Rotary Club of Milwaukee Appoints Melissa Marschka as Executive Director

MILWAUKEE, WI – The Rotary Club of Milwaukee (RCM) Board of Directors announced Melissa Marschka will take over as the organization’s next Executive Director effective June 15, 2026. She will succeed longtime Executive Director Mary McCormick, who will retire following a dedicated tenure of 24 years of service and leadership.

Marschka was selected following a comprehensive and competitive search process led by a Board-appointed search committee. The committee reviewed a wide-range of high-quality applicants and conducted multiple rounds of interviews before unanimously recommending Marschka to the Board.

“Melissa distinguished herself at every stage of the process,” said Kent Lovern, current president of RCM. “She brings a thoughtful leadership style and the strategic vision necessary to guide the Rotary Club of Milwaukee into its next chapter. Her ability to build strong partnerships and foster meaningful member engagement will ensure we maintain our gold standard while positioning the organization for continued growth and improvement.”

Marschka brings more than five years of direct experience with RCM, most recently serving as associate executive director. She previously held the role of scholarship program coordinator, where she strengthened program operations and enhanced member engagement. Her broader professional background includes leadership positions in business development and philanthropy, including director of business development for an 80-attorney regional law firm and director of leadership giving for the United Way of Lancaster County.

In addition to her professional experience, Marschka is an active community leader. She currently serves as president elect of the Shorewood Foundation, is a board member of the North Point Lighthouse Friends and participates in the Emerging Women Leaders program through TEMPO. She holds a Master of Business Administration from Penn State University.

Departing Executive Director Mary McCormick expressed confidence in the transition and in Marschka’s leadership.

“Melissa understands this organization from the ground up,” Mary McCormick said. “She has demonstrated steady leadership, creative problem-solving and a commitment to modernizing systems while honoring our traditions. Her ability to navigate complexity with both confidence and humility makes her exceptionally well prepared to lead the Rotary Club of Milwaukee forward.”

Mary McCormick will work closely with Marschka and the Board to ensure a smooth and seamless leadership transition in the coming months.

The Board of Directors expressed deep gratitude for Mary McCormick’s years of service and looks forward to celebrating her legacy while embracing this next chapter under Marschka’s leadership.

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.