WEDA Professional Awards

In 1985, WEDA established a Professional Awards program with the purpose of recognizing exceptional contributions to the economic vitality of Wisconsin.  The award categories and nomination schedule are as follows:

Professional Award Applications (Dates nominations are to be accepted):

• Organizational Excellence Award (Nominations are closed – Opens in November 2019)
• Young Professional Application (Nominations are closed – Opens in November 2019)
• Frederick C. Pearce Award – Frederick C. Pearce Nomination Form – 2019

These awards are presented at the Governor’s Conference on Economic Development.  These awards are an excellent opportunity to recognize accomplishments of individuals and organizations that are making significant contributions to the field of economic development at the local, regional or state level.  If you have any questions or would like to submit an nomination, please contact WEDA staff at weda@weda.org

John Stibal Receives 2019 Frederick C. Pearce Award for Exceptional Work in Economic Development

The Wisconsin Economic Development Association (WEDA) recognized City of West Allis Development Director John Stibal as the 2019 Frederick C. Pearce Award winner at the organization’s Governor’s Conference on Economic Development, held Feb. 6-8 in Milwaukee. The prominent award, given every other year, was established in 1985 to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of economic development.

“It is an honor to be recognized by the Wisconsin Economic Development Association, and I am humbled to receive an award that represents excellence in economic development,” said Stibal. “I was fortunate to work with very talented people throughout my career, and I quickly found that when you broaden the economic development team, the virtually impossible becomes a reality. And with tenacity and focus, surprising results can be achieved.”

Stibal has successfully led the West Allis Department of Development for nearly 30 years, utilizing his skills as a collaborator, negotiator, and community promoter to retain and attract key businesses, secure new projects, and redevelop blighted properties. Over the last five years alone, he has attracted more than $214 million in private investment on behalf West Allis. During his career, Stibal has also been at the forefront of deploying new market tax credits to redevelopment projects that improve distressed neighborhoods and create job opportunities. While Stibal has an extensive list of career accomplishments, he remains committed to advancing economic development in Wisconsin.

“WEDA is excited to recognize John for his extraordinary leadership in the field of economic development and his commitment to creating significant opportunities for growth and prosperity for Wisconsin citizens,” said WEDA Executive Director Brian Doudna. “The impact of his lifetime work can easily be seen not only in West Allis, but throughout southeastern Wisconsin and across the state.”

Past Winners By Category: