Our Team

Worker Smiling in Tractor

For more information about us, call

(608) 755-4123

LEADERSHIP TEAM

KANDU’s 100+ staff members — led by a 7-person leadership team — are dedicated to empowering our clients in employment, social, and daily activities in order to give them the opportunity to achieve their maximum potential and independence.

Kathy Hansen

Kathy Hansen

Executive Director

Julie Smith

Julie Smith

Client Services Director

Jake Reed

Jake Reed

Operations Director

Linda Diedrich

Linda Diedrich

Marketing Director

Isaiah Vance

Isaiah Vance

Client Services Compliance Director

Denise Schardt

Denise Schardt

Finance Director

Lynne sumpter

Lynne sumpter

Human Resources Director

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The KANDU Board of Directors and Endowment Board of Directors are accomplished and dedicated community leaders who guide, support, and advocate for the KANDU mission.

Michael C. Davis

Michael C. Davis

President

Nowlan Lawn LLP

Aron Bussan

Aron Bussan

Vice President

First National Bank & Trust

Matt Bordwell

Matt Bordwell

Treasurer

Summit Accounting Group

Kim Hesgard

Kim Hesgard

Secretary

Exact Sciences

Joel chappelle

Joel chappelle

President Emeritus

Food Industry Counsel

Ethan Lee

Ethan Lee

City of Janesville

Betsy Nelson

Betsy Nelson

Parent Advocate
Board Emeritus

Amanda Pellizzi

Amanda Pellizzi

Prent Corporation

Tracy Pierner, Ph.D.

Tracy Pierner, Ph.D.

Blackhawk Technical College

Rick Wilson

Rick Wilson

A-Team, Parent Advocate

MICHAEL PROSSER

MICHAEL PROSSER

Henrici’s Management Corporation

Endowment Board

Pat Lyons

Pat Lyons

President

Lycon

Prudence Harker

Prudence Harker

Vice President

LifeCircle

SHANNON KENNEDY

SHANNON KENNEDY

SASid

Connect With Us

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KANDU clients had an unforgettable weekend competing with Special Olympics Wisconsin—and they brought home some serious hardware! 🏅 We’re so proud of their hard work, team spirit, and all the camaraderie they shared on and off the field. Let’s hear it for these incredible athletes! 💙

🍷 Sip, savor, and support a great cause! Join us for Grapes & Hops 2025, KANDU’s signature tasting event featuring local wineries, craft breweries, gourmet hors d'oeuvres, live music, and a silent auction—all in support of programs that empower individuals with disabilities and ...aging adults across Southern Wisconsin.

Whether you're a wine enthusiast, beer lover, or just looking for a fun night out that means something—this is the event for you.

Every Friday, Julie—our incredible Client Services Director—leads a singalong with participants in KANDU's Adult Day Services and Memory Care program, filling the room with smiles, music, and fun.

These moments might seem simple, but they’re powerful. Singing together lights up ...memories, lifts spirits, and creates joy for our clients living with dementia and other cognitive challenges.

At KANDU, we believe in the power of community and compassion—and sometimes, a favorite old tune is all it takes to bring both to life. 💛

A heartfelt thank you to the family member of one of our amazing staff for donating art supplies to our ISP program! 🎨💛 Creative expression plays a powerful role in our clients’ growth and joy, and this thoughtful gift will be put to great use.

ISP, Minds in Motion, and Livin' and Learnin' clients visited the Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens in Rockford to see the Secret Life of Butterflies exhibit. They learned about the lifecycle of butterflies and got an up-close look at these amazing insects in their own habitat.

... ISP is a program that offers shorter work days combined with activity time for clients who are transitioning to a day services or return-to-work program. Program activities are thoughtfully designed for work skill development. You can learn more about KANDU's programs here: www.kanduindustries.com

There’s something magical about music—especially when it fills a room with laughter, movement, and joy. Clients in KANDU's Adult Day Services & Memory Care program sang their hearts out during karaoke yesterday, and we had a blast!

For older adults, especially those living ...with dementia, music isn’t just fun—it’s therapeutic. It sparks memories, encourages social connection, and boosts emotional well-being in ways few other activities can.

At KANDU, we believe every day should feel meaningful. In our Adult Day Services and Memory Care program, clients are treated like family in a safe, accessible, home-like environment. With support from our trained professionals, they enjoy enriching activities, personalized care, and the kind of connection that brings dignity and joy to every moment.

Looking for compassionate daytime care for your loved one? We’re here to help. 💛

📞 Call us to schedule a tour or learn more: 608-755-4123
🌐 https://www.kanduindustries.com/programs-and-services/adult-day-memory-care/