2026 Economic Forum
Featuring keynote speaker Marci Rossell, Expert Economic Forecaster, Former Chief Economist for CNBC, and Co-Host of Squawk Box
Event Details
Tuesday, JUNE 2, 2026
10:30 AM Registration & Networking
11:30–1:00 PM Program
Luncheon | The Pfister Hotel – Grand Ballroom
Milwaukee Jewish Federation’s Economic Forum convenes the business community to hear a world-class expert explore an issue of importance to our economy and an analysis of the issue through a local lens.
2026 Keynote Speaker
Marci Rossell
Expert Economic Forecaster, Former Chief Economist for CNBC, and Co-Host of Squawk Box
Marci Rossell is a world-renowned economist and financial expert who speaks candidly on the nexus of economics, politics, culture, and the media. As the former Chief Economist for CNBC and co-host of the popular morning program Squawk Box, Rossell became a household name and a must-watch source of financial news. Known for transforming complex economic issues into engaging and relevant stories, she connects global market trends to people’s everyday lives, families, and careers.
In her keynote speech, Rossell will discuss America’s current and future role in the global economy, factors responsible for recessions, how Washington influences Wall Street and the markets, and her forecast for the U.S. economy over the next 18–24 months. With a knack for making complex topics digestible and relatable, she will bring her authentic outlook on economic trends, investor behavior, and consumer confidence.
Prior to her career in broadcast journalism, Rossell served as Corporate Economist and Investment Spokesperson for OppenheimerFunds, one of the nation’s largest mutual fund companies. Before moving to Wall Street, she was an expert witness for Deloitte & Touche in court cases involving economic issues and began her career as an economist with the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas.
Rossell earned a Ph.D. in Economics and is a trusted voice in finance and media. She brings a world of experience—from Main Street to Wall Street—when discussing the U.S. economy, international events, and movements in capital markets.
Economic Forum Co-Chairs
This event has been led since its inception by three of Milwaukee’s most respected business and philanthropic leaders.
Linda Gorens-Levey
Linda Gorens-Levey is a Partner of General Capital Group. She is one of four co-chairs for this event and was instrumental in the growth of the Milwaukee Jewish Federation’s original Economic Forum series.
David Lubar
David Lubar is President and CEO of Lubar & Co., a Milwaukee-based private investment firm that invests in middle market operating companies with a focus on long term growth. He is a board director of many philanthropic and private organizations.
Greg Marcus
Gregory S. Marcus is president and CEO of The Marcus Corporation, a Milwaukee-based leader in lodging and entertainment. He is a director of many philanthropic and non-profit organizations in Milwaukee.
Economic Forum Sponsors
Thank you to our generous sponsors who are making this event possible.
Herb Kohl Service Award
The Herb Kohl Service Award, named for one of Wisconsin’s most distinguished leaders, and presented annually at the Economic Forum, honors individuals who make exceptional lifetime contributions to Wisconsin through philanthropy, business, and community leadership.
FAQs
What can I expect at the Economic Forum?
The Forum attracts a professionally minded audience that includes senior executives, business owners, industry experts, civic leaders, and emerging professionals. Attendees come from a wide range of sectors and value the event for its high-level economic insights, strategic networking opportunities, and connection to Milwaukee’s leadership community.
Who attends the Economic Forum?
Attendees can expect a dynamic program featuring a distinguished keynote speaker, insights into current economic and business trends, and opportunities to connect with leaders from across Milwaukee. The event is designed to inform, inspire, and spark meaningful conversations about issues shaping our community and beyond.
How can I participate or become a partner?
Corporate partners are invited to participate in the Economic Forum through sponsorship opportunities that offer brand visibility, executive engagement, and access to special event experiences. Limited individual tickets may become available each year, but availability is not guaranteed.
Partnership Packages
Let’s customize a corporate partnership that fits you and your business.
Ryan Woloshin, Director of Corporate Partnerships, at 414-390-5774 or RyanW@MilwaukeeJewish.org
Lead with vision. Shape community impact.
- Exclusive Presenting Sponsor of the Major Donor Appreciation Event
- Partner Showcase: featured multimedia highlight across MJF channels
- Community Recognition Event acknowledging corporate leadership
- Annual Report Ad
- Lobby Signage at Milwaukee Jewish Federation facilities
- Welcome message at the Economic Forum
- Presenting Sponsor for HINENI (Campaign Kickoff), VALOR, BPN Ignite, and Campaign Closing
- Preferred seating at the Economic Forum (first row)
- Ads in Wisconsin Jewish Chronicle print and online at JewishChronicle.org
- Full page print ad
- Recognition in three Milwaukee Business Journal Ads
- Employee Learning Workshop hosted by MJF, JCRC, HERC, or JMM
- Mission Impact Experience (briefing, tour, or site-based experience)
- Volunteer Day coordinated by MJF
- Co-branded annual Impact Report
- Presenting Sponsor for additional MJF Affinity Event – BPN, NextGen, Women’s Philanthropy
- Exclusive virtual Q&A with the Economic Forum keynote speaker
- Table for 10 at the Economic Forum
- Inclusion in Wisconsin Jewish Chronicle Sponsor Recognition ad
- Recognition on MJF website, social media, and in the Annual Report
- Recognition in Economic Forum event materials and at the CPP Fall Reception
- Invitation to an Impact Briefing with Local, Agency, or National/Global Partner
Host. Connect. Be seen at the center of impact.
