Earlier this year, College Possible Wisconsin partnered with Kohler Co. to create the Kohler Scholars Program. In addition to renewable educational scholarships, the Kohler Scholars program provides hands-on experiences for College Possible Wisconsin students including career exploration, internship opportunities and mentorship. In the spring, we announced three College Possible scholars as Kohler Scholar recipients: Cecilia, Susan and Excel. Now they will be paired with their Kohler mentors:
Christine Perkins
Christine has been with Kohler for more than six years and is currently a Director of Employment Brand & HR Communications.
Christine attended the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point as an undergraduate, where she received her bachelor’s degree in communications and public relations. She is a certified Six Sigma Green Belt and Prosci change-management practitioner. Christine is also a combat veteran of the U.S. Army Reserve, serving in Iraq from 2004 to 2005, and is a proud member of the Kohler Alliance of Veterans & Supporters (KAVS) Business Resource Group.
Being a part of the Kohler Scholars Program is important to Christine, as she was blessed to have her own early-career mentor, a wonderful woman named Anna. Anna inspired Christine to imagine bigger possibilities in her life and professional journey. Now, it’s Christine’s joy to pay that gift forward and serve others.
Michael Brooks
Michael has been with Kohler for more than 22 years and is currently a Senior Staff Quality Engineer, Metals, within the Kohler Kitchen & Bath Group.
Michael attended Clemson University as an undergraduate, receiving a bachelor’s degree in ceramic engineering. Michael also has a Master of Business Administration from the University of Texas at Dallas.
Being a part of the Kohler Scholars Program reflects Michael’s appreciation for his own past mentors and allows him to share what he has learned with future leaders.
Elisa Spadaccini
Elisa has been with Kohler for more than 14 years and is currently a Staff Engineer, Program Management & Services, Diesel Engines, within the Kohler Power Group. Elisa is based in Reggio Emilia, Italy.
Elisa attended the University of Modena & Reggio Emilia and has a master’s degree in management engineering. Her focus of study involved economics, production, logistics and management.
Elisa was drawn to the Kohler Scholars Program as it is a great opportunity to share her experience with young people and contribute to their growth.
In preparation for the mentorship kickoff, Christine, Michael, and Elisa attended training sessions led by LaNelle Ramey and Betty Hill of MENTOR Greater Milwaukee. These sessions have provided them with the skills, knowledge, and resources to build healthy and successful mentor relationships with their College Possible scholars.
