The end of 2023 brings to a close the tenures of three valued members of the Council Board of Directors: Chuck Fehl, Deen Amusa and Karen Heesen. Each member devoted time and energy to governance and oversight of our organization and were dedicated champions for the interests of people with vision loss in Wisconsin.
Chuck served on the Board for the past two years. The Berlin resident worked on the Nominating and Finance Committees. “Chuck’s concern for older adults experiencing vision loss is commendable,” says Executive Director Denise Jess. “During his tenure on the Board, he coordinated assistive technology fairs in Berlin, which drew people from around the area.” Denise adds that she appreciates Chuck’s desire to continue learning about the needs of people with vision loss in his quest to improve lives.
Outgoing member Deen Amusa of Stevens Point has been a Board member for the past eight years, serving on the Finance Committee and the Nominating Committee during various portions of his tenure. “As a vision rehabilitation services professional, Deen brought a valuable perspective to his service on the Board,” Denise says. “His interest in the Council’s advocacy work and commitment to the Council beyond his board tenure are much appreciated.”
Karen Heesen has served the Council on and off the Board for the past few decades, since her children were very young. Most recently, the Janesville resident worked on the Nominating Committee and participated in the student scholarship work group. “Karen brought a deep commitment to the Council’s mission of advocacy, education and vision services during her long tenure with the Council,” Denise says. “Her passion for opening educational opportunities for our scholarship applicants is heartwarming, as she knows the immense value that education can have in the lives of people with vision loss.”
“All our board members bring unique skills and abilities to the governance of the Wisconsin Council of the Blind & Visually Impaired, and I am grateful to them for donating their time, energy and skills to the pursuit of the Council’s mission,” says Board Chair Nick Sinram. “Karen, Deen and Chuck each brought their own combination of strengths, experience, interests and passion to the Board. Their contributions are greatly appreciated.
The Council wishes Chuck, Deen and Karen all the best. We’re grateful for all you have done for our organization and the people we serve!
