I recently sat down with Kelly Fragassi, executive director of Volunteer Center of Racine County. Kelly was recently appointed Executive Director in September and joined Tempo Racine in October.

Kelly holds both her Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Master's degree in Business Administration from National Louis University Chicago, IL and her dynamic background includes leadership roles in Finance, Procurement and Operations Management. She is known to lead by example, volunteering and participating in the events that she coordinates as well as her notable sense of compassion for those she serves.

A Chicago native, Kelly has resided in Wisconsin for the past six years and enjoys raising her daughter Alana to have the same passion for volunteerism as she. Kelly is inspired by her coworkers’ dedication to the enhancing the well-being of the community and her commitment to working hard in collaboration with her team will lead the Volunteer Center of Racine County into a bright future.

What led you to becoming a Tempo Racine member?

I was interested in Tempo because I love the idea of connecting with women who are in similar positions and who have come up in the same environment as myself, so I can learn from their experience and also share my experience with them as well. By learning from each other’s successes and failures we are able to draw from knowledge that we don’t always have firsthand and those perspectives can only help us become better leaders in the end.

What is an important piece of advice for female leaders?

Any opposition to your vision is simply an opportunity to enhance or cement your vision. You do not need to take everyone’s advice; just choose what you think is best and learn from your mistakes. Have faith that you will rise to your full potential regardless of what anyone says to you, so as long as you persevere.

What is your favorite thing to do in Racine? 

My favorite thing to do in Racine is to sit by the water and watch the lake while sitting on a park bench. I usually find a spot on the south side where I can go and just relax and get away from all the noise and action of the city. But now that the word is out, I may have to find a new spot!!

Carolynn Friesch

President, Tempo Racine