OUR TEAM
Kristin Hubbard Dostal is top-performing, goal orientated, forward-thinking professional, who leads by focusing on core values, community, and collaboration. She brings a wealth of experience, deep local connections, and a passion for supporting creativity.
Kristin previously worked as as the Executive Director at the Epilepsy Foundation of Wisconsin, where she also served as the Development Director and Program Director. Her background in running a small business as a photographer gives her a unique perspective and understanding of the needs of our creative community. Kristin holds an accounting degree from Mid-State Technical College and has completed the Nonprofit Leadership Institute, adding valuable skills and knowledge to her repertoire.
Ryan Branwell is a results-driven, innovative event manager dedicated to achieving goals through core values, community engagement, and collaboration. With extensive experience and strong local connections, he is passionate about nurturing creativity and fostering inclusive environments.
Ryan has successfully partnered with CREATE for several years, spearheading initiatives that empower queer and diverse voices while strengthening community ties. His expertise in event management, relationship building, and strategic planning has led to impactful events that inspire creativity and promote cultural enrichment.
Garrett Katerzynske utilizes his experience in film production, advertising, journalism and media studies to support a range of projects and resources within CREATE. His passion for the creative arts and ability to communicate strategically help connect our members and enhance our overall brand.
In every project he pursues, he strives to bring aesthetics in sync with authentic storytelling and strategic goals. Collaboration and careful consideration are key to his approach, ensuring our full community is considered within a rapidly-evolving creative landscape.
Join our Board of Directors!
CREATE Portage County is seeking passionate individuals to join our Board of Directors and reviews prospective members regularly. If you're committed to making a lasting impact, we invite you to apply and be a part of the mission.
Please complete the application and email to notify us of your interest.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
OFFICERS
BEN NUSZ, PRESIDENT
MID-STATE TECHNICAL COLLEGE
PHILLIP BLAIR, CO-VICE PRESIDENT
GAMBER JOHNSON
PAULA SCHLICE, CO-VICE PRESIDENT
BUSINESS CONSULTANTS
MICHAEL MORE, SECRETARY
MAIN GRAIN BAKERY
WILLIAM SCHIERL, TREASURER
TEAM SCHIERL COMPANIES
REPRESENTATIVES
DAWN BRANDT
KPR BROKERS
BRIAN ELZA
POINT BREWERY
REBECCA GABODA
SKYWARD
CHRIS KLESMITH
CITY OF STEVENS POINT
ANELLO MOLLICA
CENTRAL WATERS BREWERY
KEVIN OBSATZ
UWSP
CHELSEY PFIFFNER
PORTAGE COUNTY HISTORIAN
CASEY TRADER
STRATADEFENSE
AMANDA YENTER
COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER
Our Story
Mission: Accelerating creativity, connection, and collaboration to advance vibrant and welcoming communities.
Vision: To nourish communities where creativity, the arts, and entrepreneurship intertwine, fostering transformative experiences that celebrate diverse voices, ignite economic prosperity, and cultivate a sense of belonging.
CREATE Portage County's journey from its origins as the Arts Alliance of Portage County is a story of innovation, growth, and community impact. Since its founding in 2004, the organization has championed arts and culture as vital components of local development. Early on, the Arts Alliance leveraged economic data and creative economy studies to drive arts-based growth. By 2015, the organization’s success in transforming local tourism through strategic marketing and creative initiatives led to the launch of CREATE Portage County, expanding its mission to support all forms of creativity.
The 2016 rebranding solidified CREATE's role as a leader in community development and creative placemaking. CREATE recognized that bringing people together (social bonding), connecting different groups (social bridging), and growing local businesses (economic gardening) were crucial for a vibrant community. The organization earned recognition and numerous awards, including the Wisconsin Tourism Trailblazer Award for the #OrangeBarrelArt Tour and the Levitt AMP City Music Series, the latter of which brought free live music to the community.
With a legacy of innovative programs like the IDEA Center, CREATE continues to energize Portage County and the surrounding region. Recent projects highlight local creators, enhance downtown revitalization, and foster small-town economies through creativity. As CREATE Portage County evolves and heads into its next era, it remains committed to nurturing vibrant, inclusive communities in Central Wisconsin.