.
“Give your best effort.” A four-word motto that Bobbi Vandenberg can’t stress enough. Whether it’s playing various sports or coaching athletes, Bobbi has shown that she truly lives by her motto. Bobbi is an amazing athlete who doesn’t just play sports. She takes it steps further by creating a passion and a need for teamwork, sportsmanship, and competition. Bobbi participates in athletics like she can’t live without it. Docudrama by Garrett.
Sandra is a well-respected nurse at Gunderson Lutheran Hospital, as well as, an active volunteer supporting charities like the Children’s Miracle Network and American Cancer Society. She belongs to many local organizations that give back to the community and takes on a variety of assignments at the hospital. From the pulmonary clinic to coordinating operations, Sandra can do it all. Docudrama by Marissa.
Sandra works in the nursing and healthcare departments at Gunderson Lutheran Hospital in La Crosse. She is involved in numerous local volunteer activities and belongs to many organizations. Interview by Marissa.
Kathryn dedicated her career to the School District of La Crosse. She was an outstanding teacher that children loved dearly, and she had a knack for knowing just what they needed. Her work as a Curriculum Supervisor was innovative, insightful, and forward thinking. She is highly revered by all those who worked with her. View docudrama by Alyson.
Kathryn was an outgoing, out standing woman praised by her co-workers as an excellent model of an educational executive. View Interview of Ruth Kielley about Kathryn Cappelen (1923-2007) by Carter.
Betty works diligently to ensure that the La Crosse community has a multitude of opportunities to enjoy the beauty of art. Betty has used her vast knowledge to teach appreciation of the creative gifts that have been bestowed upon us. Betty shows that by living in a community, or even traveling somewhere abroad, the artist deep inside of us can emerge simply by appreciating the local talent that the area has to offer. Docudrama by La Sharra.
After earning a college degree in nursing, Nancy joined the United States Navy and was commissioned on the docks of her hometown. During the years of Operation Desert Storm, Nancy courageously spread comfort, strength, and hope to all the patients she encountered in the Great Lakes Naval Hospital. She looks back on her years of military service and is proud of the difference she made in the lives of her patients. Deservedly, Nancy was awarded the U.S. Navy’s Accommodation Medal before being honorably discharged. Docudrama by Kevin.
Nancy Henckel was a United States Navy nurse during Operation Desert Storm and served our country by saving lives at the Great Lakes Naval Hospital. Interview by Kevin.
Marcia Jagdozinske has been the president and CEO of Riverfront Incorporated for many years. Since her involvement, it has grown in size and expanded across both Minnesota and Wisconsin. Marcia models her life by a quote of her father’s,“I have five years of things to do and not much time left to do it.” Riverfront is a round-the-clock job but gives Marcia a full, rewarding life. Positively, Marcia never looks at the past because she is too busy looking at what the future holds. Docudrama by Lesley.
Marcia provides assistance for people living with disabilities through her work with Riverfront, Inc., a non-profit organization serving 55 counties in Wisconsin and Minnesota. Interview by Lesley.
Mary Lu Gerke graduated from college with a nursing degree. Her excellence in the medical profession was honored by a two-time election as Nurse of the Year. As a well respected person in our community, Mary knows that she has made the right choices in her nursing career and credits the many people who influenced her along the way. Docudrama by Josh.
Mary serves as vice president of Clinical Operations at Gundersen Lutheran Hospital and is a respected leader and member of various La Crosse community organizations. Interview by Josh.
Sheila devotes her time and energy to the community of La Crosse to form an exceptional place for living and raising a family. Sheila is the executive director of the La Crosse Community Foundation and has served as La Crosse's 9th District County Board Supervisor. Sheila volunteers and takes care of her own three children. She has an impressive way of turning negative situations into positives. Docudrama by Kaylee.
Sheila is the executive director of the La Crosse Community Foundation and has served as La Crosse's 9th District County Board Supervisor. Interview by Kaylee.
