Genene Hibbler is a mission-driven leader dedicated to fostering spaces where healing, empowerment, and community connection thrive. As the Founder and Executive Director of Heart 2 Heart Compassionate Widow’s Circles, Inc., she has built a compassionate support network to guide widows through grief, restoration, and personal growth. Her leadership is grounded in empathy, practical resources, and a deep commitment to helping others rebuild with strength and dignity. In addition to her nonprofit leadership, Genene is the visionary behind the Let’s Talk Heart 2 Heart – Oak Creek concept—an initiative that fosters open dialogue, community accountability, and meaningful engagement among parents, caregivers, and residents. Her work amplifies the voices of those who often feel unheard and fosters transparent conversations that lead to real solutions. A strong advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Genene champions fairness, understanding, and equitable treatment in the broader community. As a widow and trusted listener for families in the Oak Creek-Franklin Joint School District, she provides insight, advocacy, and support to parents navigating complex or difficult situations.
With a reputation for compassion, clarity, and unwavering dedication, Genene remains a voice of hope for individuals navigating life transitions, grief, or community challenges. Her work reflects a deep belief in the power of connection, courageous conversations, and standing with others through every season of life.
LeRoy Butler’s story of resilience and achievement—from overcoming childhood physical challenges to becoming a Super Bowl champion and Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee—makes him an inspiring figure for this critical conversation. His commitment to community engagement reflects his belief in bridging hearts and building stronger, more inclusive communities.
We are so excited to have Cheribu Music join us for our 2nd Annual Let's Talk Heart 2 Heart - Oak Creek event. Help us welcome Cherigale Buchanan, EdD, gospel recording artist and worship leader, her faith in Jesus Christ grounds her lifelong commitment to Reconciliation, Truth, and Hope to our platform.
Cherigale Music | Psalm 89:1 https://share.google/pFE04BhOskMHMuqOq
She is an educator, scholar, and artist with over 20 years of experience teaching in diverse public schools and universities. She began her career teaching middle school math in Milwaukee Public Schools, where she learned the power of joy, respect, and
relationship-centered learning in multicultural classrooms. Later, Cherigale taught future teachers at Marquette University and the University of Wisconsin, helping students examine race, education, and their roles in urban schools through honest dialogue, community engagement, and reflective practice. Her work is shaped by both professional expertise and lived experience navigating education as a woman of color. Cherigale holds a doctorate in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education with a focus on mathematics education and continues to mentor educators and doctoral students.
Dr. Buchanan, we are honored to have you share your gifts and talents with us.
We welcome Terry Thompson, to the Adult Panel Discussion. He is a 36-year-old believer in Christ who was born and raised in Milwaukee, WI. Growing up in the 53206 zip code. Terry endured significant trauma at a very young age—experiences that shaped his Resilience, Faith, and Commitment to Overcoming Adversity. Through Perseverance and Determination, he went on to graduate from Kaplan College, earning a technical diploma in Computer Science and Network Infrastructure. Today, Terry is a devoted husband and a proud father of two, leading his family with Faith, Humility, and Purpose. He carries a servant’s heart and is deeply passionate about serving his community. Terry currently serves as the Site Operations Manager for a local non-profit, where he is known for his strong leadership, work ethic, and willingness to step in where others may hesitate. He is not afraid to do what others will not do, nor is he discouraged by what others say cannot be done. Driven by his love for Christ, Terry also travels worldwide on mission trips, answering the call to make disciples of all nations and to share the gospel through both Service and Action.
