For Immediate Release – May 7, 2025

Contact:
Brian Otten, Marketing Director
Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce
715-848-5947 | botten@wausauchamber.com

Pair of former Chamber team members celebrate academic achievements

WAUSAU — The Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce celebrates the recent academic achievements of a pair of former members of the staff.

Garrett Close served as a Workforce, Education and Innovation Intern at the Chamber the summers before both his junior and senior years of high school in 2023 and 2024. Close will graduate this month from DC Everest High School and will attend the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business beginning this fall. The Wharton School of Business was the first collegiate business school in the world, opening in 1881. It is recognized globally for its intellectual leadership and innovation across all areas of business education.

“Most of my work with the Chamber focused on creating a bridge between the current workforce and the next generation, a topic I had little thought about but soon became passionate about,” said Close. “Working closely with the Chamber’s Lukas Lindner, my first project at the Chamber was developing the framework for a new Youth Council. My next big project was the Powering Innovation Project which connects local companies from all sectors with resources to help them grow through new technologies.”

Madi Woller served as the Chamber’s Programs and Events Manager in 2022 and 2023. Woller left the Chamber to pursue her Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at the University of Southern Mississippi, graduating last month.

“I’m returning to Wisconsin and will be practicing as a Marriage and Family Therapist In-Training (MFT-IT) as I continue to complete the required post-graduate clinical hours toward full licensure,” said Woller. “I am currently seeking a therapist job in the greater Wausau area.”

 MFTs are licensed mental health professionals trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of emotional, mental and relational challenges. They specialize in working with individuals, couples and families to improve communication, resolve conflict and strengthen relationships.

“I have a particular interest in working with individuals who are struggling with addiction and trauma, aiming to support clients on their path to recovery, healing and personal growth,” said Woller. “I’m thrilled to return to Wausau with a renewed passion for helping others. I believe that change is possible for everyone and I’m committed to walking alongside future clients as they create healthier, more fulfilling lives.”

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The Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce is the source for business information in the Wausau Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). The organization has earned a 5-Star Accreditation, one of only two chambers in the state with that designation. The Chamber strengthens member businesses and enhances the region by building business success. For more information on the Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce, visit us online at www.wausauchamber.com or call 715-845-6231.