Stella's recent honor as a Notable Woman in Banking by BizTimes Media was announced to the public on March 16th, 2026

 Stella’s influence in Ozaukee County can be felt across the business community, her profession, and the many organizations she serves. As Senior Vice President and Director of Human Resources at Port Washington State Bank, she has played a central role in shaping a workplace culture that empowers more than 130 employees to learn, grow, and thrive.

“Stella’s impact in Ozaukee County is reflected through her leadership in business, her profession, and her community,” said James Schowalter, President and CEO of Port Washington State Bank. “She shapes an engaging workplace culture, prioritizing continuous learning, well-being, and professional growth.”

A Leader in Human Resources

Stella’s dedication to elevating the HR profession extends far beyond her organization. For more than a decade, she has served on the Metro Milwaukee SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) Board of Directors, including two years as President. In these roles, she helped guide conferences, legislative initiatives, and leadership forums that strengthened HR practices and informed workforce policy across the region. Her contributions have made a meaningful difference for professionals and employers throughout Milwaukee and surrounding communities.

Championing Wellness and Community Well‑Being

Schowalter added, “Stella is committed to mental and physical well-being, both in the workplace and the broader community.”
This commitment is evident through Stella’s service with the Wellness Council of Wisconsin, where she has served as a board member since 2024. Her work supports initiatives that advance employee well‑being, with a strong emphasis on mental health—an area she has long championed.

Stella also brings compassion and support to individuals and families through her volunteer work in hospice and grief care. She has dedicated time to organizations including Aurora Health Care, VITAS Healthcare, and Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, offering comfort during some of life’s most challenging moments.

Her community involvement doesn’t end there. Stella currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Kettle Moraine YMCA, helping guide programs and resources that strengthen families and promote healthy living.

Investing in the Future Workforce

For the past three years, Stella has also been a dedicated mentor through the Ozaukee Youth Apprenticeship program. Her support for young people—whether through coaching, career guidance, or simply being a steady presence—illustrates her commitment to nurturing the next generation of professionals.

“Her leadership leaves a lasting impact on individuals, organizations, and the future workforce of Ozaukee County,” Schowalter said.

We congratulate Stella on this honor and we thank her for all that she does for the people at PWSB and in the community!