Cindi Short, a serial entrepreneur, designer, artist, and lifelong Milwaukeean. South side kid, Milwaukee Tech grad, and someone who has spent her entire career building things in this city — businesses, creative communities, and the kinds of rooms where people who don't usually sit together actually get somewhere. She co-founded Translator, an experience design agency that became one of Milwaukee's most unlikely community hubs, connecting corporate strategists with neighborhood advocates, startup founders with nonprofit leaders. She was pivotal in launching several community-facing organizations, spent a decade advising the National Center for Women & Information Technology, was a founding member of Islands of Brilliance for neurodiverse youth, launched Girls in Tech Milwaukee, and chaired the JEDI committee for Girl Scouts of Wisconsin Southeast. The thread across all of it: the most important work happens where different worlds meet. That isn't just a professional belief. Cindi raised her children in Oak Creek's school system, coached forensics at the high school, and has built a life and business with her husband Damani as a multicultural family in a city still learning how to talk about its dividing lines. She doesn't come to this conversation as an outside expert — she comes as someone who has lived it, quietly, for a long time. Today Cindi co-leads Lexico, a transformation consultancy she and Damani founded. She serves on the board of the Brain Inflammation Collaborative, drawing on her own years-long search for an autoimmune diagnosis — another space where being unseen is the defining experience, and where showing up for others matters.
It is our privilege to have Mr. Nick Galezewski join our Adult Panel this year. A Milwaukee native, Nick earned his BBA from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee and later completed a Master’s degree in Theology at Trinity International University.
He has been married for nearly 24 years to, Lucia, a South American immigrant from Ecuador, and together they have built a richly multicultural family with two Latino children and two Black children.This lived experience has shaped a deep, personal commitment to racial reconciliation and cross-cultural understanding. An Oak Creek resident for the past 16 years, he currently serves as Executive Director of the Wisconsin Chamber of Faith, bringing more than 20 years of experience in operational management into his leadership in ministry
We are honored to have the Heart 2 Heart Culinary Arts Circle Director Chef Mama Zakiya join our Adult Panel Discussion for the second time. She is a retired educator, cultural and spiritual activist, and vegan chef/owner of Vegan Soul. Zakiya is an avid gardener, herbal apprentice, and consultant who has earned numerous local and national awards. Married to Tony Courtney for 47 years, she is proud of her blended family of 15 children, 52 grandchildren, and 26+ great-grandchildren. She led Parents for School Choice, advocating for voucher and charter programs nationwide, and was invited to the White House to discuss school choice. Zakiya holds degrees from Alverno College in Professional Communication and Business. Today, she's a finance expert and community leader who believes everyone deserves a seat at the table
After spending over 20 years in corporate finance at various large organizations, Lucia founded ALZA—an organization that lifts up communities through leadership training and financial guidance. She's passionate about creating opportunities for women and people of color. Lucia doesn't just talk about change—she makes it happen. She's built mentorship programs, created inclusive workplace strategies, and partnered with Milwaukee organizations to strengthen our community. She serves on multiple boards including the Urban Ecology Center and Hispanic Collaborative. A proud mom of four, Lucia leads with courage and heart. She brings people together—just like at her abuela's table—because that's where real relationships and lasting change begin. Management, a Master’s in Educational Leadership, and completed doctoral studies at Cardinal Stritch University.
We welcome the Heart 2 Heart Compassionate Widow's Circles Inc., Digital Messenger Circle Director, Jonathan Johnson III to facilitate a Breakout Session for Youth during the Let's Talk Heart 2 Heart - Oak Creek event. He is a technology and business operations leader with over a decade of experience leveraging digital solutions to drive impact, efficiency, and growth. For the past three years, he has proudly served on the Board of Directors for Heart 2 Heart Compassionate Widows Circle, where he brings deep expertise in Information Technology, business analysis, and strategic options. Jonathan is a firm believer that technology’s greatest value lies in its ability to empower people. His work centers on helping individuals unlock their full potential through digital literacy, accessible innovation, and practical technology education. He leads the organization's AI Education Program, which equips participants with the knowledge and confidence to leverage generative AI tools to amplify their talents, enhance productivity and drive meaningful career growth. Through his leadership, Jonathan bridges compassion and innovation, ensuring that emerging technologies are not only understood, but thoughtfully applied to create opportunity, inclusion, and lasting community impact.
