As director of development at Hales Corners Lutheran Church in suburban Milwaukee, Dale Wiza has the pleasure of coordinating fund raising and gift development, both for the church, schools, and HCL Foundation, along with financial education and care ministry, with the “Matthew Ministers.”

Hales Corners Lutheran Church’s purpose is to reach, grow, and serve with Christian relationships, worship, and educational experiences.

Career Highlights:

• Self-employed for 19 years
• Chairman of the Board for SAE Milwaukee Section
• Asked to leave the church’s board of directors to start up this new department of development
• Coordinator for campaign to build a community center/gymnasium
• Coordinator of our “Matthew Ministries”, which have helped so many families

Q & A

How many years have you been a development professional?
two years

What led you to being a development professional?
An invitation from our pastor, and then learning how I may grow to serve in this role

What has been the biggest challenge for you as a development professional?
With a church of 7900 members, there’s an overwhelming amount of opportunities to reach and grow people with Christian stewardship.

What excites you about your position?
With a church of 7900 members, we’re so blessed with the opportunities to reach and grow people with Christian stewardship.

What is the most essential quality of a good development professional?
Having their own heart “right” for doing this part of the Lord’s work

Who has been a mentor for you and why?
Phil Meinzen. He has such a servant’s heart, extreme wisdom, and has great vision to reach many.

How many years have you been a member of ALDE?

Two years. It was a prerequisite for me to have a strong, supportive organization like ALDE.

Describe an ALDE experience that has been particularly noteworthy, fun, uplifting, educational, etc.
Every ALDE event is fun and uplifting for me. I especially enjoyed hearing Bernard Ross’s experiences, and reasoning.

What is a favorite book you have read recently and why?
Rich Teerlink’s “More Than a Motorcycle”
It’s an honest and humble testimony of his Christian approach to renew Harley-Davidson, through empowering the people to make a difference.

What three things do you like to do besides working?
• Almost anything outdoors with the family, including our golden retriever, Riley
• When I’m able to reach people for Christ
• Any outdoor recreation with friends