Girls on the Run Southeastern Wisconsin’s Sneaker Soiree a Resounding Success, Announces First Alumni Scholarship Recipient

MILWAUKEE, WI – Girls on the Run of Southeastern Wisconsin celebrated an unforgettable evening at its annual Sneaker Soiree gala, presented by Baird, on Friday, February 28th, 2025. With a vibrant Mardi Gras theme, the event brought together over 340 guests in attendance to help the organization raise $226,000 that will aid in financial assistance for young girls in 3rd to 8th grade to participate in the empowerment program.

Held at the Pfister Hotel, the event featured an inspiring program, live jazz entertainment, silent and live auctions and emceed by Natalie Hayden of the ExPosed Podcast, who brought energy and enthusiasm to the celebration. Event co-chairs Emily Phillips of Baird and Frank Cumberbatch of Bader Philanthropies shared powerful stories of their experience volunteering and supporting Girls on the Run, highlighting the organization’s transformative role in building confidence and leadership skills in young girls.

One of the evening’s special moments was the announcement of the inaugural recipient of the Brenda Quick Alumni Scholarship – Lyrique, a junior from Dr. Howard Fuller Collegiate Academy in Milwaukee. This scholarship, created in memory of one of the founding Girls on the Run supporters Brenda Quick, recognizes an outstanding alumna who exemplifies leadership, resilience and commitment to making a difference in her community. Lyrique is ranked #1 in her class and has already started her college journey completing courses at MATC, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD).

“Brenda was a passionate advocate for Girls on the Run, and we are honored to continue her legacy by investing in the next generation of strong, confident young women,” said Tina Jones, Executive Director for Girls on the Run Southeastern Wisconsin. “Lyrique’s journey is a testament to the power of our program, and we are so proud to support her future aspirations.”

Another highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Community Partner Energy Award to F.E.A.R (Forget Everything and Run) for their outstanding commitment and passion to creating an inclusive running community. Their work in breaking down barriers and fostering a welcoming environment for all runners aligns with the mission of Girls on the Run, making them a deserving recipient of this recognition.

Girls on the Run Southeastern Wisconsin extends a heartfelt thank you to all sponsors, donors and volunteers who made the Sneaker Soiree a success, including Presenting Sponsor – Baird, Premier Parade Sponsors – Palermo’s and Bader Philanthropies, and table sponsors Falk Ruvin Gallagher, Marcus Hotels & Resorts, Brewers Community Foundation, Milwaukee Public Schools, M3 Insurance, Saz’s Hospitality Group, GFM-CenterTable, Anguilla Engineering, Milwaukee Bucks, Foley, and Greater Milwaukee Foundation. Their support ensures that more girls across Southeastern Wisconsin can experience the transformative impact of Girls on the Run.

For more information about Girls on the Run and learn about the program and upcoming Celebratory 5K, please visit www.girlsontherunsoutheasternwi.org or call 414.367.8171.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.