Mission
The best innovations in government start at the local level. We focus on equipping Wisconsin’s locally elected leaders with skills in governance, communication, community engagement, and policy strategy—so they can not only make sound decisions, but also build trust and drive equitable change. Strong local leadership is essential to a thriving democracy.
The Challenge
Between School Boards, County Boards, City Councils, and local Executives, Wisconsin has over 13,000 local elected officials. No organization or government agency keeps track of all our state’s board and council members. There is a void in leadership development and training for elected officials to learn how to become legislators and, moreso, how to be effective as legislators.
There is also no single organization aimed specifically at supporting and training local elected officials. Many boards don’t understand basics like Robert’s Rules of Order, quorum, and drafting legislation. This lack of knowledge leads many new local elected officials to feel intimidated and unprepared to represent their constituents. This is where the Wisconsin Progress Institute steps forward.
Board Members
Emily Siegrist, President
Pooja Bambha-Arora
Jackie Boynton
Luke Fuszard
Nathan Schwantes
Sarah Watson