Pillars of the Community

CONNIE PUKAITE HONORED AS PILLAR OF THE COMMUNITY

as Mequon-Thiensville Community Foundation Celebrates 25th Anniversary

On June 4, 2024, the Mequon-Thiensville Community Foundation (MTCF) held its annual Pillars of the Community event at North Shore Country Club. A sold-out crowd of over 275 family, friends, guests and dignitaries were in attendance to celebrate this year's honoree, former Mequon Mayor Connie Pukaite. Connie was recognized for her many years of service as a City of Mequon Mayor, Alderman, and Rotarian as well as her significant and lasting contributions to the community. During the event, Lee Szymborski, past Mequon City Administrator, fellow Rotarian and 25-year Mequon resident shared the following: "We all need role models, Connie, and though you may feel a little self-conscious about this honor, your contributions, your role-modeling, the manner in which you worked for the common good, remind us of the power of civic accord". According to long-time friend and fellow Rotarian Sandy Custer, "Connie always ends up in a leadership role because her abilities, judgment, and enthusiasm are so well respected". After accepting the Pillars of the Community award, a teary-eyed, heartfelt Connie said "As I look out at this crowd, I am humbled by how many of my friends, family and coworkers have come today and are listening on zoom and I am speechless--but I was just the connector and organizer.  It took all of you to make things happen."

MTCF president Lori Lorenz reported that the event netted over $75,000. While $30,000 of that will go towards MTCF's general fund to be used for grants to the community, an impressive $45,000 was donated via a paddle raise at the event, helping to fund the development of a connector trail between Spirit Lake and Pukaite Woods, both in Mequon.

Marking the Community Foundation's 25th anniversary, the event featured several notable presentations to commemorate the significant impact MTCF has had on the community.  First, State Senator Dan Knodl presented a Citation by the Senate plaque, recognizing the Foundation's commendable mission and efforts to maintain high-quality facilities, services, and programs throughout the City and Village. Similarly, Mequon Mayor Andrew Nerbun and Thiensville Village President John Rosing, each presented Proclamation plaques to the Foundation, to honor and celebrate 25 years of service and dedication to the betterment of our communities.

In a surprising gesture, Mayor Nerburn officially declared June 4, 2024, as Mequon-Thiensville Community Foundation Day and urged residents, businesses, and community members to show their support and extend appreciation for the members' service and efforts that have enhanced and strengthened the City of Mequon over the past 25 years and yet into the future.