Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I am one of nine children in the Wied family. Growing up in Greendale, we were always close-knit, and our family’s bond remains strong. Although we’ve spread out geographically, we still maintain our connections and support each other. I have two wonderful adult children, Allie (an Environmental Geographer) and Tyler (an Eagle Scout and Electrical Engineer), who make me proud of them for their hard work and perseverance. My return to Greendale has brought me closer to my mom (who lives in the “M” section) and allowed me to rekindle those family and friend ties.

Q: Please tell us about your current career. What do you love most about what you do?
I am currently in my 34th year of teaching, and what I love most is the opportunity to work with students and see them grow and succeed. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of their educational journey and contribute to their development. Additionally, my roles as School Board President and Milwaukee County Supervisor allow me to influence educational policies and community initiatives, which I find deeply fulfilling.

Q: Please tell us about any volunteering that you have done or currently do.
I am actively involved in several volunteer roles. As a member of the Greendale Lion’s Club, I serve on the scholarship committee, helping to provide financial support to students. I also support and volunteer for the Greendale Children’s Garden, which is a cause close to my heart. Additionally, I serve as an advisor for the Milwaukee County Youth Commission and on the boards of the Milwaukee Public Library and the Milwaukee County Federated Library System, working to enhance library services and support educational programs.

Q: Please tell us about any interesting or unique hobbies that you have?
One of my unique hobbies is dog mushing. I have participated in the amazing sport of dog mushing and have assisted with the Iditarod Dog Sled Race in Alaska as a dog handler. It’s a thrilling and challenging sport that connects me with nature and the incredible world of sled dogs. I incorporate the Iditarod Dog Sled Race into my teaching of my middle school students to help build a love of the sport and all of the life lessons that are connected with this sport. In 2017, I was able to drive a team of nine sled dogs 30 miles down the Iditarod Trail. It was the experience of a lifetime. I greatly enjoy spending time with my dogs, Kenai and Sequoia.

Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in Greendale? What do you love there?
I’m a big fan of Ricardo’s for its delicious Italian cuisine (especially their pizza) and welcoming atmosphere. The Eleanor Room is another favorite of mine, known for its cozy setting and great food (their bacon is delicious.) I enjoy the Panther Pub for its relaxed vibe, good food and wonderful owners Mike and Sissy. I also love meeting with friends and constituents at Broad Street Coffee to talk about everything Greendale and Supervisory District 11.

Q: How long have you lived or worked in Greendale?
I grew up in Greendale beginning in 1976 and graduated from Greendale High School in 1985. I lived in the area until I got married and moved away to raise my family. I taught in Greendale for six years (1996-2002) and I returned to live in Greendale in 2012. It has been wonderful to reconnect with my roots and contribute to the community.

Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in Greendale?
One of the most interesting people I’ve met in Greendale is Dee Dixon, a retired Greendale Intermediate/Middle School teacher and dedicated community advocate whose tireless work has significantly impacted local children and programs. Her passion for making a difference and her deep knowledge of the community have been truly inspiring. Dee was a role model to me in my work as an educator. Dee is the co-founder of the Greendale Reading Buddies Program that brings community members into the schools to read with first graders in the Greendale School District. I enjoyed having her as my neighbor for her final years in Greendale and miss our daily walks and conversations about everything we could discuss about Greendale and teaching.

Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
If I could travel anywhere right now, I would choose to visit Europe and Scandinavia. I’m particularly interested in exploring the places where my ancestors came from (Denmark; France and Germany), and experiencing the rich history and culture of these regions would be incredibly meaningful.

Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
One of my favorite movies is “The Shawshank Redemption” for its powerful themes of hope and resilience. I also love “A League of Their Own” for its humor and focus on the sport of baseball. I worked for the Milwaukee Brewers for 8 years and spent over 40 years of my life playing softball (mostly as a catcher) and can relate to Gina Davis in this movie which is also very humorous. As for TV shows, I enjoyed “Northern Exposure” for its portrayal of life in Alaska (a place I’d love to go to teach someday). I also enjoy “The West Wing” for its engaging portrayal of politics and leadership.

