Fox Cities News

The University of Wisconsin—Oshkosh (UWO) will honor 11 alumni during the Homecoming 2025 event in October. The UW–Oshkosh Alumni Association plans to present several awards recognizing graduates for their professional achievements and contributions.

Five graduates will receive the Distinguished Alumni Award for their accomplishments in their respective fields. Laurie (Caelwaerts) Butz, president and CEO of Capital Credit Union, is one recipient. She has been recognized for her community involvement and leadership roles with various nonprofit organizations. Molly Yatso Butz, executive director of Day by Day Shelter, Inc., will also be honored for her successful management of a significant capital campaign that resulted in a new shelter facility.

Scott Ceman, owner of Ceman Law Office and former state prosecutor, is another awardee noted for his legal career. Nancy (Lien) Korom, vice president and chief nursing officer at Children’s Wisconsin, is recognized for her contributions to public health initiatives. Brad Spanbauer, UWO sustainability director, is credited with leading energy-saving initiatives at the university.

The Outstanding Young Alumni Award will go to five individuals who have shown promise within 15 years of graduation. Susan Asselin works as a program management analyst in Washington D.C., having previously served in the Peace Corps. Kimberly Krejcarek has progressed from a news writer to special projects coordinator at WLUK-TV. Anthony Miller Jr., director of community engagement and equity at Oshkosh Area School District, is also being honored.

Alondra Sanchez founded Cultura Counseling LLC focusing on BIPOC communities and mental health advocacy. Saravanan “Sud” Shanmugabaskaran co-founded Tuna Traffic marketing agency and supports local nonprofits through culinary events.

John Strous will receive the Alumni Outstanding Service Award for his nearly three decades mentoring medical laboratory scientists at UWO's medical technology program.

The awards ceremony is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 17 at the Culver Family Welcome Center with tickets priced at $40 per person. Further details can be obtained from UWO Alumni Relations.