Barb Gibson is a dedicated University of Wisconsin-La Crosse Women's gymnastics coach who gives her time and talents to her athletes. Her natural teaching ability started at the young age of nine when she began to coach and has developed over the years into award-winning coaching skills. Most recently, Barb has been honored as the La Crosse Coach of the Year. Barb Gibson is an outgoing coach with a personality that knows no limits. Docudrama by Cyndi.
Barb coaches the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse women's gymnastics team and has guided and encouraged her team as they won multiple state championships. Interview by Cyndi.
Mary worked with the hearing impaired for more than 30 years. One look and people would say that she was an open hearted, accepting, and giving teacher. One mile in her shoes and you’ll understand the tenacity and strength that was needed for her honorable profession. Docudrama created by Gabrielle.
Mary has touched our community by teaching the hearing impaired. Retirement may have brought her away from the classroom, but it hasn’t stopped her from continuing to contribute. Interview of Mary Cleaver conducted by Gabriella.
Jean Marck took many different roads towards volunteering. The League Of Women Voters is a bigger and stronger association after Jean Marcks’ backbreaking work. The Storybook Project, Mrs. Oktoberfest, the Sons Of Norway, and the Salvation Army are all organizations that have benefited from her involvement. The city of La Crosse will never be able to thank her enough, for she has done so much. Docudrama created by Jay.
Jean touched the community by volunteering in many ways. Her most inspirational contribution is a storybook project that helped incarcerated moms connect with their children. Interview of Jean Marck conducted by Jay.
Margaret Larson believes that history is extremely vital to the world and feels that people should know about the stories that aren’t always told. “Traveling is a way of life,” says Margaret. She thinks experiencing new places and meeting new people is a crucial factor in educating oneself about the past. Margaret recognizes that history is being created right now and life stories are entwined in a bigger picture. She captures these images in the stories she retells and encourages all of us to do the same. Docudrama created by Morgan.
Margaret Larson is an extraordinary woman who acknowledges that history plays a role in everyone’s life, which in turn creates meaningful stories that need to be told. As a local author and historian, Margaret applies this philosophy to her life each day. Interview of Margaret Larson conducted by Morgan.
You are cordially invited to virtually attend the Commencement Ceremony recorded on Tuesday, June 5, 2007. Over the past two years, the Coulee Kids have conducted interviews with over 70 women in our community. This ceremony is meant to celebrate this accomplishment and wrap up the 2006-2007 project. The Road She Traveled is brought to you by kids, hosted by the School District of La Crosse, and sponsored by the League of Women Voters of the La Crosse Area.
Josephine Hintgen was a kind and generous woman. She touched the lives of many with her inspiring words, gentle kindness, and loving spirit. To know Josephine was an honor, and to be guided by her was a gift. Our community decided to give back to her by naming an elementary school in her honor. Docudrama created by Becca.
Josephine was a well-loved guidance counselor in the School District of La Crosse, and as a tribute to her dedication, Hintgen Elementary School was named in her honor. View complete interview of Delores Britt conducted by Cameron, in memory of Josephine Hintgen (1892-1981).
Running for Judge can be one of the hardest things to do, and being the first female doesn’t make the campaign any easier. Dealing with stereotypes and decisions is one of the hardest jobs in the world, but someone has to do it. Ramona A. Gonzalez, was the first female judge in La Crosse. She has plays a huge role in the community, helping with the problems. Ramona Gonzalez is one of those people who want to do more. Docudrama created by Shane.
Ramona Gonzalez was the first female to be elected judge in La Crosse and the first person of color to be elected judge in Wisconsin west of Madison. Interview of Ramona Gonzalez conducted by Shane.
Mussels or clams? For Marian Havlik it is all about mussels. Marian has educated and prompted politicians and other environmentalists to the threatening issues facing the Higgen’s Eye mussels in the Mississippi River Valley. Her leadership and devotion to the future of the mussels brought her to the steps of the White House in Washington, D.C. and a once in a lifetime opportunity to speak with President Bill Clinton. Docudrama created by Natalie.
