A Season of Change: Reflecting on Personal Milestones and Professional Legacies
Life has a way of presenting us with profound moments that compel us to pause, reflect, and embrace new beginnings. For me, this sentiment is amplified by a deeply personal joy: witnessing my youngest son embark on his marital journey. As I sat there, a wave of parental pride washed over me, not just for him, but for the incredible woman who will now walk alongside him. Knowing she is a source of love and support, poised to help him blossom into the very best version of himself, is a truly gratifying experience.
This personal reflection has also prompted a professional introspection. During the recent holiday season, I took the opportunity to consider the future of the ETF (Employee Trust Funds). It has become clear to me that this is also the opportune moment for me to step into a new chapter of my own life. Consequently, I have informed the ETF Board of my intention to retire at the close of July.
This was by no means a facile decision. I have been immensely fortunate to lead an organization comprised of individuals who are not only dedicated but also deeply committed to supporting our members and each other. Their collective efforts have been instrumental in shaping ETF into its most effective and exemplary form.
But here's where it gets inspiring... The progress and growth witnessed at ETF during my tenure have been nothing short of remarkable. Recent accomplishments have solidified my conviction that ETF's future is exceptionally bright.
Last year marked a significant step forward in enhancing member services with the introduction of online statements of benefits for non-retirees. This initiative was a direct response to the clear need for accessible online information and services. The sheer volume of over 126,000 duplicate statements downloaded by members in anticipation of the 2025 statements powerfully underscores this demand. This not only elevates the member experience but also yields considerable savings in staff time and postage costs.
This year, we are continuing this momentum with the implementation of our new insurance administration system, aptly named My Insurance Benefits. This modern and intuitive platform will empower members to manage their various insurance benefits with unprecedented ease.
Furthermore, through constructive dialogue and collaboration with the administration and members of the Joint Committee on Finance (JCF), we have successfully secured crucial funding for a new pension administration system. This ambitious project is slated to commence later this year, replacing a patchwork of systems that have been in place for 16 to 38 years. This modernization is a monumental leap forward, as acknowledged by the JCF in their statement: “Our investment to modernize the WRS pension administration system not only serves our current annuitants but ensures the system will be able to serve Wisconsinites for years to come.”
I have always viewed my role as Secretary as that of a partner, dedicated to supporting the agency in its pursuit of becoming its best self. With the commencement of a multi-year endeavor to implement this vital new pension administration system, the timing is perfect for ETF to welcome a new leader who can champion this initiative from start to finish.
Reflecting on my time as Secretary, I feel a profound sense of pride. While it may not mirror the unique joy of seeing your child marry, it is akin to the satisfaction derived from witnessing the achievements of those you hold dear. The ETF staff are the very embodiment of public service. Their unwavering commitment to our customers and their relentless drive for continuous improvement have positioned ETF to achieve its highest potential. You are, indeed, in excellent hands.
And this is the part most people miss... While the modernization of our systems is critical, the true strength of ETF lies in its people. Do you believe that technological advancements can truly replace the human element in public service, or do they merely enhance it? I'm eager to hear your thoughts on how we can best balance innovation with the invaluable personal touch in serving our members. Let me know in the comments!