Q: What advice would you give to people?
My advice is to stay engaged with your community and always be willing to contribute your time and talents. Whether through volunteering, participating in local events, or supporting local businesses, every effort helps strengthen the community. Give back to your community and “In a world where you can be anything, Be Kind.”

Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Traveling to Europe and Scandinavia is high on my bucket list. I’m eager to explore these regions and connect with my ancestral roots while experiencing their unique cultures and landscapes. I also hope to travel to Australia someday.

Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
When I can’t decide what to listen to, I often go for The Beatles. Their timeless music is always uplifting and enjoyable. Celine Dion is a powerful singer and person. I recently viewed her documentary “I Am Celine Dion” and truly admire her for her talent and wish her the best as she struggles with a life altering disease. Another favorite singer of mine was John Denver. I find his songs to be relaxing and comforting to listen to. “Sunshine on My Shoulders” is my favorite song. (I must admit I also had a crush on John Denver growing up.)

Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about Greendale?
Current local business: Ricardo’s makes me particularly nostalgic about Greendale. It’s a place where I have many fond memories of family dinners and gatherings with friends. A former local business that makes me feel nostalgic is the Village Cone Shop. It was a favorite place to go to and hang out during my middle school years. Farrells at Southridge and the Orange Bowl pizza place are two additional nostalgic businesses.

Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would you meet for this lunch?
I would love to have lunch with someone like Melinda Gates. Her work in education and philanthropy is impressive, and I would be interested in discussing ways to further support and enhance educational opportunities. We could meet at The Eleanor Room for a meaningful conversation.

Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about Greendale?
What I love most about Greendale is its strong sense of community and its ability to blend a small-town charm with modern growth. It’s a place where you truly feel a sense of belonging and connection. I enjoy walking my dogs through the Village and meeting with neighbors and visitors in our community. I’m so proud to be a member of Greendale and product of Greendale Public Schools.

Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
In 5 to 10 years, I see myself continuing to contribute to Greendale through my teaching, leadership and community service roles. I hope to remain actively involved in local initiatives and support the development of programs that benefit our residents, particularly our youth. I would love to serve on the Wisconsin State Education Committee someday.

Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
Most people don’t know that I am the first woman thru hiker of the 1,000 mile Ice Age National Scenic Trail.  In 1997, my two year old daughter Allison, her dad and I became the first family to hike the entire trail. We met dozens of people from all over the state during our hike. It was a challenging experience to say the least especially doing so with a two year old. It took us 50 days and we camped outside in a tent for the entire summer. We were featured in newspapers and on news stations all over the state. Click here to see one of our interviews. It was an experience of a lifetime that we’ll cherish forever. I’m currently a member of the Wisconsin Go Hiking Club where I join area friends on hikes all over southeastern Wisconsin. Our club is celebrating its 100 year anniversary this year.

Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
The Matanuska Glacier in Alaska is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited. It feels like a whole new world with its stunning icy landscapes and serene environment. Actually, I love the entire state of Alaska and travel there as often as I can.

Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
My favorite month is October because of the beautiful fall colors and cooler weather (and it’s the heart of my fall dryland racing season where I spend countless hours in Northern Wisconsin and the UP.) My favorite holiday is Thanksgiving for its focus on family and gratitude. The best single day on the calendar is the Fourth of July, with its celebrations, fireworks and most importantly it is the day my parents Abner and Joanne Wied were married.

Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
A perfect day spent with family and friends, enjoying good food, great conversation, and making lasting memories, would definitely be rated a 10 out of 10.

Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My parents Abner and Joanne Wied inspire me to be better. They sacrificed a lot to help raise all of my siblings and me. Most importantly they helped foster my understanding of the importance of a good education and serving others. I am also inspired by teachers, community leaders and volunteers who dedicate their time and resources to making a positive impact (especially in the lives of children.) Their commitment and selflessness motivate me to strive for continuous improvement and contribution. Mother Theresa and Princess Diana are two powerful women who have inspired me to serve others.

Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
I love the smell of a campfire in the northern woods and the aroma of freshly baked bread. Both evoke feelings of comfort, nature and home.

Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Family, love, and belonging.