Former Oconomowoc Chamber of Commerce Director Jalane Sauer Returns to Lead Organization Two Decades Later
July 11, 2024

Lake Country Tribune

Jalane Sauer, former executive director of the Oconomowoc Area Chamber of Commerce from 1998 to 2003, will return to lead the organization following Cherie Sonsalla’s departure.

Sauer, who recently worked as the foundation development manager at Shorehaven, has extensive community involvement, including serving on the Board of Directors of Moonlit Movies for 18 years and coordinating Oconomowoc Kids’ Fest for 26 years, according to the Oconomowoc Enterprise.

Jeff McCarthy, president of the chamber’s Board of Directors, celebrated Sauer’s return to lead the chamber.

“Jalane is exactly the type of person we were looking for,” McCarthy told the Enterprise, “She is passionate about the growth and vibrancy of Oconomowoc and is well connected within the community. I know she’ll do an excellent job of leading us for years to come.”

RELATED: OHS Grad and Current UW-Madison Student Crowned 2025 Fairest of the Fair

Sauer echoed McCarthy’s excitement, saying that while she wasn’t necessarily searching for a job, “after seeing the exciting things happening at the chamber, I knew I wanted to be part of it.”

Sauer is set to start her first day as the returning executive director in late July.

Meanwhile, Sara Ninmann has also been hired as the director of community events at the Oconomowoc Area Chamber of Commerce, where she will oversee new responsibilities, including Chili Fest, summer beer gardens, and Fall Fest starting in 2025.

Ninmann, previously president of the Downtown Oconomowoc Business District, will leverage her experience to manage these events, while the district will continue to run smaller events like Ladies Night Out and sidewalk sales. The chamber will also continue hosting the Summer Farmers Market, an annual golf outing, the Yellow Brick Road 5K Race, a job expo in partnership with Oconomowoc High School, and various networking and educational opportunities.

NEXT: VA Outpatient Clinic Serving Our Veterans Opens Doors in Oconomowoc

View More Sports Articles

Everything to Know About Super Bowl LIX

Everything to Know About Super Bowl LIX

The Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs are set to face off for Super Bowl LIX. The game is set to be held on Sunday, February 9th at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. It is scheduled to air at 5:30 p.m. CT on Fox. This previous Sunday, the teams slated...

Admirals to Honor Bob Uecker

Admirals to Honor Bob Uecker

The Milwaukee Admirals have announced their plans to honor the legacy of Wisconsin legend, Bob Uecker. Admirals President Jon Greenberg expressed his sadness over losing Uecker on behalf of the organization. In a statement, Greenberg said that the Admirals efforts to...

Lake Country DockHounds to Host Chili Cook Off

Lake Country DockHounds to Host Chili Cook Off

Amidst the frigid weather in Wisconsin this week, the Lake Country DockHounds have announced a chili and soup cook off on Saturday, March 15. The ticketed event will allow guests to sample various warm soups and chilis, then cast their vote for their favorite. The...

NFL Star Zack Baun Purchases Home in Brookfield

NFL Star Zack Baun Purchases Home in Brookfield

Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Zack Baun and his wife, Ali, have purchased a stunning 5,500-square-foot home in Brookfield, Wisconsin, for approximately $1 million. The luxurious four-bedroom property, previously owned by Susan G. Lewis, marks a significant purchase...