Wisconsin LGBT Chamber Announces 2024 Business Award Winners

Milwaukee, WI — The Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce the recipients of the 2024 Business Awards, recognizing outstanding businesses, leaders, and advocates who have gone above and beyond in advancing diversity, inclusion, and equality in Wisconsin's business community. This year, the Chamber received a record number of nominations, showcasing an exceptional pool of candidates. After thorough consideration, we are proud to present a list of honorees who personify the values of leadership, innovation, and inclusivity.

“Our 2024 award winners are truly setting the standard for what it means to champion diversity in business,” said Jason Rae, President & CEO of the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce. “Each of these winners has demonstrated a deep commitment to fostering inclusive workplaces, creating opportunities for underrepresented communities, and advocating for a more equitable business landscape in Wisconsin and beyond. We are so proud of all they have accomplished.”

The 2024 award winners are as follows:

• Corporate Partner of the Year: WPS, a health solutions company
  WPS Health is being recognized for its exemplary commitment to creating an inclusive workplace, promoting LGBTQ+ equality, and integrating diversity into their corporate culture. As a long-standing advocate for equity, WPS has shown exceptional leadership in implementing initiatives that support diverse employees and communities.
• LGBTQ Business of the Year: Pawstar, Inc.
  Pawstar, Inc. has been honored for its dedication to creating a welcoming environment for all customers while celebrating LGBTQ+ identities through their creative, inclusive products. As an LGBTQ-owned business and leader in their industry, Pawstar has made significant contributions to the business community, showcasing that success can thrive alongside advocacy for diversity.
• Allied Business of the Year: Confluence Graphics
  Confluence Graphics is recognized for its ongoing efforts to champion diversity and inclusion as an ally. Their unwavering support of LGBTQ+ causes and commitment to fostering an inclusive Wisconsin demonstrate how businesses can be powerful allies in the fight for equality.
• Nonprofit Business of the Year: Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD)
  MIAD has been awarded for its commitment to supporting and uplifting the LGBTQ+ community through educational initiatives, inclusive policies, and advocacy. MIAD continues to empower its students and the community by ensuring that diversity and inclusion are at the forefront of its mission.
• Business Resource Group of the Year: Pride@Enerpac
  Pride@Enerpac has been recognized for its dedication to promoting inclusivity within their company and beyond. Through innovative programming and advocacy efforts, this resource group has made a meaningful impact on the lives of LGBTQ+ employees and the community.
• John Ross Pruess Business Leader of the Year: Cory Highshaw
  Cory Highshaw has been recognized for his exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing the LGBTQ+ community in the business world. As a trailblazer in the community, Cory continues to be a driving force for change, inspiring future generations of LGBTQ+ business leaders.
• Advocates of the Year: Rae & Gina Senarighi
  Rae & Gina Senarighi are being honored for their outstanding advocacy efforts and tireless dedication to creating a more inclusive community for all. Through their work, they have consistently fought for equality and provided a voice for those who need it most.

“We could not be more excited to celebrate this year’s winners, each of whom exemplifies what it means to be a leader in diversity and inclusion,” added Rae. “Their work has left a lasting impact on Wisconsin’s business community, and we look forward to continuing to support them as they grow and thrive.”

The Wisconsin LGBT Chamber will formally honor the 2024 Business Award recipients at the Business Awards & Showcase, presented by BMO, on October 23, 2024, at the Hilton Milwaukee City Center. Attendees will have the opportunity to celebrate these incredible winners and network with other business leaders who are committed to making Wisconsin a more inclusive place to work and live.