Join us for a presentation and conversation on September 11, 2025, where we’ll take you behind the scenes of the Shechem Project, one of the most impactful community developments in Milwaukee. From the Idea to Funding and Construction, this event will explore the journey of creating Shechem—a project that has transformed the local landscape and brought new opportunities to the community.
Discussion Panel
Greg Marshall
Chief Storyteller at CI Design, Inc.
Greg brings a wealth of storytelling experience and will guide the conversation, making sure you walk away with a deeper understanding of the Shechem journey.
Ashley Thomas
Executive Officer at Hope Street Ministries Inc.
As the Executive Director of Hope Street Ministry, Ashley Thomas has spent nearly a decade leading efforts to support individuals and families in Milwaukee. She’s been a key advocate for the Shechem project, making sure it aligns with the needs of the community. Ashley’s background in fundraising, community outreach, and operations has played a huge role in bringing Shechem to life, ensuring that it’s not just a building but a space that can empower those who need it most.
Mike Duffek
President at Duffek Construction
Mike Duffek, the founder and president of Duffek Construction, brings a hands-on, relationship-driven approach to every project. With years of experience overseeing complex builds, Mike played a crucial role in the construction of Shechem, managing the on-the-ground challenges and ensuring everything was executed according to plan. His commitment to quality and his team-oriented approach helped make Shechem a reality, proving that with the right leadership, even the most ambitious projects can come together smoothly.
Nick Carnahan
Partner at Galbraith Carnahan Architects
As a partner at Galbraith Carnahan Architects, Nick Carnahan has spent over 15 years shaping meaningful designs that blend innovation and community impact. He played a key role in designing Shechem, where he worked to ensure the building would serve as both a functional space and a reflection of the community it’s in. Nick’s focus on sustainable architecture and design that speaks to the cultural and environmental context of a space has been a driving force behind Shechem, making it a project that not only meets the needs of today but also inspires for years to come.
Brandon Reinke
Architect at Galbraith Carnahan Architects
Brandon Reinke is a project architect at Galbraith Carnahan Architects who has a knack for transforming ideas into detailed, functional designs. He was involved in every phase of the Shechem project, ensuring that the vision came to life while keeping things practical and on track. Brandon’s attention to detail and ability to manage the balance between creativity and construction made him an integral part of the team, helping to turn Shechem into the vibrant, well-thought-out space it is today.
Additional Details
Why Attend?
This event is a unique opportunity to hear firsthand from the team who brought Shechem to life. Whether you’re a community advocate, developer, or simply curious about how impactful spaces are created, this event offers valuable insights into the complex process of turning vision into reality.
What You’ll Learn:
- The Idea: How Shechem was conceived and the initial vision behind the project.
- Funding: The challenges and strategies involved in securing the necessary financial support to make the project possible.
- Construction: The real-world challenges faced during the build phase and how the team overcame them to bring the design to life.
Who Should Attend?
This event is perfect for:
- Construction industry professionals interested in the complexities of large-scale community projects.
- Community Leaders and Advocates who want to understand how thoughtful design can shape neighborhoods.
- Anyone passionate about architecture, urban development, and creating spaces that make a positive impact on the community.
Don’t Miss Out!
The Shechem Project is more than just a building—it’s a testament to the power of thoughtful, community-driven design. Join us for an engaging discussion that will leave you inspired and equipped with insights you can apply to your own work. RSVP today and be part of the conversation!
