Heritage Hill Welcomes Ted Phernetton as New Executive Director

The Staff and Board of Directors of Heritage Hill State Historical Park recently welcomed Ted Phernetton as their new Executive Director.  Ted officially began as Executive Director on October 22nd of 2024.

“Ted is a calming influence, intelligent, dedicated, and has proven his ability to organize and direct in the several organizations with which he has been involved,” said Heritage Hill Board of Directors President, Dan Katers. “We look forward to his leadership as the park moves forward.”

We had the pleasure of interviewing Ted for this article, and are happy to share those questions and answers here.

GBNN: Prior to coming to Heritage Hill, what positions have you held – and with what businesses or charities?

Phernetton: Just prior to coming to Heritage Hill I was the Director of Health and Human Services for Waupaca County, Wisconsin. I have held positions as the Executive Director and President of Catholic Charities for the Diocese of Green Bay, and as Executive Director of Cerebral Palsy, Inc., located in Green Bay.

GBNN: What is your educational background?

Phernetton: I have a Bachelors of Science Degree from the University of Wisconsin River Falls and a Masters of Business Administration from Cardinal Stritch College in Milwaukee.

GBNN: What drew you to consider Heritage Hill and the Executive Director position?

Phernetton: I have a strong desire to serve our community and have done so in the positions that I have held. Because history is the foundation for strong, vibrant communities, the opportunity at Heritage Hill offered an exciting way to continue to serve. Heritage Hill is a true community treasure and the privilege of being a part of it was something that provided a lot of weight to the decision.

GBNN: What are your short-term and long term goals for Heritage Hill?

Phernetton: In the short term, the goal is to support staff in the difficult work that they do to keep the Park operating in a way that provides the community with the best possible experience possible while bringing history to life. In addition, in the short run, like many non-profit organizations in our community, there is a need to focus on ways to ensure sustainability.

In the long run, short term goals continue but are coupled with long term goals to expand Heritage Hill’s experiences to include historical recognition of the importance of the Menominee and Indigenous People in our region, acknowledging the cultural additions and changes throughout the 20th Century, recognizing the importance of the faith community throughout our history, increasing the interpreter experiences throughout the Park, developing strategies to increase repeat guests, and working to have Heritage Hill recognized as a regional destination for visitors.    

GBNN: Tell us a little about your personal life — you and your family.

Phernetton: I am married with two adult daughters and two grandchildren. I am not originally from Green Bay, but my wife, the former Bonnie Kratz is. Her brother, the late Fr. Conrad Kratz, O. Praem., was a Norbertine priest and known by many in the area.

GBNN: When you’re not “at work” what do you enjoy doing?

Phernetton: I enjoy spending time with my family. My daughters are nice people whom I love very much and enjoy their company. I also adore my grandchildren, they are 15 and 9, and we enjoy our time together. I can’t imagine life without them. I also enjoy spending time in our convertible with my wife having leisurely day trips.

GBNN: Lastly, is there anything else you’d like to add?

Phernetton: During COVID I began playing Santa for kids via ZOOM, offering them an opportunity to talk directly to Santa without having to leave their homes. I do it just for fun and have provided the experience for kids in multiple states.

The Green Bay News Network joins the staff and directors of Heritage Hill in welcoming Ted to his new position. We encourage our members and readers to visit Heritage Hill, say hello to Ted, and help preserve this “true community treasure” by becoming members!