We welcome the Heart 2 Heart Compassionate Widow's Circles Inc., Chairman of the Board of Directors, Antonio Johnson, to facilitate a Breakout Session for Youth during the Let's Talk Heart 2 Heart - Oak Creek event. He is a technical professional. He is passionate about using leadership and technology to build stronger organizations. A commitment to operational excellence defines his career—whether that’s troubleshooting complex Windows environments or guiding non-profit boards toward sustainable growth. Antonio is focused on driving digital transformation for community organizations in the Milwaukee area. His recent work includes modernizing web presence and governance structures for Honorable Living Homes and the Heart 2 Heart Compassionate Widows Circles. He enjoys the challenge of translating technical concepts—like the integration of AI models—into practical solutions that help organizations run smoothly and serve more people. Beyond the technical specs and board meetings, Antonio is deeply invested in mentoring others. He believes that effective leadership is about empowering others to succeed.
We’re honored to introduce one of our Youth Panelists, SANIYA HILSON.
Saniya Hilson, is 18 years old and a Senior at Oak Creek High School. She will be attending Carthage College. She plans to become a Pediatric or NICU Nurse because she is extremely passionate about helping children and supporting them during some of their most important moments. Saniya represents the VOICE, HOPE, AND LEADERSHIP of the Next Generation—and you won’t want to miss her perspective. Heart 2 Heart is so proud of our Youth Leaders.
Kara is a 16-year-old Junior at Oak Creek High School. She is already making a meaningful impact in our community. She serves as a Junior School Board Representative to the Oak Creek–Franklin Joint School District's Board of Education and is an active member of the Oak Creek Junior Optimist Club. With a passion for service and leadership, Kara hopes to continue her education with a focus on Psychology, as Mental Health is an important topic to her. Her voice, perspective, and commitment to positive change represent the Power of Youth Leadership in building UNDERSTANDING AND UNITY.
Dr. Kemba Banyard, DNP, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified Nurse Practitioner with dual expertise in family practice and psychiatric mental health. With training and experience treating patients across the lifespan, she provides care for a wide range of family practice and psychiatric conditions in diverse clinical settings, including hospitals and outpatient clinics. From 2003 to 2015, Dr. Banyard practiced mental health care at Milwaukee County Behavioral Health, where she supported individuals and families navigating complex behavioral and mental health needs. In addition to her clinical work, she is a speaker for Minds in Motion, educating and engaging communities to promote mental wellness, increase awareness, and reduce stigma around mental health.
Minds in Motion, led by Rita Saavedra from Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, is a community-based mental health and wellness education program designed for people of all ages. The program promotes positive mental health through engaging, practical learning experiences that build resilience, strengthen healthy coping skills, and support overall health and wellness. A core focus of Minds in Motion is mental health and anti-bullying education, helping participants recognize bullying behaviors, practice empathy and inclusion, and learn safe, supportive ways to respond as peers, families, and community members. Through appropriate age activities, discussions, and skill-building tools, Minds in Motion empowers individuals to build confidence, improve emotional well-being, and strengthen connections, creating healthier, more supportive communities.
Leia Rios, the Executive Director of Generations Against Bullying (GAB), where she helps to prevent bullying and promote safer, more supportive environments for young people. She is also the owner of Journey 2 Confidence, a platform that empowers others through confidence-building, personal growth, and positive self-image. Rios is also a speaker for Minds in Motion, sharing messages that support mental wellness, encourage open conversation, and help reduce stigma through youth-focused engagement and community outreach. In addition to her leadership and advocacy, she has represented her community as Miss Preteen Wisconsin, using her voice and visibility to inspire peers and advance initiatives focused on kindness, resilience, and youth empowerment.
Pascual Rodriguez, a recognized leader and community-minded professional whose work has earned notable honors in the Milwaukee area. In 2004, he was named a recipient of the Milwaukee Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 award, acknowledging his achievements and influence early in his career. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Rodriguez is committed to community outreach—particularly in support of mental health awareness and well-being. Through the mental health program Minds in Motion, he has helped advance initiatives that encourage open dialogue, reduce stigma, and connect individuals and families with resources and support. Marquette University further recognized Rodriguez’s impact by naming him the 2006 Young Alumnus of the Year, an honor that reflects both his career achievements and his dedication to service.