Spring Into Nurse Wellness Benefit Gala 2026

Hear from inspiring speakers devoted to supporting Wisconsin nurses: Kristin Waite-Labott, Dennise Lavrenz, Liesette Rendell, Julie Lepianka, Olivia Zaleski, and our Emcee Bryan Polcyn.

Join us in celebration and support by enjoying heavy hors d’oeuvres, music, and a silent auction.

Your support helps ensure no nurse stands alone. Together, we’re reducing stigma and empowering community. Extend hope: Normalize conversations about mental health and substance use. Empower community: Fund peer support meetings and nurse-to-nurse mentorship. Celebrate recovery: Encourage resilience across the profession.

The American Nurses Association (ANA) estimates 6%–8% of nurses struggle with alcohol or drugs to an extent that impairs professional performance. Beyond substance use, many nurses face burnout, compassion fatigue, and mental health challenges.

WisPAN is a peer support and education organization created by nurses for nurses across Wisconsin, offering confidential community, mentorship, and resources to support mental wellness, burnout, and recovery.

Secure your spot for an evening of elegance, inspiration, and community. Individual tickets are available at $100 each, with tables of 8 for $600.

For more information, sponsorships, or to donate auction items, reach out to [email protected] or 414-376-7002.

Info: Bryan and Kristin have a unique history together, which he will share at the Gala. As an investigative reporter at FOX6 News, Bryan has spent years covering complex issues that have a genuine impact on people’s lives.

Info: With over 30 years in nursing, Kristin shares her journey from addiction to recovery. Learn how she empowers nurses through peer support and education.

Info: Dennise is a nursing leader and advocate bringing insight into wellness, leadership, and mental health support.

Info: Liesette is a nurse leader sharing a perspective from acute care and frontline leadership.

Info: Julie Lepianka is a master’s prepared RN and Certified Nurse Educator who specializes in preparing future nurses to provide compassionate, patient-centered care. Her energy and authenticity have inspired and engaged audiences of all ages for over three and a half decades. Her passion is connection, because “when we connect, we heal.”™

Info: Olivia is a nursing student and CNA offering an emerging nurse’s perspective on support and recovery.

Info: Be inspired by nurses sharing real stories of hope, healing, and recovery. Learn how WisPAN’s peer support community fosters connection, mental wellness, and lasting change.

Info: Last chance to bid! Every auction item supports WisPAN’s mission of peer support, recovery, and nurse wellness. Bidding closes at 8:10 PM!

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Host or Publisher Wisconsin Peer Alliance for Nurses, WisPAN