Greater Mankato Growth is proud to share that Andy Wilke, Executive Vice President, recently completed his first year at the Institute for Organization Management (IOM), the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s premier nonprofit leadership training program. Andy attended the Winter Institute in Tucson, Arizona, alongside chamber and association leaders from across the country.
Why it matters
The Institute experience is designed to strengthen leadership skills and organizational effectiveness through intensive coursework in governance, advocacy, marketing, finance, and membership engagement. For Andy, the week was an opportunity to learn from proven industry peers and subject-matter experts—and to bring back best practices that will directly benefit Greater Mankato Growth members.
“Learning alongside proven industry peers and subject-matter experts at Winter Institute was invaluable. I’m bringing back best practices—stronger member onboarding and engagement, more impactful programs, and practical advocacy and governance tools—that will deliver measurable value for our members and help Greater Mankato Growth pursue our mission to support and promote the economic growth and vitality of our members and the regional marketplace,” said Andy Wilke.
Why This Matters for Our Members
- Enhanced Member Onboarding & Engagement: New strategies to make joining Greater Mankato Growth more seamless and rewarding, ensuring members feel connected and supported from day one.
- More Impactful Programs: Fresh ideas to strengthen events, educational offerings, and networking opportunities that drive real business growth.
- Stronger Advocacy & Governance: Practical tools to amplify our voice on issues that matter to businesses and improve decision-making for long-term success.
- Operational Efficiency: Best practices that help us deliver more value with fewer resources, so your investment goes further.
A Tradition of Leadership at GMG
President & CEO Della Schmidt is a proud graduate of the Institute for Organization Management, underscoring GMG’s dedication to applying nationally recognized best practices to serve our members and community.
“Having both our CEO and EVP participate in IOM ensures Greater Mankato Growth stays at the forefront of industry standards. It’s an investment that strengthens our leadership team and directly translates into greater value for our members,” said Andy Wilke.
About the Institute
Since 1921, the Institute program has educated thousands of association, chamber, and nonprofit leaders on how to build stronger organizations and better serve their members. Participants complete four weeklong sessions at different university campuses nationwide, combining required courses and electives to enhance organizational management skills and foster innovation.
Looking ahead
Andy’s continued participation in the Institute program ensures Greater Mankato Growth remains at the forefront of best practices—helping us create more value for our members and strengthen the regional economy.
Learn more about the Institute for Organization Management here.