Over the past year, I’ve shared insights and information on Tempo Racine through my blog, Carolynn’s Corner. This year, I’d like to put the spotlight on our membership by highlighting individual members. Recently, I sat down with Liz Hanson-Will, owner, operator, and outpatient mental health therapist at Therapy Solutions.

Liz grew up in Racine and proudly attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison for both her undergraduate and graduate degrees in Social Work. After moving away for a time, she returned to Wisconsin in 2000 and began working with children and families in treatment foster care. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Wisconsin who has also worked as a school counselor, outpatient mental health therapist and Executive Director at Family Service of Racine. Liz now owns her own outpatient solo practice in town.  She and her husband enjoy travel, gardening and reading in their free time.

What led you to becoming a Tempo Racine member?

Jenny Eastman invited me to a luncheon, and I found the women very welcoming and supportive.   At the time I joined, I was the leader of a local non-profit and being the leader can be isolating as you don't have peers within your organization to whom you can vent.  I found the women of Tempo to be the peer group I needed in terms of support and ideas.  I then had a chance to see the upcoming programming and really liked the variety offered. 

What is an important piece of advice for female leaders?

Seeking collaborative work in an organization is not being "unwilling to make the tough decisions" as it is sometimes portrayed.  Rather it is investing in team building, gaining buy-in from staff and providing stabilization for the organization as a whole and therefore it is critical.

What is your favorite thing to do in Racine?

I love the variety of locally owned restaurants and bakeries that we have!

Thanks to Liz for being our first membership profile! The Board and I look forward to sitting down with more members and sharing their experience and advice with you.

Carolynn Friesch

Tempo Racine, President