Best Buddies Wisconsin State Director - Theresa Nemetz
Theresa Nemetz, Best Buddies Wisconsin State Director | Photo Credit: Reminisce Studio by Miranda & Adam
Background
Theresa (Dodson) Nemetz joined the Best Buddies Wisconsin team as State Director – Wisconsin in May 2010. Theresa attended UW-Whitewater (BusAd ’97), resided in Washington D.C. briefly for an internship at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, and then returned to Wisconsin where she has built her fundraising career.
Prior to the State Director role for Best Buddies Wisconsin, Theresa’s career had been focused primarily on soliciting corporate sponsorship for black-tie galas, building relationships, and spurring collaboration amongst constituents. Outside of work, Theresa enjoys traveling, exploring local eateries, and motoring in a MINI Cooper with her husband, Wade. Most recently, Theresa graduated from the Future Milwaukee program (Class of 2009).
Why did you choose Best Buddies for employment?
The mission of Best Buddies International is so impactful, and I am proud to be a part of such a spirited team. Becoming the State Director for Best Buddies International’s continued growth in Wisconsin is my proudest career accomplishment, and I look forward to watching Best Buddies Wisconsin flourish and really make a true difference in the lives of thousands of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Launched in 2007, Best Buddies Wisconsin has quickly expanded within middle and high schools, and colleges. Today, I am honored to be a part of the Best Buddies movement. We have chapters in 30 middle school, high school and college campuses in the state and are privileged to impact more than 16,000 students and family members in Wisconsin annually.
What does friendship mean to you?
Imagine, for just a moment, your life with no friends. I recently spoke with a mother, who expressed herself to me with tears of joy after her 18-year old daughter, a new participant to the Best Buddies Wisconsin program, received her very first phone call from a friend.
When I look back on that youthful period of my life, the most cherished memories I have are with my friends and the experiences we shared. This is what friendship means to me, and Best Buddies Wisconsin plays a pivotal role in ensuring that same experience for others.
