Boys & Girls Club Blog

In recognition of more than thirty years of transformative service, Kurt and Judie Koeppler of Oshkosh have officially been inducted into the Wisconsin Boys & Girls Clubs Hall of Fame.

The Koepplers’ unwavering commitment, visionary leadership, deep philanthropy, and passionate advocacy have helped shape the growth, stability, and long-term impact of the Boys & Girls Club of Oshkosh, benefiting thousands of youth and families throughout the region.

Their induction in the Hall of Fame took place at the Hall of Fame Celebration dinner on Oct. 25, the opening event of the three-day Boys & Girls Clubs of Wisconsin Area Council Leadership Conference this year held in Fond du Lac.

“Together, Kurt and Judie embody the spirit and mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs movement,” said Tracy Ogden, CEO of Boys & Girls Club of Oshkosh.

“Their decades of volunteerism, philanthropy, advocacy, and servant leadership have created a lasting legacy not only within the Boys & Girls Club of Oshkosh, but across the broader Boys & Girls Clubs community in Wisconsin,” Ogden said. “Their positive impact will continue to be felt for generations, and they are exceptionally deserving of this honor in joining the Boys & Girls Clubs of Wisconsin Hall of Fame.”

Judie Koeppler’s relationship with the Club spans more than 35 years, beginning in 1990 when she was invited to serve as Treasurer for the Capital Campaign to construct the Radford Club, the first new location for the organization since its founding in 1970. What began as essential volunteer leadership during a pivotal moment in the Club’s history evolved into over three decades of support. Judie has remained a steadfast advocate and supporter for the Club, from speaking at its annual Afternoon Tea events to inspiring community involvement and bolstering support for its area youth. She has played a pivotal role in the consistent redesign and ongoing improvement of Club spaces, ensuring that facilities remain welcoming, highly functional, and inspiring environments for young members.

Kurt Koeppler has served on the Board of Directors for more than 26 years, one of the organization’s most dedicated champions. His leadership touches every facet of the organization, ranging from strategic planning and capital development to direct family assistance. Together with Judie, Kurt has made significant contributions to four major capital campaigns, every annual campaign, numerous special projects, and extensive in-kind donations.

Beyond Oshkosh, Kurt served as the Board liaison for the Boys & Girls Club of the Tri-County Area, guiding the organization through crucial developmental milestones, including the successful build of a new facility in Berlin. He also directly oversaw the 2007 construction of the Teen Center and managed multiple capital renovation projects that expanded opportunities for area youth.

“I have always felt that I’ve gotten much more in return than what I have given,” Kurt Koeppler said. “Anytime you’re having a bad day, go to the Club and watch the smiles on all the kids there. It will brighten your day. One of my favorite parts of my involvement has been the chance to meet some of the best people I have ever known. The kids make it special, and so do the volunteers, staff, and families who show up for them year after year.”

“Since working on the capital campaign in 1990, it has been amazing watching the Club grow into what it is today,” Judie Koeppler said. “It’s also great talking to the staff members who make everything happen to positively impact the lives of kids. We’re so honored by this recognition.”

Since 2018, the Boys & Girls Club of Oshkosh has had seven inductees into the Wisconsin Boys & Girls Club Hall of Fame: Ron Lampe, Jamie Wilcox, Sue Ackerman, Lorie Bunke, Dave Elbing, Tracy Ogden and the Hyde Family, which includes Doug and Chrys Hyde and Peg Wachtel.