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Dashers Return to DSHA for Career Day Panel
On March 3, DSHA hosts its annual Carla La Valle Olle, HA '60, Career & College Readiness Day. During this annual event, Dashers hear from alumnae about their career journeys and turning passions into professions. In addition to smaller breakout sessions, students will attend a panel in the Robert & Marien Hansen Family Fine Arts Theatre. This year, DSHA welcomes four alumnae to the panel: Maredithe Meyer, DSHA '13; Lindsey Townsley Birdsall, DSHA '07; Nyama Sillah, MD, DSHA '01; and Katie Spaulding Wessel, DSHA '02.
Maredithe Meyer, DSHA '13, Moderator
Associate Editor, BizTimes Media
Maredithe Meyer, DSHA '13, is Associate Editor at BizTimes Media, where she has been a key voice in covering the region’s retail, restaurant, entertainment, and tourism sectors since 2018. With a journalism degree from Marquette University, Maredithe plays a key role in shaping the publication’s content — from reporting and editing to managing editorial workflow and ensuring accuracy across platforms. Her work reflects a deep understanding of local business trends and community dynamics, and she has been recognized for excellence in business journalism.
Maredithe brings energy and insight into conversations about media, business storytelling, and regional economic trends. Outside of her newsroom responsibilities, she stays connected to her community as a board member of the Milwaukee Press Club. She also coached JV field hockey at DSHA from 2014 to 2021 and remains involved as a volunteer.
Lindsey Townsley Birdsall, DSHA '07
Senior Director of Marketing & Creative, Wantable
At Wantable, Lindsey Townsley Birdsall, DSHA '07, leads brand strategy and marketing initiatives that drive growth and customer engagement. Since joining the company in 2014, she has helped shape Wantable’s evolution from start-up to a nationally recognized retail brand, guiding campaigns, product launches, and creative direction.
With a background in communications and more than a decade of marketing experience, Lindsey brings expertise in brand storytelling, retail innovation, and collaborative leadership, offering practical insights into building strong brands in a competitive marketplace.
Nyama Sillah, MD, DSHA '01
Plastic & Reconstrutive Surgeon, Aurora Healthcare
Dr. Nyama Sillah, MD, DSHA '01, is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon who specializes in helping patients restore form and function after injury, illness, or surgery, as well as performing cosmetic procedures that build confidence and well-being. Through years of rigorous education and hands-on surgical training, she has developed expertise in complex procedures while maintaining a strong focus on compassionate, patient-centered care.
Dr. Sillah shares what it really takes to pursue a career in medicine — from high school preparation and choosing a college major to medical school, residency, and board certification. She offers honest insight into the dedication, resilience, and curiosity required to become a surgeon, along with encouragement for students interested in science, healthcare, and making a meaningful impact on people’s lives.
Katie Spaulding Wessel, DSHA '03
Owner, Milwaukee Pretzel Company
Katie Spaulding Wessel, DSHA '03, is the co-founder of Milwaukee Pretzel Company, a fast-growing food brand known for its authentic Bavarian-style soft pretzels. Inspired by time spent living in Munich, Katie returned home with a passion for bringing traditional German pretzels to Wisconsin. What began as small test batches in a family kitchen quickly evolved into a thriving company supplying handcrafted pretzels to customers in 49 states.
As an entrepreneur, Katie shares insights on turning inspiration into action, building a brand from the ground up, scaling a food business while maintaining quality, and navigating the challenges of small business ownership. Her story blends international inspiration, Midwest grit, and hands-on leadership — making her an engaging and relatable speaker for audiences interested in entrepreneurship, food innovation, and women in business.
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