Get to Know Joe Sheehan
Let’s find common ground
Background
After 38 years in education and community involvement, Joe believes Democrats and Republicans must talk about Wisconsin’s issues. “How are you going to have compromise when you don’t know what others are thinking?” One of seven children, he quickly learned to work with others, a trait he carried into professional life with his core “We is the way to go, not us against them” philosophy. Joe holds a Ph.D. from Marquette in Educational Administration, a master’s in the same field from University of Houston, and two bachelor degrees from Michigan State.
“It’s time that state legislators work together again to solve Wisconsin’s problems.”
Joe Sheehan
Leadership
He spent nearly two decades as superintendent of the Sheboygan Area School District (SASD), building on a philosophy that “You don’t have to do a four-year college degree.” For high school students, he added a Lakeshore Technical College associate’s degree in multiple technical fields, creating career pathways for students who are not college-bound and a pool of trained new employees for local manufacturers. “There are lots of technical jobs within the community.” More than 100 high school students participate annually in Red Raider Manufacturing, which raised $10 million in local support.
Jobs and the Economy
After retiring, Joe was recruited to become executive director of the Sheboygan County Economic Development Corporation. At SCEDC, he worked collaboratively with employers, government agencies, funders and other people interested in new jobs and a stronger local economy. He has the knowledge and skills to assist area businesses facing issues.
Family and Community
Joe has been married for 22 years to his wife Barb, and has four children and two grandsons. He helps coach youth baseball for his 11-year-old grandson. He regularly walks the family cocker spaniel, Macy.
Joe is a member of Kiwanis, volunteers for various community causes, and serves on the board of Elwood H. May Environmental Park.
