The WICT Network: Midwest is thrilled to present the nominees for the 2025Spirit of the Midwest Awards. This distinguished recognition celebrates individuals who have made remarkable contributions in the industry. They have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation and commitment to their fields. They are emerging leaders who inspire others with their vision for the future, brilliant technologists who push the boundaries of what’s possible, and dedicated advocates and mentors who support and uplift those around them.
The Spirit of the Midwest Awards is a testament to the power of community and the impact of recognizing excellence. Please join us September 24, in St. Louis, Missouri to celebrate the accomplishments of these amazing chapter members and advocates.
This award recognizes an individual who has been an exemplary advocate for The WICT Network: Midwest. They’ve done this through the mentorship program, as a volunteer or by being a champion for women in the industry. The Advocate should show dedication to the Midwest Chapter and inspire others in the community.
Eligibility
• Must exhibit the Touchstones of Leadership – Know Yourself, Communicate, Listen, Be a Catalyst, Be Fearless, and Inspire.
• Recipient will have been in the industry for at least three years.
Zachary Ball
Zachary Ball
Senior Business Development Manager, Innova Solutions
Nominated by: Kate Moore & Stacy Bueneman Thakkar
“Zach’s commitment extends beyond the professional realm, as evidenced by his active involvement with the WICT Midwest Chapter. He has consistently attended all events, demonstrating his dedication to supporting the organization’s mission and advocating for women’s progress within the industry. His efforts have not only strengthened his personal network but have also contributed significantly to advancing the chapter’s goals, making him an exemplary figure in championing equality and empowerment.”
Stacy Bueneman Thakkar
Stacy Bueneman Thakkar
Senior Manager, ERP Data & Analytics, Charter Communications
Nominated by: Zachary Ball
“Stacy is an advocate, constantly looking out for the organization, and more importantly the people that make the organization. Above all, she cares. Stacy and Kate are the most present members I have noticed in WICT. Constantly addressing feedback, bettering the org, and making it a place that others want to be at.”
Bob Bartelt
Bob Bartelt
Vice President of Customer Experience, Midco
Nominated by: Noelle Tieszen
“I believe Bob Bartelt has earned the Advocate of the Year award because he embodies what it means to be a true leader and a force for good. His leadership is rooted in authenticity, empathy, and a deep commitment to creating inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive. Bob’s impact is visible in the way he mentors emerging talent, advocates for equitable opportunities, and consistently elevates the voices of those around him. He leads with courage, never hesitating to challenge the status quo if it means building a better, more inclusive future.”
Joe Ryan
Joe Ryan
Conduit Sales Director, Viaflex
Nominated by: Anna Jankord
“Joe has earned this award because he lives out the WICT Touchstones of Leadership and embodies the values we hold at Viaflex—integrity, collaboration, creativity, and accountability. He is a natural leader who creates an environment of trust, learning, and growth within his team and across the organization. Joe is not only results-driven but people-focused—he builds strong relationships, mentors future talent, and genuinely cares about those around him. ”
Woman to Watch
Woman to Watch Nominees
This award recognizes an industry woman, considered a newcomer to the industry, who has become accomplished in both her job and in her working knowledge of the media, technology and entertainment industry.
Eligibility
• Must exhibit the Touchstones of Leadership – Know Yourself, Communicate, Listen, Be a Catalyst, Be Fearless, and Inspire.
• May be in either an individual contributor or leadership position.
And meet one of the following:
• Recipient will have been in the industry for less than five years.
-OR-
• Changed career paths/business fields within the past two years (e.g. from marketing to operations).