Inspired by her daughter’s science fair project, Marian Havlik, a devoted environmentalist, has worked to secure the future of the Higgen’s Eye mussel in the surrounding waterways of the Mississippi River. Interview of Marian Havlik created by Natalie.
Inspired by her daughter’s science fair project, Marian Havlik, a devoted environmentalist, has worked to secure the future of the Higgen’s Eye mussel in the surrounding waterways of the Mississippi River. Interview of Marian Havlik created by Natalie.
With sheer determination and a strong business mind, Eleanor St. John co-owned and operated a local television station named KQEG. Also, as a contributing member of the Ho Chunk Nation and Eagles Clan, Elinor integrates her cultural beliefs into her business interactions and daily life. Her willingness to unconditionally help other people, indirectly educate about cultural differences, and share her good fortune with our community makes Eleanor a special attribute to La Crosse. Docudrama created by Kadie.
Influenced by her rich Native American heritage, Eleanor St. John remains an active member of the Ho Chunk Nation and Eagles Clan, in addition to being the former owner of KQEG, a local television station in La Crosse. Interview of Eleanor St. John conducted by Kadie.
Dolly Ozburn is funny, skilled, and ambitious. She was a pitcher in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League and led her team to a League championship in 1952. Her lifetime ERA is 2.04, and you will find her in the Baseball Hall of Fame. Dolly is an accomplished woman, and that is why I was yearning to uncover her story. Docudrama created by Luke E.
As a member of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball Team, Dolly won the hearts of many as she kept the spirit of baseball alive during WWII. Interview of Dolly Ozburn conducted by Luke E.
As a member of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball Team, Dolly won the hearts of many as she kept the spirit of baseball alive during WWII. Interview of Dolly Ozburn by Luke E.
She’s been helping women and La Crosse citizens since the 1970’s and has accomplished much, from starting the first La Crosse Family Planning Center to being the director. Let’s not forget fighting to increase funds for our school district. She’s an active member in many organizations such as the League of Women Voters and has made a difference in many lives. Who is this you ask? It’s Marian Ramlow! Docudrama created by Megan.
Marian has been a strong advocate of family planning and affordable health care for La Crosse families. She became the director of Options Clinic, a community-based health care facility. Interview of Marian Ramlow conducted by Megan.
Janet Kusch is an advocate for health care access for everyone and is passionate about her job providing this service to patients in the La Crosse community. She is well respected and educated and believes strongly in setting and attaining goals. She feels relationships are extremely important in life and that everyone should form bonds with people who respect your mind, body, and spirit. Docudrama created by Melanie.
Janet extends assistance to local teens when deciding on important reproductive health issues. She believes the right answer is always to be safe and think ahead. Interview of Janet Kusch conducted by Melanie.
A woman who made a difference in the world, Anita Froegel is no ordinary woman. She had a child, saved a company, and became a major contributor to the McLoone’s company; that’s who I want to be when I grow up! This woman has an exhilarating story that needs to be revealed to the world! Docudrama created by Mikayla.
As an inspirational La Crosse businesswoman, Anita Froegel soared from a high school graduate to president of McLoone Metal Graphics. View interview of Anita Froegel conducted by Mikayla.
Only a woman filled with determination and passion could have done what this being has. She has become a vice chairwoman on the county board, helped start many programs such as Gifted Hands, has been involved in many corporations like the Mini Bus, and just so much more. She started out as a volunteer, but has now become a role model. Her vision of being heard truly became a reality. She has honestly done what many dream of. I don’t know what La Crosse would be without her. Docudrama created by Amy.
Shirley serves as a La Crosse County Board Supervisor, president of the Wisconsin Counties Association, and numerous committees for the La Crosse County Aging Program. Interview of Shirley Holman conducted by Amy.
