Two leaders connected to Northeast Wisconsin Technical College have been recognized on the statewide stage by the Wisconsin Technical College District Boards Association for their outstanding service, leadership, and impact.
Christine Walters, NWTC a 2007 graduate of NWTC’s Nursing–Associate Degree program, received the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award, honoring one graduate across Wisconsin’s technical colleges each year whose professional achievements, community involvement, and lifelong commitment to learning exemplify the mission of technical education.
Carla Hedtke, who recently retired after 30 years of service on the NWTC Board of Trustees, received the 2025 Longstanding Board Member, in recognition of her leadership and decades of advocacy for students and technical education.
“I’m incredibly honored to receive this recognition,” said Christine Walters. “Being part of the statewide celebration and awards ceremony left me feeling both proud and humbled – proud of where I started at NWTC and humbled by the amazing work happening across Wisconsin to help students succeed. It affirms how important this work is, and how proud I am to be part of the Wisconsin technical college family.”
The Distinguished Alumni Award is the highest individual honor presented by the association. Nominees are evaluated based on five criteria: the role of technical college education in their success, career accomplishments, community involvement, support of the technical college system, and commitment to lifelong learning.
“Carla and Christine embody what technical education is all about – transforming opportunity into leadership, and service into community impact,” said Dr. Kristen Raney, NWTC President. “Their commitment to education and to others reflects the best of NWTC and the Wisconsin Technical College System. We’re incredibly proud to see their contributions recognized at the state level — and grateful for the difference they continue to make in our college and communities”
The Board Member of the Year Award recognizes individuals who provide exemplary service and governance within Wisconsin’s technical college districts, supporting student success, industry partnerships, and educational access.
Both awards were presented this fall at the Wisconsin Technical College District Boards Association Fall Meeting, where statewide leaders gathered to celebrate excellence across Wisconsin’s technical college system.
Read Christine Walter's journey from NWTC graduate to Distinguished Alumni Award recipient.
Learn about Carla Hedtke's 30 years of service on NWTC Board of Trustees.
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About the Wisconsin Technical College District Boards Association
The Wisconsin Technical College District Boards Association provides education, support, and advocacy for Wisconsin’s 16 technical college district boards and their members. The association recognizes outstanding alumni and board members annually for their contributions to technical education, workforce development, and community impact.