- Annual Report Ad
- Lobby Signage at Milwaukee Jewish Federation facilities
- Welcome message at the Economic Forum
- Presenting Sponsor for HINENI (Campaign Kickoff), VALOR, BPN Ignite, and Campaign Closing
- Preferred seating at the Economic Forum (first two rows)
- Ads in Wisconsin Jewish Chronicle print and online at JewishChronicle.org
- Half page print ad
- Recognition in three Milwaukee Business Journal Ads
- Employee Learning Workshop hosted by MJF, JCRC, HERC, or JMM
- Mission Impact Experience (briefing, tour, or site-based experience)
- Volunteer Day coordinated by MJF
- Co-branded annual Impact Report
- Presenting Sponsor for additional MJF Affinity Event – BPN, NextGen, Women’s Philanthropy
- Exclusive virtual Q&A with the Economic Forum keynote speaker
- Table for 10 at the Economic Forum
- Inclusion in Wisconsin Jewish Chronicle Sponsor Recognition ad
- Recognition on MJF website, social media, and in the Annual Report
- Recognition in Economic Forum event materials and at the CPP Fall Reception
- Invitation to an Impact Briefing with Local, Agency, or National/Global Partner
Activate your brand through connection and purpose.
- Preferred seating at the Economic Forum (first three rows)
- Ads in Wisconsin Jewish Chronicle print and online at JewishChronicle.org
- 1/4 page print ad
- Recognition in three Milwaukee Business Journal Ads
- Employee Learning Workshop hosted by MJF, JCRC, HERC, or JMM
- Mission Impact Experience (briefing, tour, or site-based experience)
- Volunteer Day coordinated by MJF
- Co-branding annual Impact Report
- Presenting Sponsor for additional MJF Affinity Event – BPN, NextGen, Women’s Philanthropy
- Exclusive virtual Q&A with the Economic Forum keynote speaker
- Table for 10 at the Economic Forum
- Inclusion in Wisconsin Jewish Chronicle Sponsor Recognition ad
- Recognition on MJF website, social media, and in the Annual Report
- Recognition in Economic Forum event materials and at the CPP Fall Reception
- Invitation to an Impact Briefing with Local, Agency, or National/Global Partner
Be present where Milwaukee’s leaders gather.
- Table for 10 at the Economic Forum
- Inclusion in Wisconsin Jewish Chronicle Sponsor Recognition ad
- Recognition on MJF website, social media, and in the Annual Report
- Recognition in Economic Forum event materials and at the CPP Fall Reception
- Invitation to an Impact Briefing with Local, Agency, or National/Global Partner
Leadership
Ryan Woloshin is the Director of the Business & Professional Network and Corporate Partnerships at the Milwaukee Jewish Federation. He brings more than a decade of experience in Jewish communal leadership, fundraising, and education, with a professional focus on strengthening Jewish identity, addressing antisemitism, and building meaningful pathways for engagement and philanthropy.
Ryan earned his undergraduate degree from Randolph College and holds dual master’s degrees from Brandeis University: an M.A. in Jewish Professional Leadership from the Hornstein Program and an MBA from the Heller School, with a focus on leadership, organizational behavior, and social impact.
Prior to joining Federation, Ryan held leadership roles with the Anti-Defamation League, BBYO, Hillel, and Zeta Beta Tau Fraternity, where he developed national programs, cultivated strategic partnerships, and supported emerging leaders. In his current role, Ryan leads the Business & Professional Network, the Corporate Partnership Program, and the Economic Forum, connecting professionals and businesses to Federation’s mission and impact locally, in Israel, and around the world.
Julie Schack serves as Chief Development Officer at Milwaukee Jewish Federation, where she plays a key role in advancing the organization’s mission to strengthen and sustain Jewish life. In this position, Julie leads the Federation’s development efforts, helping to grow philanthropic support that fuels programs and services across Jewish Milwaukee.
At the Federation, Julie partners closely with colleagues, lay leaders, and donors to strengthen the annual campaign, cultivate meaningful relationships, and build a culture of generosity rooted in shared values. With more than 25 years of experience in advertising, marketing, and sales leadership, she brings a strategic and relationship-driven approach to philanthropy—often described as “sales with a soul.” Prior to joining the Federation, Julie held senior leadership roles within the Jewish community, including Director of Women’s Philanthropy and Affinities at the San Antonio Jewish Federation and Executive Director of Hillel Milwaukee, where she helped rebuild and reimagine Jewish life on campus and led award-winning fundraising initiatives.
Outside of work, Julie enjoys staying connected to the Milwaukee community she proudly calls home, as well as spending time with family and friends.