For our December Membership Spotlight, Tempo Racine Program Chair Liz Hanson-Will sat down with Alison Sergio, executive director of Health Care Network.

Having earned a Bachelor’s in Social Work and a Master of Business Administration, Alison Sergio, Executive Director of Health Care Network since 2014, has worked in the nonprofit sector for over 26 years. Alison is also an adjunct instructor at UW-Milwaukee's Child Welfare Partnership Program within the Helen Bader School of Social Welfare. She has abundant experience in grant writing as well as program development and implementation with a proven track record of positive outcomes.

What led you to becoming a Tempo Racine member? What do you most appreciate about in regard to Tempo?

I was introduced to Tempo by Lynelle Saunders.  What drew my interest was all of the interesting women who were already members and the prospect of building a bigger network.  Not being from Racine, I was looking for a way to learn more about the community and the “movers and shakers” within this community.  I have enjoyed my many connections and have found it not only a socializing experience but have also made connections related to my work.  I truly believe that both learning and change can only happen when people make strong connections with each other, and that building rapport is the foundation for every positive impact we make.  Because of this, I greatly value my Tempo Racine membership.     

What is an important piece of advice for female leaders?

Throughout my 20-year career in nonprofit management, I have been afforded many opportunities that have gotten me to where I am today.  I have had so many incredible experiences that have taught me so much and molded not only my career, but my entire life.  Because I have been given so many opportunities, I believe that it is my responsibility to share my knowledge with those who are just beginning their careers or who are questioning what they want their futures to look like.  Mentorship is so very important!  And I encourage women leaders to participate in some level of mentoring, whether it be in a school setting or within the workplace.  This only serves to make our community stronger!

Do you have suggestions for what Tempo can do better/different/more of to enhance membership value?

I am so impressed with the changes that Tempo has made and the many more offerings there have been (meeting with other Tempo groups, and extra evening meet ups).  I am also very excited about this year’s holiday celebration!  At this time, I cannot think of other suggestions, but I sure do like the direction we have been going! 

What is your favorite thing to do in Racine?

When I first learned of the career opportunity at Health Care Network, I admit that I was less than thrilled that the organization was located in Racine.  I didn’t know anything about the community.  However, it did not take long for me to learn of what a gem Racine really is.  And so, I have spent time exploring the many offerings.  Racine offers a beautiful beach and a fabulous zoo that I like to visit.  But I think my favorite part is the many amazing people that I can now call friends in a city I am proud to be a part of!

Carolynn Friesch

President, Tempo Racine