Anita Doering is a dedicated woman who works diligently at what she does. Anita is an archivist at the La Crosse Public Library and has been working there since she was 18 years old. She has accomplished many things and knows more about the city’s history than most people. She is an extraordinary woman who you can trust. Anita is a spectacular lady, and you can truly learn a lot from her. Docudrama created by Kylie.
Highly educated, extremely knowledgeable about history and genealogy, and able to help others access historical information are just some of the many talents of Anita Doering. View interview of Anita Doering conducted by Kylie.
People call me selfless, generous, kind, caring, compassionate, and noble, all because I help people in need. I do what needs to get done, and I help people in our community without wanting anything in return. To me, seeing people that I helped living a decent life is the best reward anyone can give me. Docudrama created by Ryan.
Part Two - Jean is an esteemed businesswoman and treasured volunteer in our community. Her energy and enthusiasm toward giving is an inspiration to all. Interview of Jean Basset conducted by Ryan.
Part One - Jean is an esteemed businesswoman and treasured volunteer in our community. Her energy and enthusiasm toward giving is an inspiration to all. Interview of Jean Basset conducted by Ryan.
Shirley Haas has a long list of political activities that strengthen women’s roles. She has improved the legal rights and opportunities of women in our community and made La Crosse a better place for young women of today. Docudrama created by Nikki.
Shirley is active in politics and represents the qualities of a life-long learner. She is an advocate for women's issues and furtherment in our community. Interview of Shirley Haas conducted by Nikki.
Maureen is an avid outdoors woman and environmental activist. She was also one of the first female lawyers in La Crosse. Docudrama created by Zach.
Maureen Kinney has had success as one of the first female lawyers in La Crosse, but what really seperates her from the rest is the work she has done to preserve our environment. This podcast unravels the adventure of Maureen Kinney as she fought to keep a road from running through the beautiful La Crosse marsh. Interview of Maureen Kinney conducted by Ben and Zach.
After watching some of her favorite historic buildings get torn down, Dee Peacock resolved to fight to protect our treasured buildings. She has made a difference to the scenery of our community. Docudrama created by Brandon.
Dee is a strong advocate of historic preservation. Her dedication to historic homes in La Crosse has saved numerous buildings from being demolished so that we may still enjoy them today. View interview of Dee Peacock conducted by Brandon.
Linda was the first woman to get a full athletic scholarship to a Divison I school. She is currently an advocate for women and children in the Coulee Region. Docudrama conducted by Alex.
Linda Seidel was the first woman to get a full scholarship for swimming at Virginia Tech University. She continues this tradition of giving by contributing to our community with her work at the YWCA. Interview of Linda Seidel conducted by Alex.
Sister Le Clare Beres organized and coordinated the Indo-Chinese Screening Clinic and the St. Clare Health Mission, two incredible health organizations in our community. She has dedicated her life to caring for the poor and underserved, and she proves over and over again that the good life isn’t in the having, but in the giving. Docudrama created by Alyssa.
Member of the Fransciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, Sister Le Clare was an essential partner in the St. Clare Health Mission and the Indochinese Screening Clinic. Interview of Sister Le Clare Beres conducted by Alyssa.
Joan Rausch, art historian and historic preservation consultant, has participated in recording the architectural history of La Crosse, Wisconsin. Her patience and perseverance to her cause has provided valuable historical compilations that link our past to our present. Docudrama created by Lindsay.
Joan is an art historian who has consulted on the history of almost every house in the historic districts of La Crosse. View interview of Joan Rausch by Lindsay.
Every step she takes, and every story she tells makes my eyes open one notch more with inspiration. From special needs teaching to in-servicing other teachers, Kathie’s put time and effort to do the best she can for other people. She has that amazing ability to balance her successful career and her family life. From the classroom all the way to the top at Hogan Administrative Center, she shows just how much one person can do in her lifetime. Kathie’s ambitions and goals lead to new opportunities for the School District of La Crosse and the greater community. Docudrama created by Rachel.
