Hi there, friend! 

Jan and her husband

Living in the Fox Valley and surrounding areas, you know it’s the kind of place where people greet you with a smile and stories unfold on every corner. Lucky for me, storytelling isn’t just a skill; it’s a passion. Hi, I’m Jan Padron, and I’m thrilled to introduce myself as the Community Foundation’s new Digital Marketing Manager. I can’t wait to dive into this role and share our community’s impactful stories, each one a unique and compelling narrative. 

So, who am I? 

Professionally, I’ve been telling stories since 1999, when I started my career as a public relations specialist at FH&K, a former Neenah-based marketing company. In those days, PR was all about press releases and news clippings. Then, social media came along, and I was lucky to grow with it. Over the years, I’ve not only told stories but also mastered the art of digital marketing, including SEO, content creation, and digital storytelling that connects with audiences and drives action. 

I’ve worked on fascinating projects, from crafting campaigns about driverless forklifts to showcasing how a coin laundry can transform a community. Along the way, I earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Lakeland College, which helped pave the way for roles with amazing nonprofits. Most recently, I served as Marketing Communications Director at the National Railroad Museum and Marketing Manager for CESA 6. Let’s say I’ve had my fair share of adventures with Polar Express magic—and even my cat Sheldon’s obsession with trains. 

Meet Sheldon and Milo 

Jan’s cat, Sheldon

Here’s a fun tidbit about Sheldon: He joined our family as a tiny six-week-old kitten discovered on the National Railroad Museum grounds. Like his namesake, Sheldon Cooper from The Big Bang Theory, he’s brilliant, quirky, and loves trains. Our dog Milo is definitely the Leonard of the pair—tolerating his brother’s antics with endless patience and charm. 

Jan’s dog, Milo

At home in Ripon, Wisconsin, my husband, Jason, and I embrace small-town living with our fur babies. The Fox Valley region has a special kind of warmth—the people, the culture, and even the coffee reminds me of the comfort of a purring cat on your lap or a snuggly puppy by your side. This community truly feels like home. 

Life Outside the Office 

Beyond work, I’m an overachieving auntie to two nieces and four nephews (plus a growing honorary lineup). They bring so much joy and adventure to my life. Family means everything to me, and storytelling doesn’t stop when I clock out—it also spills into my personal life. I love sharing tips and stories about beauty products, the books I devour, and the little joys of Wisconsin living. 

Jan with her niece and nephew

Whether it’s a Ren Faire outing with my husband or my 4 a.m. walks, life here is full of moments worth sharing. And yes, early mornings sometimes bring surprises—like a skunk crossing my path, reminding me that nature has a sense of humor. 

What excites me most about my role as the Digital Marketing Manager is the opportunity to share stories that matter—stories about the incredible impact our donors and partners make in the community. It’s not just about raising awareness; it’s about inspiring others to make a difference. I’m thrilled to be part of a team dedicated to community engagement and making a real, lasting change. 

I look forward to celebrating the people, projects, and passions that shape our community. Together, we can create real, lasting change—and I’m so excited to be part of that journey.