IN 1975
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PIONEERING WOMEN'S LEADERSHIP
In the mid-1970s, Milwaukee's professional world was a challenging terrain for women. Despite their talents and capabilities, women were systematically excluded from power structures and leadership roles. On February 6, 1975, four remarkable women—Patricia Gerczak Lunde, Donna Dollase, Mary Frymark, and Suzanne Sheedy—decided to challenge this systemic barrier by establishing the TEMPO as a Professional Women's Club.
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These visionary founders shared a revolutionary mission: to create a society where women would have an equal place in leadership, policy, and decision-making processes. What began as a small gathering of 14 professional women quickly became a powerful platform for change. Their first charter luncheon on March 6, 1975, marked the beginning of a transformative journey. Meeting twice monthly at the Milwaukee Athletic Club, these women paid just $4 for lunch and invested $30 in annual membership dues—a small price for the enormous potential of collective action.
Throughout its first decade, TEMPO evolved from a local women's professional club into a significant catalyst for women's leadership development. The organization focused on three core competencies: leadership development, mentorship, and professional networking. As the business landscape changed, TEMPO adapted, consistently breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for women professionals.
By 1978, the organization had grown significantly, increasing membership dues to $50 and expanding its networking and professional development programs. The founding members believed that collective support and mutual empowerment could dismantle professional barriers. Their vision extended far beyond individual success, targeting systemic change and creating unprecedented opportunities for future generations of women leaders.
The original charter members—including Isabel Lillie, Marjorie Mattern, Elise Alcorn, and many others—represented a diverse group of professionals committed to supporting and elevating women in the workplace. Each member brought unique skills, experiences, and determination to the organization, creating a powerful network of support and inspiration.
TEMPO's legacy is rooted in its unwavering commitment to women's professional advancement. The organization provided a critical platform for networking, skill development, and mutual support during a time when such opportunities were scarce. By challenging the status quo and creating a supportive community, these women demonstrated the transformative power of collective action.
As TEMPO approached 1985, it had become an integral part of Milwaukee's professional ecosystem. The organization had successfully created a space where women could connect, learn, grow, and lead. From its humble beginnings with a small group of determined women to a robust professional network, TEMPO embodied the spirit of progress, collaboration, and empowerment.