Celebrating Years of Service to Wisconsin’s FIRST Community.

As part of recent changes to the FIRST Senior Mentor program, FIRST Wisconsin is saying thank you to two individuals whose dedication, leadership, and service have helped shape our FIRST community for many years.

Jane Blau and Emma Schuff have each played important roles in supporting teams, mentors, volunteers, educators, and partners across Wisconsin. Through advocacy, relationship-building, volunteer development, outreach, and countless conversations, they have helped strengthen opportunities for students throughout our state.

As their time as FIRST Senior Mentors comes to a close, the impact of their contributions will continue to be felt across Wisconsin’s FIRST community for years to come.

A Lasting Impact

For many teams, volunteers, and educators, Jane and Emma were among the first people they met when becoming involved with FIRST. They answered questions, connected people with resources, advocated for students, supported new initiatives, and helped strengthen relationships across the state.

Their work contributed to the growth of Wisconsin’s FIRST community during a period of significant change and opportunity. Whether supporting teams directly, building partnerships, engaging elected officials, or encouraging volunteers and mentors, both have played meaningful roles in expanding opportunities for young people throughout Wisconsin.

For many years, Jane and Emma served as trusted resources for teams, volunteers, educators, and community partners across Wisconsin.

We are grateful for the time, energy, and passion they invested in helping students discover their potential through science, technology, engineering, and leadership.

Continuing Support for Teams and Volunteers

FIRST Wisconsin remains committed to supporting teams, volunteers, educators, and partners across the state.

Questions related to team support, volunteer engagement, events, and program operations can be directed to:

Jerry Krist

Operations & Logistics Manager

jerry.krist@firstinspireswi.org

Jerry will work alongside staff, volunteer leaders, committees, and program leadership teams to connect community members with the appropriate resources and support.

Thank You

Change often provides an opportunity to reflect on the people who helped build the foundation that made future growth possible.

We are deeply grateful to Jane and Emma for their years of service, leadership, and commitment to Wisconsin’s students and communities. Their contributions have helped shape the Wisconsin FIRST community we know today.

On behalf of the FIRST Wisconsin Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, teams, and alumni, thank you for everything you have done to support and strengthen FIRST in Wisconsin.

We wish you both the very best in the years ahead and hope you take pride in the lasting impact you have made on students, teams, and communities across our state. Your contributions will continue to be reflected in the strength of Wisconsin’s FIRST community for years to come.

You can keep in touch with Jane at janeblau@gmail.com