Shelbi Willenborg
Shelbi Willenborg
Director of Sales Marketing, American Fiber Network
Nominated by: Morgan Brumleve
“Shelbi has not only earned this award — she embodies everything it represents. In an industry that’s constantly evolving, she leads with clarity, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to connecting people through meaningful communication and cutting-edge technology. She has elevated our company’s presence in the telecom space, expanded access to high-speed internet in our community, and led initiatives that empower both customers and co-workers. ”
Jaimee Chapman
Jaimee Chapman
Software Engineer, Charter Communications
Nominated by: Joelle Giererl
“Jaimee left a career in a completely different field a few years ago and trained in software development. After being hired at Charter, it did not take long for her to become an expert in her field, training incoming new software developers. Jaimee truly owns her job and regularly shares knowledge with her teammates while also documenting that knowledge for their future reference. Jaimee takes on every new challenge with gusto and perseverance. ”
Sahithi Aluri
Sahithi Aluri
Principal Database Administrator
Nominated by: Stacy Renfrow
“Sahithi impresses me with her knowledge of our database infrastructure and support tools at Charter. She promotes growth by taking the time to educate and help others understand this space. She collaborates with teams to get the entire picture of requests/issues/processes. She displays confidence with executive leadership when speaking to her craft. She has strategic vision to know where her departments needs to head to drive company initiatives. Sahithi is an inspiration and a role model for technology leaders to aspire to.”
Shannon Mollet
Shannon Mollet
Web Strategist, Midco
Nominated by: Tara Mueller
“Shannon is undeniably a woman to watch in the media, technology, and entertainment industry. She has consistently demonstrated excellence in execution, courage in leadership and vision for the future, setting a high bar for what transformative impact looks like. Her work doesn’t just meet expectations—it redefines them. Shannon’s ability to lead with authenticity, drive innovation, and champion inclusive digital experiences has left an indelible mark on both the industry and the people who have the privilege of working with her.”
Hanna Bartels
Hanna Bartels
Sr. Community Relations Coordinator, Midco
Nominated by: Amber Schwiesow
“Hanna has built her entire career at Midco, and it’s been incredible to watch her growth. She started as an admin, and through hard work, dedication, and a clear passion for the business, she’s earned two well-deserved promotions. Hanna is the kind of person who doesn’t just do her job, she shows up 110%. I know that when Hanna is on a project, it is going to be flawless. She’s thoughtful, reliable, and always looking for ways to improve processes and support our team. He attitude is awe inspiring.”
Main Slide
Rising Leader Nominees
This award recognizes an industry woman who has demonstrated her own personal leadership style. She shows tremendous potential in her career and champions The WICT Network’s mission to develop women leaders who transform the industry.
Eligibility
• Must exhibit the Touchstones of Leadership – Know Yourself, Communicate, Listen, Be a Catalyst, Be Fearless, and Inspire.
• Recipient will have been in the industry for two years or more.
• Must have at least 2 years people leader experience, but does not need to currently be a people leader.
Shelbi Willenborg
Shelbi Willenborg
Director of Sales Marketing, American Fiber Network
Nominated by: Griffin Jackman, Cole Hussong
“Shelbi exhibits the WICT Touchstones through her confident, purpose-driven leadership as Director of Marketing & Sales. She embraces the growth within our company, she communicates on a high level to her team members within the office and shes driven by success. She is fearless in her marketing role and is always up for a challenge. She builds relationships not only within the company but with all of our customers and future customers as well.”
Stacy Bueneman Thakkar
Stacy Bueneman Thakkar
Senior Manager, ERP Data & Analytics, Charter Communications
Nominated by: Zachary Ball
“Stacy is an advocate, constantly looking out for the organization, and more importantly the people that make the organization. Above all, she cares. Stacy is already a wonderful leader but is making leaps and bounds to continue to perfect her craft.”
Kate Moore
Kate Moore
Senior Manager, Engineering, Charter Communications
Nominated by: Brooke Meine
“Kate Moore exemplifies fearless, inspiring leadership through her ability to guide teams through change, advocate fiercely for others, and lead with empathy and impact. Even with a full plate, she stepped up as President of WICT this year and has been absolutely killing it—motivating not just her teams, but also inspiring me personally to rise to the occasion. She lifts others while delivering results, making her more than deserving of this award.”
Main Slide
Woman in Technology Nominees
This award recognizes an industry woman serving in a technical position who has contributed significantly to her organization as well as in the media, technology and entertainment industry. In addition to her technical expertise, she is a valued team member who is committed to supporting and motivating others.
