The Fond du Lac Area Women’s Fund is proud to announce that Holly Brenner, Senior Vice President of Strategic Development and Marketing at C.D. Smith Construction, will be honored as the 2025 Woman of Achievement at the annual Power of the Purse Luncheon. This prestigious event will take place on Wednesday, April 23rd, at the Radisson Hotel and Conference Center.
Brenner’s journey is one of passion, leadership, and a deep commitment to making a difference. Her passion for community engagement was instilled in her at a young age by parents who believed in rolling up their sleeves to support local organizations. She carried this mindset into her professional and civic endeavors, playing a pivotal role in forming Envision Greater Fond du Lac, the merger of the Association of Commerce and the Fond du Lac Economic Development Corporation. As the inaugural Chair of the Board, she helped guide the organization’s mission and mentored its first female President/CEO. Brenner firmly believes, “To be successful in fulfilling the vision that we collectively created, we all need to pitch in and help from where we are.”
Brenner’s dedication goes beyond her professional role. She actively mentors women in leadership and encourages them to speak up, take risks, and embrace challenges. “Leadership isn’t a title; it’s a set of behaviors and actions, and regardless of what your title is, you can lead from where you are,” she says.
Known for her selflessness, energy, enthusiasm, and kindness, Brenner has dedicated countless hours to organizations that uplift the community. She has served in volunteer roles with numerous civic and nonprofit groups, including the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Foundation, The New North Board of Directors, Marian University Board of Trustees, Fond du Lac Area Boys and Girls Club Board, Fond du Lac Family YMCA Board, Service League of Fond du Lac, Noon Rotary, Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts. Her guiding philosophy is simple yet powerful: “Sometimes being selfless with your time and talent is the best thing you can do for yourself and others.”
“Holly Brenner exemplifies what it means to be a leader, mentor, and advocate for women and girls in our community,” shared Jolene Schatzinger, Executive Director of the Fond du Lac Area Women’s Fund. “Her unwavering dedication to service, her ability to inspire those around her, and her commitment to creating opportunities for others make her truly deserving of this recognition. Holly’s impact is felt not just in her professional achievements but in the lives she uplifts every day. We are honored to celebrate her as our 2025 Woman of Achievement.”
Brenner’s leadership at C.D. Smith Construction, a longtime supporter of the Fond du Lac Area Women’s Fund, further reflects her dedication to strengthening the community. Through both her professional and personal efforts, she continues to champion initiatives that empower women and foster local development.
The Power of the Purse Luncheon serves as a platform to honor local changemakers like Brenner while also raising vital funds to support initiatives empowering women and girls in the Fond du Lac area. Since its inception in 2004, the Women’s Fund has awarded over $330,000 in grants to local 501(c)3 organizations aligned with its mission.
