The WiSys award recognizes Universities of Wisconsin leaders, faculty, staff, students, and community partners who have played an integral role in building a culture of innovation in communities across Wisconsin.

Guimond, Director of the Center of Continuing Education at UW-Superior, is also a liaison for the Small Business Development Center and the university partner for WiSys VentureHome-Superior.  Guimond spearheaded the efforts with UW-Superior to bring a VentureHome location to the city and has been instrumental in engaging the university for experts and speakers for the Level Up! Pre-seed Accelerator, a program for local entrepreneurs.

“I am humbled to receive this award and appreciative of having a position that allows me to serve our Superior community,” said Guimond.” My ‘innovation’ comes from an authentic desire to serve the lifelong learners of northern Wisconsin. Whether it is an entrepreneur from the VentureHome-Superior programming working hard to serve our community or listening to employers in our region regarding the learning needs of their employees, this work inspires me to create opportunities for potential growth and a vibrant community.”

In addition to her university and VentureHome work, Guimond has also been the Principal Investigator and recipient of a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant, which was awarded while she was working at the Science Museum of Minnesota. The grant focused on reaching female educators and underrepresented groups in immersive technology and opportunities in STEM.

“Kathryn’s support in bringing VentureHome to Superior was inexhaustible and vital to the success of the program,” said WiSys President Arjun Sanga. “She has invested time to expand her own learnings entrepreneurship to make the Level Up! program a success.”

Guimond was honored as the Innovation Champion during the 2024 WiSys SPARK Symposium. To learn more about the event, read the SPARK recap.