Fox Cities News

University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh alumna Jennifer Ruetten, who grew up in a farming family, was determined to forge her own path. Choosing not to follow in her parents' footsteps as farmers, she opted for higher education at UW-Oshkosh. Her decision was influenced by the opportunity to save money by commuting from her home in Van Dyne.

Ruetten pursued a degree in finance with an emphasis on entrepreneurship. This educational background paved the way for a successful career with Winnebago County and later as an entrepreneur. She co-owns Copper Hall, an event venue located at 203 Otter St., Oshkosh, alongside her husband Heath Ruetten.

Reflecting on her early aspirations, Ruetten shared that during middle and high school she considered careers in real estate or hotel management. As a first-generation college student, attending university was never in doubt despite her parents not having gone themselves. "I’m a first generation college student," she stated.

During her time at UW-Oshkosh, certain classes left a lasting impression on Ruetten. Particularly memorable was an Honors seminar where she tackled Dostoevsky's "The Brothers Karamazov." Despite its daunting length and small font size, she embraced the challenge. "If that’s what you have to do, that’s what you have to do," she recalled.

Ruetten credits her education for equipping her with skills applicable both in her role as director of Winnebago County Information Technology and as co-owner of Copper Hall and Technology Planners, LLC. "UWO led to my internship with the Winnebago County Finance department," which became instrumental in shaping her career trajectory.

Her internship experience involved working on daily financial tasks within the department while full-time staff focused on transitioning to new software. Though initially set to end before December graduation, Ruetten's adaptability extended it further into IT roles: "I reminded him that the internship was supposed to end in December."

Ruetten acknowledges how integral her business degree has been across various ventures: "My business degree helped me in all aspects of starting a business." Coursework covering areas like market research and risk analysis prepared them well when launching their businesses.

Copper Hall stands today as testament not only towards entrepreneurial spirit but also dedication nurtured through academic foundations laid years ago at UW-Oshkosh—a journey marked by determination combined with practical application learned along way underpins continued success seen today among both Jennifer & Heath Ruettens’ endeavors alike within community they call home now too—Oshkosh itself!