Schmidt Receives Volunteer of the Year Award

Chanel Schmidt of Port Washington State Bank accepted the 2022 Volunteer of the Year Award at the Belgium Chamber of Commerce’s Celebrate Belgium event on Wednesday, November 9.

Schmidt began her career at PWSB 9 years ago, and in 2020, she stepped into her current role as assistant vice president and branch manager of PWSB’s Belgium branch. Long before starting in her role as branch manager, Schmidt had been an active member of the Belgium community. She was a catechist of Divine Savior Catholic Church for eight years. She was once president and is still an active member of the Cedar Grove-Belgium PTSO for the past five years as well as an ambassador of the Belgium Chamber of Commerce for four years running. She is the current treasurer for the Belgium Chamber and has begun volunteering for the Ozaukee Adult Literacy Center. As an employee of a community bank, Schmidt also enjoys bringing financial literacy opportunities to the Cedar Grove Belgium elementary and high schools to encourage financial well-being at a young age.

“One of the rewards I get from volunteering is seeing the community getting together and sharing in traditions. The Brew & Chew and Christmas celebration are examples of events that feel like a big family reunion to me. I look forward to them each year,” commented Schmidt.

Tara Williams, executive director of the Belgium Chamber, shared her own personal experiences in working with Schmidt. “She’s the first to volunteer for our major community events, and when she shows up, her positive attitude and outlook are so contagious — you can’t help but feel inspired by her,” Williams stated.

James Schowalter, president and COO of PWSB, reflected upon Schmidt’s willingness to help her community. “We are delighted to know that Chanel’s efforts are appreciated in the community, and we couldn’t be more proud of the example she sets for her team.”