Celebrating 40 years of Women of Distinction!
On May 17, 2024, the Women and Girls Fund of Waukesha County welcomed over 650 guests to celebrate a major milestone: the 40th anniversary of the Women of Distinction Luncheon. This annual tradition recognizes exceptional women and girls in Waukesha County who lead, serve, and inspire our community.
Held at the Brookfield Conference Center, this luncheon honored four remarkable individuals—three Women of Distinction and one Young Woman of Tomorrow—as well as a local artist whose work was presented to each honoree.
Read on to learn more about our 2024 honorees and featured artist.
Meet Erin DeJarlais: 2024 Women of Distinction Honoree
Erin is a manager with Inception Health, Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin health network’s innovation and digital health accelerator. Not only is she a dedicated healthcare professional, but she is also a passionate advocate for women’s and girls’ empowerment. Her dedication is evident in her work; while serving as a PT on the Level 1 Trauma Unit, she was exposed to the challenges faced by individuals from diverse backgrounds, fueling her passion for developing creative, equitable healthcare access for those patients with limited access. Additionally, her leadership role within Froedtert’s Women in Leadership Business Resource Group reflects her commitment to making a difference.
Erin’s impact extends beyond her professional role. She generously gives her time to various community initiatives and organizations, including Habitat for Humanity, Hope House, Hunger Task Force, Project Homeless Connect, ERA’s Senior Network, The Equity Collaborative, The United Way, TEMPO, Professional Dimensions, and Junior Achievement, all while inspiring others with her integrity and enthusiasm.
Meet Karlee Horlacher: 2024 Women of Distinction Honoree
As the corporate accounts manager for Inpro in Muskego, Karlee has achieved remarkable success, embodying integrity, teamwork, and dedication to her goals. Her inclusive approach to leadership celebrates diversity and equality and inspires those around her to strive for excellence. Being one of a handful of women managers at Inpro, Karlee’s journey is a testament to her hard work and determination. She works alongside her teammates to motivate other women at Inpro to continue to move up in the business. In addition, Karlee also owns her own business called Heavenly Sleeps, which offers baby garments and accessories, while a portion of product sales benefit pregnancy outreach centers nationwide.
Karlee’s passion for empowering women and girls is a personal belief and a commitment she lives by. Her volunteer work with organizations such as the Distinguished Young Women of Wisconsin Scholarship Program and Life’s Connection Community Health and Education Center showcases her dedication to uplifting others and creating opportunities for women of all backgrounds to thrive. Whether coaching girls to excel in pageant competitions or fundraising for families in need, Karlee’s generosity and organizational skills leave a lasting impact on the lives of those she serves, and we are truly appreciative of her efforts.
Meet Ana Simpson: 2024 Women of Distinction Honoree
Ana Simpson serves as the CEO of Girl Scouts of Wisconsin Southeast. She channels her decade-long experience as a troop leader into a mission to shape the next generation of leaders. Her leadership fosters an inclusive environment for local Girl Scouts to learn and grow beyond the classroom. Her dedication to the organization has already inspired change in programming and community involvement. Ana’s dedication to removing barriers and championing women’s progress resonates deeply, earning her the well-deserved title of a true culture warrior.
Beyond her professional career, Ana’s passion for serving the community is showcased through many roles and commitments. Ana advocates for social justice and equity, from her directorship at the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority to her active involvement with TEMPO-Milwaukee and La Casa de Esperanza’s Leadership Advisory Board. Her volunteer work with La Familia de Arte underscores her profound dedication to empowering communities with vital resources. As a daughter of immigrant parents, Ana’s advocacy reflects a deeply personal commitment to creating opportunities for future generations.
Meet Lily Pemble: 2024 Young Woman of Tomorrow Honoree
Lily is a senior at Muskego High School who has achieved straight-A grades. She is also a sophomore at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (Waukesha Campus), where she is studying to become a chemical engineer. Lily’s academic journey has been impressive, including undergraduate research, advocacy for dual-enrollment opportunities, and participation in prestigious events such as Research in the Rotunda.
Lily is an exceptional individual who demonstrates leadership and service outside the classroom. She is a dedicated Girl Scout who has earned the prestigious Gold Award by promoting inclusivity through accessible camping experiences. Lily is also the co-president of Muskego’s Best Buddies, where she fosters inclusion and mentorship for disabled students. In addition, she is the vice president of Société Honoraire de Français, where she promotes language learning and cultural exchange. Lily’s impact extends beyond boundaries, inspiring peers and communities alike.
Meet Marilee Shepard: 2024 Featured Artist
As you’ve already learned about our remarkable 2024 Women of Distinction and Young Woman of Tomorrow Honorees, we’re excited to introduce you to another individual we’ll be celebrating: our 2024 featured Artist, Marilee Shepard. Each year, we select a local artist to create a special piece of art awarded to each honoree at the luncheon.
The act of creating something out of nothing is a joyous endeavor for Marilee. She sees potential in color, shape, shadow and material – and feels the vibrancy of a piece is made up of many different elements just waiting for exploration. Whether it’s in painting, collage, woodworking or sewing, Marilee constantly strives to create a new piece that’s in itself – her reward. In her commissioned work with designers and their clients, Marilee allows their imaginations to direct her creative work. It becomes a personal challenge to create in their visions.
Her passion, creativity, and commitment to her craft serve as an inspiration to us all, and we are honored to showcase her work as part of this special event.
Want to be a part of next year’s celebration?
Learn more about the Women of Distinction luncheon.