Eligibility
• Recipient will have been in the industry for at least five years.
• Holds a management/leadership position within her organization.
• Must exhibit the Touchstones of Leadership – Know Yourself, Communicate, Listen, Be a Catalyst, Be Fearless, and Inspire.
Stefanie Fenwick
Stefanie Fenwick
Senior Product Owner, World Wide Technology
Nominated by: Kate Moore
“Stefanie Fenwick’s leadership, vast technical experience, and commitment to supporting and motivating others makes her the perfect candidate for the Woman in Technology award in 2025. Not only has she been a member of The WICT Network since 2017, but she has also been a board member of the Midwest’s Chapter serving as the Finance Chair (2018-2019) and Director of Finance (2020-2025).”
Stacy Bueneman Thakkar
Stacy Bueneman Thakkar
Senior Manager, ERP Data & Analytics, Charter Communications
Nominated by: Zachary Ball
“Stacy is an advocate, constantly looking out for the organization, and more importantly the people that make the organization. Above all, she cares. Stacy earned woman in technology because she blends tech with what it is designed for, advancing people.”
Lakshmi Papineni
Lakshmi Papineni
Information Technology Manager, Charter Communications
Nominated by: Shahrukh Parvez
“Lakshmi Papineni leads with confidence, communicates clearly, and listens with empathy. They inspire others by driving change, taking bold steps, and leading by example. I believe the nominee has earned this award because of their outstanding leadership, dedication, and consistent impact. They go above and beyond in driving results, supporting others, and embodying the core values of excellence, innovation, and inclusion.”
Anna Knobeloch
Anna Knobeloch
Technical Program Manager, Charter Communications
Nominated by: Lisa Neuwirth
“Anna has become fully immersed in the industry, finds purpose in learning and engaged in improving whatever is placed before her. She has continued to evolve and develop in her various years and roles in the industry. She not only engages in new learnings, but also shares her knowledge and expertise to make the industry, processes and operations better. She consistently gives more than 100% and aims to always hit the target.”
Melanie Sage
Melanie Sage
Account Manager, GDT
Nominated by: Amber Schwiesow
“In a tech industry that’s still largely male-dominated, Melanie stands out. She brings deep expertise, confidence, and a level of preparation that’s unmatched. I remember when she decided to dive into cybersecurity, she didn’t just skim the surface; she studied it inside and out, asked the right questions, and made sure she could speak with authority. That kind of drive is rare.”
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Spirit of the Midwest Award Nominees
This award recognizes an industry woman who has made significant contributions to the media, technology and entertainment industry throughout her career, serves as a mentor and role model for others, exhibits leadership qualities that have made a difference in her organization, is a risk taker and a groundbreaker, and inspires others. This woman is highly regarded by her peers and teammates for career accomplishments and quality of work-life balance.
Eligibility
• Must exhibit the Touchstones of Leadership – Know Yourself, Communicate, Listen, Be a Catalyst, Be Fearless, and Inspire.
• Recipient will have been in the media, technology and entertainment industry for at least seven years.
• Holds a management/leadership position within her organization.
Patti Hawkey
Patti Hawkey
Director of Human Resources, Midco
Nominated by: Murphy Thiner & Steve Mattern
“Patti Hawkey’s dedication and extraordinary leadership have left an indelible mark not only on Midco but on the broader landscape. Her ability to inspire, connect, and champion those around her embodies the very spirit of the Midwest and the ideals of the WICT Touchstones. Patti’s journey is a testament to what is possible when purpose, passion, and integrity unite. For these reasons and more, she is an outstanding nominee for the Spirit of the Midwest Award.”
Stacy Bueneman Thakkar
Stacy Bueneman Thakkar
Senior Manager, ERP Data & Analytics, Charter Communications
Nominated by: Kate Moore & Zachary Ball
“Stacy Bueneman Thakkar exudes confidence in everything she does, consistently demonstrating the WICT Touchstones of leadership. Always an advocate for work-life balance, she knows herself and leads by example. Her strong communication and listening skills are evident through her engagements with others – both personally and professionally. ”
