Girls Rock MKE Announces Executive Transition
MILWAUKEE – Girls Rock MKE is thrilled to announce the appointment of Hannah Pardee as its new Executive Director, effective July 1, 2026. A longtime volunteer with both Girls Rock and Ladies Rock Camps, alumna of the Ladies Rock program now active in the Milwaukee music community, and most recently, President of the Girls Rock MKE board of directors, Ms. Pardee brings a wealth of experience, dedication, and passion for the organization’s mission and values.
Hannah Pardee
Girls Rock MKE, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing a supportive community for girls, women, and gender expansive youth and adults to learn, grow, and express themselves through music, held its first week-long day camp for 30 girls in 2013, under the direction of Valeri Lucks (Pie, Inc.) and Ashley Smith (One Trick Pony). In the 13 years since, Girls Rock Camp has snowballed into two sold-out sessions each serving 60 youth campers (ages 8-17); Ladies Rock Camp was introduced in 2015 and has now expanded to two sessions, each serving 30 adult campers (ages 18+). The mostly volunteer-run organization is pleased to be in a position to pay Girls Rock Camp’s lead band coaches, lead instrument instructors, and Camp Directors a modest stipend for their time this year.
This announcement comes at a crucial moment of transition for Girls Rock MKE. After an incredible season of revitalization and growth under outgoing Executive Director, Mary Joy Hickey, the organization is currently in the process of transitioning to the name Let’s Get Loud MKE, which will go into effect on January 1, 2027. “We are incredibly grateful to Mary Joy for her contributions as Executive Director, and over the past decade as a volunteer,” said D Kirschling, the new board President.
Mary Joy Hickey
“We’re so excited to see what Mary Joy does next, and wish her great success with her new venture,” said Ms. Kirschling. “Hannah, who worked closely with Mary Joy over the last two years, is an ideal fit to lead the organization forward. With her enthusiasm for social impact and commitment to creative leadership, the board is extremely confident in her ability to provide a magical experience for our campers this summer and beyond.” With sustained strong leadership and continued support from the community, the organization will continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of Milwaukee’s girls, women, and gender expansive youth and adults.
The mission of Girls Rock MKE is to empower individuals of marginalized identities and diverse experiences through music education and performance. To find more information about Girls Rock MKE, follow @girlsrockmke on social media or visit girlsrockmke.org.
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