Meet Rebecca Schimke, a Wisconsin Northwoods native who proudly calls Milwaukee home. Drawn to the city’s balance of vibrant urban life and easy access to the outdoors, she started her career in Milwaukee’s museum community.
After transitioning into nonprofit leadership with United Way, she moved into the corporate sector and now serves as Director of Communications at Palermo’s.
Her life mantra? “Challenge Accepted.” After being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in her early thirties, Rebecca didn’t slow down—she sharpened her focus. The experience deepened her commitment to resilience, accessibility, and building inclusive spaces across Milwaukee. She believes Milwaukee’s best days are ahead—if we lean in boldly, collaboratively, and keep giving young professionals a reason to build their lives right here.
What is your background?
I’m from the Wisconsin Northwoods but am proud to call Milwaukee home. I like the mix of city life and access to the outdoors southeastern Wisconsin offers.
Any stories from your youth that define your path?
My mantra has always been “Challenge Accepted.” Saying yes and taking on challenges has allowed me to grow and experience a lot of new and exciting things. One defining challenge in my life has been my Multiple Sclerosis (MS) diagnosis, which I received in my early thirties.
Rather than slowing me down, it sharpened my sense of purpose. It taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of community—lessons that now fuel both my professional work and my personal mission to create inclusive, accessible spaces.
Where did you study (if you did higher education)?
I attended UW-Superior for my undergraduate degree in Sociology and UW-Milwaukee for my graduate degree in Liberal Studies and Museum Studies. Both were great schools with very different experiences.
What do you do for work now?
I’m the Director of Communications for Palermo’s Pizza. In my role, I manage internal and external communications, public relations, company philanthropy, and community sponsorships and partnerships.
Can you talk a little bit about your career journey? How’d you get to where you are now?
Throughout graduate school and after I worked in a few of Milwaukee’s great museums. I then transitioned to non-profit work with United Way. I chose to move to Palermo’s in a role that allowed me to maintain community connections through sponsorships and have evolved into my director position throughout my tenure.
Can you talk more about your community involvement or volunteer experience?
My corporate role allows me to be involved in the community, which I love. Outside of work my focus is largely on supporting the MS Society – I am a board trustee and community engagement chair. I love connecting people where it makes sense and being a resource.
What are some ways you have impacted the community in your line of work?
I enjoy being an advocate for making Milwaukee a better place for everyone. I’m able to be involved in so much through my professional role and spend my free time exploring the city and giving back where I can. It’s an ongoing effort and I’m always looking for new and exciting ways to give back.
What do you like about living in Milwaukee?
Milwaukee is a big, small city in all the best ways. We have an amazing foodie scene, sports, museums, and Lake Michigan. Milwaukee is a gem. There is so much to do, but I still run into people I know all the time – Small-waukee moments are so fun.
What do you want to see for Milwaukee’s future?
I want to see continued growth through social and economic development. Milwaukee has so much potential, and I hope we lean into it boldly and collaboratively. I want young people to see Milwaukee as a place to settle and build their lives and families.
Anything else we should know about you?
I’m planning a MS fundraiser on March 12 – Strike a Pose for MS | Headshot Happy Hour. It’s my first solo event/fundraising effort!
Headshot Happy Hour: Strike a Pose for MS is a unique networking event with a purpose!
📅 Date: Thursday, March 12, 2026
🕔 Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 Location: South Second (838 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI 53204)
Enjoy a relaxed evening of professional networking while updating your headshot—and making a difference. All proceeds from this event will benefit the National MS Society, supporting critical research and resources for those living with multiple sclerosis.
What to Expect:
- Professional headshot session
- Two Complimentary drinks and light appetizers
- A chance to connect with local professionals and community leaders
There will be a great silent auction and amazing networking! More information and tickets can be found at https://schimke.ticketbud.com/headshot-happy-hour