Celebrating Mary Karnitz: Ozaukee Impact Award Volunteer of the Year

We are thrilled to share that Mary Karnitz (second from right in photo above), Vice President and Branch Manager of our Grafton office, has been honored as the Ozaukee Impact Award Volunteer of the Year.

A true pillar of the Grafton community, Mary has spent more than a decade embodying the spirit of giving, service, and leadership. Her impact reaches across education, philanthropy, business, and family support programs — always with the goal of making Ozaukee County a stronger, more connected place to live and work.

Mary has served as both President and Past President of the Grafton Chamber of Commerce, where she continues to shape initiatives that support local businesses, foster community connections, and celebrate the people who make Grafton thrive. She also helped launch 100+ Women Who Care Ozaukee County, a transformative giving circle that has directed more than $300,000 to local nonprofits since 2015, empowering women to be changemakers in their own backyard. Her dedication extends to health and family support through her board work and volunteerism with Ozaukee Family Services, uplifting families and children navigating grief and hardship. 

Mary is also a passionate advocate for youth. She brings financial education to students across Grafton elementary, middle, and high schools through the Teach Kids to Save initiative. She also volunteers with Junior Achievement programs and the Reality Store at John Long Middle School, helping dozens of students gain essential life skills in saving, budgeting, and financial literacy.

Beyond her leadership roles, Mary is a familiar face at community traditions such as the Grafton Tree Lighting, Ladies Night Out, and the Chamber’s annual golf outings, where she helps build pride, connection, and celebration.

“Mary leads with both passion and purpose,” said Amy Kauper, Vice President of Retail Banking at Port Washington State Bank. “Her dedication to serving others — whether it’s mentoring students, supporting local nonprofits, or strengthening our business community — reflects the very best of what it means to be a community banker. We are so proud to see her recognized with this award.”

Mary’s heart for service has created lasting ripples across Ozaukee County, and this award is a well-deserved recognition of her commitment.

Congratulations, Mary, on being named the Ozaukee Impact Award Volunteer of the Year! Your energy, compassion, and leadership continue to inspire all of us. 

Pictured above, Tarrah Beyer, VP/Director of Marketing, Joan Woldt, SVP/COO, Amy Kauper, VP/Director of Retail Banking, Mary Karnitz, VP/Branch Manager and Cindy Nierode, CFO, all with Port Washington State Bank.