Introducing your 2025-2026 Presidential Candidate
By Amy Pumper, Chairman of the Board
Shirley Viesselman of the Hutchinson Women of Today is pleased to announce her candidacy for the office of State President of the Minnesota Women of Today.
Shirley has been very active in Women of Today since joining the Hutchinson chapter as a founding member in 2016. She has held the following local offices: chapter president, state delegate, membership vice president, programming vice president and chairman of the board/parliamentarian. On the district level, she has been secretary and served as District 5 Director. Her leadership has taken her into roles on the state level as Living & Learning SPM, Programming Vice President, Administrative Vice President and this year as Chapter Management Vice President.
An exceptional member of Women of Today and a supporter of local chapters and members, Shirley has been actively working with chapters to have 15 or more members and chapters that need a little extra TLC with her Sparkle boxes, phone calls and travel. Her excitement and dedication to Women of Today for what it does for members, the friendships, and opportunities available shines through in all she does.
Shirley’s belief statement about this organization in part shares “Becoming a member of the Minnesota Women of Today has been a very enriching and life changing experience. Though I’ve been a member and participant in several organizations over the years, nothing has helped me grow more than this organization. I am amazed at myself. The last couple years I have met so many wonderful people. It has been fun to visit chapters and districts; help with issues and encourage trying new things. There is nothing better than helping others and putting a smile on someone’s face.”
WT and Beyond
Shirley is part of the Hutchinson Women of Today. She has held positions as firm administrator in an accounting office which included bookkeeping, income tax reporting, payroll taxes and more. After working in bookkeeping for a few businesses, she became an accounts receivable specialist in a finance department. She then went to work at 3-M for 12 years starting in production and ended up in the training department. She was responsible for all parts of welcoming new employees and supporting them. Shirley is married to Kane, who is extremely supportive of her volunteerism. She has two bonus sons, Cole who lives in Colorado and Casey who lives in Missouri. She enjoys a good cup of coffee, tea, paper crafting and a good book. Shirley and Kane love to travel and explore. They spend the first couple of weeks in April in Gold Canyon, Arizona. Last year they purchased E-bikes and have had fun exploring trails in Minnesota and Door County, WI.
Chapter Support Letter
By Hutchinson Area Women of Today
Ladies and gentlemen of the Minnesota Women of Today Selection Committee,
My name is Amy E. Solinger, and I have the privilege of serving as the President of the Hutchinson Area Women of Today Chapter for the 2024/2025 term. It is with great enthusiasm and pride that I stand before you today to express our unwavering support for Shirley Viesselman as a candidate for the esteemed position of President of the Minnesota Women of Today. Though I have known Shirley for just a year, the impact she has made within our organization has been nothing short of remarkable. From our very first meeting, it was evident that Shirley possesses an extraordinary passion for our mission and values. Her vibrant spirit and considerable wisdom have truly inspired those around her, leaving a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her. During this past year, Shirley has achieved numerous accolades that reflect her dedication and hard work. Among these honors, she was awarded the coveted Key Woman Award, a distinction granted to only a select few within our organization. This recognition is a testament to her outstanding contributions and commitment to our community. Shirley’s presence within the Hutchinson Area Women of Today is characterized by her unwavering support for others, her penchant for random acts of kindness, and her infectious enthusiasm that encourages us all to “stay positive and sparkle.” She embodies the essence of our organization and the values we hold dear. As a founding member of our chapter, Shirley played a pivotal role in revitalizing our chapter by helping recruit 13 new members last year, breathing new life into a chapter that was on the verge of closing. Her leadership and tenacity have been instrumental in fostering an inclusive and thriving environments for all. On a personal note, Shirley has been an invaluable mentor to me during my presidency, guiding me through challenges and teaching me the intricacies of our organization. I am truly grateful for her support and wisdom. In conclusion, the Hutchinson Area Women of Today stand united in our belief that Shirley Viesselman would be an exceptional addition to the Minnesota Women of Today’s leadership team. We wholeheartedly endorse her candidacy, confident that she will honor the position with grace, integrity, and passion. Should you require any further information regarding our recommendation, please do not hesitate to reach out. I am more than happy to provide additional insights to support Shirley’s candidacy. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Amy E. Solinger HAWT Chapter President 2024/2025
Shirley’s Prospective Staff
Administrative VP – Michelle Cloutier, Burnsville
Membership VP – Andrea Schue, Roseau
Chapter Management VP – Connie Fink, Monticello
Marketing VP – Maggie Holmberg, St. Cloud
Programming VP – Sue Sangren, Fairmont
Financial VP – To be announced
Extensions Director – Glorie Balfanz, Monticello
Secretary – Jeny Ohr, Coon Rapids
Parliamentarian – Liz Weigel, Lake of the Woods Presidential Assistant – Deb Froemming, Hutchinson Area