Holly Brenner – 2026 Senior Co-Chair

Holly believes in the power of people coming together to make communities stronger. She leads with heart and vision, working across sectors to promote strategic growth and long-term success for Fond du Lac and the region.

In her role as Senior Vice President at C.D. Smith Construction, Holly shapes business strategies that drive innovation while staying rooted in community values.

Walleye Weekend holds a special place in Holly’s heart. For her, the festival is more than just fun—it’s a celebration of community spirit and the energy that makes Fond du Lac such a special place to live and raise a family. A participant in the Walleye Run and active supporter of the sporting and fishing events that her family engages in, Holly sees Walleye Weekend as a reflection of the pride and potential of the region.

A lifelong Wisconsinite and passionate community leader, Holly lives in Fond du Lac with her husband and their three children. She actively serves on several local and regional boards and finds purpose in mentoring others. Holly is proud to be part of a community that works together, celebrates together, and builds a better future—together.

Grant Monroe – 2026 Senior Co-Chair

Grant grew up in Chicago, Illinois, but attended St. Lawrence Seminary and then graduated from Marian University.  Grant has lived in Fond du Lac for over 20 years and his family includes his wife, Melissa, his daughter, Aleah, and his two younger sons – Camden and Cole.  Cole, his youngest son, was diagnosed with autism at the age of 3, and that’s why The Arc Fond du Lac has held such a special place in his heart and mind.  Grant enjoys coaching track at Fond du Lac High School as well as mentoring students in the process.  Grant is now the Director of Development at The Arc and looks forward to volunteering during Walleye Weekend and enjoying what family-friendly activities the free festival has to offer.

In 2025, Walleye Weekend is partnering with SSM Health and The Treffert Center to set up a Sensory-inclusive and calming area for those with special sensory needs like Grant’s son, Cole.  Look for the SSM Health Calming Area as well as many family-friendly activities inside FamilyLand this year.

Jen Nicklas – 2026 Junior Co-Chair

Jen believes in the power of strong communities and the connections that help them thrive. A Fond du Lac native, she brings both pride and perspective to her role as Director of Marketing at BCI Burke, where she helps tell the story of building better communities through play and connection. She enjoys supporting Walleye Weekend, an event she grew up with and now experiences alongside her own family, which brings people together through traditions like live music, family activities, and the annual Mercury fishing tournament. She also serves on the Board of the Boys & Girls Club, supporting opportunities for local youth.

Jen lives in Fond du Lac with her husband, Will, and their two sons, Michael and Matthew. Her family actively participates in Walleye Weekend, including the Walleye Run, and enjoys spending time outdoors together, especially boating on Lake Winnebago, golfing, and making the most of Wisconsin summers.

 

Aaron Sadoff – 2026 Junior Co-Chair

Aaron Sadoff is a proud Fond du Lac native who’s excited to serve as a co‑chair of Walleye Weekend. The festival has been part of his life since he was young, and he’s always seen it as one of the things that makes this community special.

A Gulf War veteran and former Army soldier, Aaron has also spent nearly three decades serving others back home. He spent 25 years in public education as a teacher, principal, and superintendent, followed by two years leading the Fond du Lac Area Foundation. He now continues that commitment as President of Marian University.  

Walleye Weekend remains one of Aaron’s favorite traditions. He’s run the Walleye Run countless times, spent summer nights listening to bands with friends, and volunteered for years with Oriole Nation concessions. For him, Walleye Weekend is not just another date on the calendar, it is when summer truly begins!

He is proud to be married to his wife Kelly for 30 years and of their three adult children, Ethan, Lilly and Paige.  Aaron’ looks forward to another great year at Lakeside Park, seeing friends, making memories, and sharing stories from Walleye Weekends past.