As the first female Associate Superintendent in La Crosse, Kathie Tyser is a visionary leader who believes in the continuous improvement of quality schools. Interview of Kathie Tyser conducted by Rachel.
Nancy inspired many girls to stand up for themselves, because in the 1950’s girls didn’t have the same privileges as boys. I was thrilled when I got to interview Mary Rohrer about a woman who has impacted my life as a seventh grade student. Mary told me how Nancy was elected to the school board, became a pioneer for the Girl Scouts, and welcomed the Southeast Asian Hmong into La Crosse. Docudrama by Dalton.
Nancy Gerrard was inspirational in our community serving as a teacher, school board member, Girl Scout supporter, and more. View Interview of Mary Rohrer about Nancy Gerrard (1922-2000) by Dalton.
“If you are not working towards a solution, then you are a part of the problem.” Over the past 30 years, Barb Schultz has worked passionately on various committees advocating for both educators and students. Her work as a teacher, counselor, and leader has positively impacted the lives of countless children, and she is part of the foundation that makes the School District of La Crosse a great place for not only students but staff. Docudrama created by Amy.
Part One -Barb Schultz is a remarkable teacher, counselor, and leader in the School District of La Crosse. Interview of Barb Schultz conducted by Amy.
Part Two -Barb Schultz is a remarkable teacher, counselor, and leader in the School District of La Crosse. Interview of Barb Schultz conducted by Amy.
Sylvia Boma has accomplished something that not many Wisconsin women have even attempted. Sylvia is the first woman to be successfully elected to two terms as the La Crosse County Sheriff. She entered the field of law enforcement at a time when women weren’t likely candidates for police work, but Sylvia recognized what needed to be changed in the sheriff’s department and was determined to make it happen. There was just something about law enforcement and the political process that intrigued Sylvia and motivated her to pursue elected office. We can look to Sylvia as inspiration to step outside of what is expected and create new job definitions. Docudrama of Sylvia Boma conducted by Katie.
Sylvia was the first female to be elected sheriff in La Crosse County. Holding two successful terms, she made changes that still positively impact us today. Interview of Sylvia Boma conducted by Katie.
Mary Sawyer is a monumental person in our community, and it is both astonishing and frustrating how little information is available about a woman who did so much for our city. From helping to create the Women’s Industrial Exchange to donating the money for the original Mary E. Sawyer Auditorium, it is time we give this woman the standing ovation she deserves. Docudrama by Addison.
Mary was one of the founders of the Women’s Industrial Exchange in La Crosse, and she graciously donated the entire amount for the original Mary E. Sawyer Auditorium. Interview of Signe Schroeder conducted by Addison, in memory of Mary E. Sawyer (1856-1941).
A woman runs for election in 1932, when women did not play an important role in politics. Nellie Soules must go through many obstacles to take her chance on being the first. She must ignore threats, be courageous, and never give up. Listen to the extraordinary story of Nellie Soules. Docudrama created by Alex.
In 1932, Nellie Soules was the first woman to run for political office in our community. She ran for Assembly in the First District of La Crosse County on the Progressive Party ticket. Interview of Jean Seitz conducted by Alex, in memory of her Grandmother, Nellie Soules (1885-1967).
For every second that passes, another woman is hurt by her husband. For every day that goes by, another woman tries to escape her husband’s fists. For every week that goes by, another woman finds herself at New Horizons. Step into the mind of Sue Mercier, an amazing woman who changed the course of thousands of lives in La Crosse, Wisconsin. All you have to do to walk in her shoes, and experience her life, is to listen. Docudrama of Sue Mercier by Marissa.
Sue Mercier is a role model and advocate for women's issues and one of the founding mothers of New Horizons Women's Shelter and Center in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Interview of Sue Mercier by Marissa.
