401 E. Roberta Ave, Waukesha, WI 53186 262.970.3700 (phone) 262.970.3720 (fax) 262.970.3716 (attendance)

Wall of Fame


Susan Peterson

Class Of: 1968
Inducted In: 2004

Susan Peterson, Class of 1968. Susan began writing for the Freeman while she was still in high school, eventually becoming the editor of the Freemans Youth section. She received several state journalism awards, and in 1969 she received an award from the National Federation of Press Women. Following high school graduation, she went to UW Waukesha and UW Madison, graduating Cum Laude in 1972 with a bachelors degree in journalism (editorial and broadcast). She took a job with the CBS affiliate in Green Bay, working at the television station from 1972 to 1976. Susan was its first female reporter/producer. During that time, she also served as a news anchor. In 1980 she re-entered the work force after devoting four years to caring for her two children. She changed her career focus to corporate communications, where she worked for the oldest and largest hospital in Green Bay. She eventually became the Director of Communications at St. Vincent Hospital and was invited to serve on its administrative team. In 1986 she was promoted to Director of Development for the hospital and became responsible for developing the Friends of St. Vincent Hospital, a fundraising foundation. She helped raise more than a total of $10 million over the years. She is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and has achieved the designation of CFRE (Certified Fund Raising Executive). Sue is also a member of the American College of Health Care Executives and the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy. In addition, she oversees the Hospital Volunteer Services area, responsible for 850 volunteers who provide service in 60 areas of the hospital. She serves on the Management Committee of Unity Hospice and has taught fundraising classes at St. Norbert College in DePere. Susan also finds time for community work, serving on the corporate board of Heritage Hill State Park in Green Bay. She is a member of the Green Bay/DePere Antiquarian Society and an associate member of Service League of Green Bay. She is also active with St. Bernard Parish in Green Bay. Sue has been married to Michael Watts for more than 30 years and is a grandparent.


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