Welcome New Member Bonnie Baerwald

AFIT is pleased to welcome new member Bonnie Baerwald, President of Moraine Park Technical College (MPTC). Bonnie brings over three decades of dedicated leadership to the College and its district.

She began her career as an auditor at Grant Thornton and transitioned to higher education in 1993, advancing through progressive roles in the business office. As president, Bonnie oversees all strategic and operational aspects of the Moraine Park District, covering parts of 10 counties, serving over 13,000 learners annually and leading a staff of over 400 across three campuses.

Under Bonnie's leadership, MPTC achieved significant milestones, including passing a historic $55 million referendum in 2022. Her proactive approach forged impactful collaborations with university partners and regional businesses, resulting in new degree programs tailored to workforce needs.

Bonnie's advocacy led to innovative educational opportunities such as the Second Chance Pell program and the Promise Program, expanding access for justice-involved and economically disadvantaged learners. These achievements and more have earned Moraine Park recognition as one of 150 community colleges of excellence nationwide by the Aspen Institute.

Bonnie prioritizes a supportive work environment, leading to Moraine Park being recognized as a Best-in-Class Employer by Gallagher. Employee satisfaction has surged under her leadership, with engagement scores rising from 62.6 in 2016 to an impressive 80.5 in 2024, a 28.6% improvement.

MPTC's nomination for the Department of Defense Freedom Award underscores its commitment to employee support and organizational culture under Bonnie’s steadfast leadership, positioning the College among the top 30 public employers nationwide.

Beyond her role at MPTC, Bonnie serves in volunteer leadership positions across the district. She serves as the chair of the National Exchange Bank Board audit committee, a board member and past chair for Envision Greater Fond du Lac, a member of the Waukesha-Ozaukee-Washington County Economic and Workforce Development Board, a member of the Economic and Workforce Development Board for Washington County and is actively involved with the Fond du Lac Morning Kiwanis. Bonnie is also heavily connected throughout the higher education landscape in the Midwest and serves on numerous technical colleges and community committees.