Bishop April Larson is a woman of strength, courage and compassion. She took a huge step by becoming a bishop. This is a remarkable achievement, because she was only the second female in the world to become bishop of the Lutheran church. Listen in to hear an amazing story of conviction. Docudrama of April Larson created by Kim.
Reverend Larson was the first woman in the nation to be elected Bishop in the 5.2-million member Lutheran denomination and only the second in the world. Interview of April Larson by Kim.
A love for the beautiful landscape of the Coulee Region is what drives Barb Frank to continue to protect and nurture our natural resources. Her dedication to preservation of a healthy environment will ensure that generations of children will enjoy what we so often take for granted in our community, a healthy, awe inspiring natural world to look at, play in, and enjoy just by walking out our back door. Docudrama created by Mitch.
Barbara Frank is a dedicated environmentalist and advocate for the preservation of natural resources in the Coulee Region. View interview of Barbara Frank conducted by Mitch.
Louise Zoerb comes to the Children’s Home in La Crosse, because her parents cannot take care of her. Josephine Fletcher, director of the home, is like a mother to her and treats her like one of her own. Ms. Fletcher tries to make the best life possible for all the children. The community provides the kids with so much, but it wouldn’t be possible without this amazing woman. What would we do without you, Ms. Fletcher? You have done so much for us, and we will never forget you. Docudrama created by Zach.
Josephine Fletcher ran the La Crosse Home for Children from 1936 until 1955, where she touched the lives of countless children. Josephine was a kind and loving woman who dedicated her life to the children in her care. Interview of Louise Zoerb conducted by Zach, in memory of Josephine Fletcher (1897-1967).
A woman who can do it all best describes Carroll Gundersen. She did everything, including embroidering, politics, homemaker, League of Women Voters representative, and more. Carroll Gundersen was intimidating to men, enough so to get a ‘Man of the Year’ Award, but humble enough to host small parties in her home. To shortly sum up her life’s legacy, you might say, “She was a pioneer in our community as far as education of citizens and encouraging them to take part in government and in volunteer work. Those are the important leadership things that she did,” spoken by Rachel Gundersen. Still, almost twenty years after her death, Carroll still represents enough power to bring a grown woman to tears. Docudrama created by Parker.
Part One - Carroll Gundersen is remembered for her strong leadership skills, local and national volunteer work, and her ability to multitask family, social responsibilities and causes. Interview of Peg Fish, Rachel Gundersen, and Marian Ramlow by Parker, in memory of Carroll Gundersen (1902-1989).
Part Two - Carroll Gundersen is remembered for her strong leadership skills, local and national volunteer work, and her ability to multitask family, social responsibilities and causes. Interview of Peg Fish, Rachel Gundersen, and Marian Ramlow by Parker, in memory of Carroll Gundersen (1902-1989).
“Earn all you can, save all you can, and give all you can” is what Gertrude Salzer Gordon learned and practiced all her life. She experienced joy and hurt, but no matter what, she never stopped improving our community. Gertrude gave, helped, and loved selflessly. A private woman, she never needed her name in lights, and that is why most people have no idea how much she has impacted La Crosse. Docudrama created by Caroline.
Gertrude Salzer Gordon was one of the most prominent, yet unrecognized philanthrophists in the La Crosse community. Interview of Judy Bouffleur conducted by Caroline, in memory of Gertrude Salzer Gordon (1906-1998).
Welcome to the Road She Traveled, a student-created project to honor women in our community who have made a difference. Jay, a seventh grade student, explains how this project evolved.
In order to create this overview, Jay interviewed Jean Marck and Margaret Larson, representatives of the League of Women Voters, as well as his teachers Mrs. Halderson and Mrs. Ramsay.
Jay’s role was the Visual File Manager, and he coordinated the sharing and archiving of all the scanned images and photos taken. His organizational skills and quick thinking were critical to this project’s success!