Future Neenah recognized the following individuals and businesses that, through partnerships, made serving as Neenah’s quality of life organization a success in 2024. These honorees have hearts for community service and a love of Neenah Area.
Future Neenah Champion of the Year Award: Megan Schleicher
Future Neenah is proud to honor Megan Schleicher as our Champion of the Year, recognizing her unwavering dedication, leadership, and generosity in serving our organization and community.
Megan currently serves as Vice President on Future Neenah’s Executive Committee, where her expertise and commitment have made a lasting impact. As a small nonprofit, we do not have an attorney on staff, but Megan’s legal acumen has been invaluable time and time again. Additionally, she has served as a crucial liaison between Future Neenah and her employer, Plexus, strengthening connections that benefit the entire community.
Her dedication goes beyond titles—she consistently puts in extra hours, attends additional meetings, and answers countless emails, all with a thoughtful and professional approach. Future Neenah Executive Director Brent Bowman attests, “Megan is a true professional who generously gives back her time and talents. She is the quiet, levelheaded presence in the sometimes nonprofit storm!”
We are incredibly grateful for Megan’s tireless efforts, strategic insight, and generosity, and we are honored to recognize her as this year’s Future Neenah Champion of the Year.
Corporate Partner of the Year Award: Simplicity Credit Union
Future Neenah is honored to recognize Simplicity Credit Union as our 2024 Corporate Partner of the Year for their outstanding commitment to community enrichment and engagement.
As a Future Neenah Community Leader Level Sponsor, Simplicity Credit Union stepped up in a big way this year, sponsoring numerous beloved events and activities, including Farm to Table, Pay It Forward, and Old Fashioned Saturday. Their generosity and dedication have helped bring these experiences to life, strengthening our vibrant downtown and fostering connections throughout Neenah.
Paige Zoelk, Neenah Branch Manager, expressed her pride in the way the Simplicity team has embraced the local community, stating: “We’re getting our voice out there that we’re here to help. You’re not just a number. Everyone here has been putting the time into this area, and I think it just shows how serious we are about trying to become a difference-maker.”
Simplicity Credit Union is more than just a business in Neenah—they are an active and engaged partner, investing in the people and places that make our community special. Future Neenah extends our sincere appreciation for their generosity and commitment to making Neenah an even better place to live, work, and play.
Downtown Business of the Year Award: Urban Market Neenah
Urban Market Neenah opened its doors in the heart of downtown less than a year ago and has quickly become a cornerstone of the ‘Downtown Unequaled’ brand. From the very beginning, they have fully embraced the community, actively participating in downtown events, hosting their own special gatherings such as Mom and Daughter Days Out and Ladies Shopping Nights, and elevating the downtown experience for all.
More than just a market, Urban Market Neenah is a must-visit downtown destination. Offering high-quality organic groceries, convenient grab-and-go foods, and a complete sit-down café experience, they have created a space that blends gourmet dining with shopping. Their café features an elevated menu with standout items such as freshly made crepes, while their retail offerings include stylish clothing, unique gifts, and more.
Beyond their storefront, Urban Market Neenah’s marketing and social media presence have strengthened the entire downtown district, helping to promote and draw visitors to the area. Their influence and engagement make them a true anchor for Neenah’s central city.
In 2024, Urban Market Neenah participated for the first time in Future Neenah’s annual Farm to Table Dinner, delighting attendees with small bites of their acclaimed chicken salad and gluten-free carrot cake. Their generosity extends far beyond this event, as they continue to give back to the community in numerous ways.
Urban Market Neenah is a shining example of the vibrant and dynamic businesses that make downtown Neenah unique. Their commitment to quality, community, and connection sets them apart as a cherished part of the city’s fabric.
Volunteer of the Year Award: Phil Langohr
From hauling countless bags of event trash to leading the charge for new initiatives, Phil Langohr has proven time and again his unwavering dedication to the Neenah community. His tireless efforts over the past several years make him the clear choice for Volunteer of the Year.
Phil’s contributions often come when they’re needed most. When event attendees have gone home, and the streets or parks need care, Phil steps in, ensuring Neenah shines. However, his standout achievement this year was spearheading Neenah’s first-ever Old Fashioned Saturday event.
Phil’s enthusiasm and determination were instrumental in the event’s success. From committee meetings and sponsor negotiations to coordinating with businesses, Phil was at the forefront, turning vision into reality. The event brought 375 guests to the heart of Neenah to celebrate Wisconsin’s iconic cocktail, creating a new tradition that engaged local hospitality businesses and the community.
“Phil is a true hero to the Future Neenah staff always being available to help with cleanup duties at our events and was a leader as we planned our first Old Fashioned Saturday event. We love having Phil as a part of our team”, added Michelle Dunning, Future Neenah Outreach & Development Coordinator.
Future Neenah is proud to recognize Phil for his hard work, leadership, and commitment to making our central city a vibrant and welcoming place. Thank you, Phil, for going above and beyond for Neenah!
Awards made by Mike and Kim Cannon and presented by Future Neenah board
Photos by Rankin Photography
Future Neenah, Inc. is a community driven non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the economic and cultural vitality of Neenah Area.