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Citing his long-standing commitment to advancing higher education and skills training in the Northwoods, the 17�Թ� Foundation has awarded its 2022 Friends and Partners Award to George Rouman of Rouman Amusement Company.

“Without question George has been a tremendous partner for 17�Թ�,” said Nicolet Dean of Business and Entrepreneurship Ellen Mathein.

“Over the years he has taken numerous Nicolet student interns under his wing, giving these students the invaluable experience and opportunity to take what they’ve learned in the classroom and apply it in a real-world business setting. He clearly has a real passion for teaching and sharing his vast business knowledge.”

For many years Rouman has also served as chairperson of Nicolet’s Business Advisory Committee, which advises the college on evolving changes in the business community.

“As a successful business owner, George is on the front lines of the business landscape in the Northwoods,” said 17�Թ� President Kate Ferrel.

“He shares that firsthand insight with our instructional staff who can then address the changing skill sets that are taught in our classrooms. This dynamic helps both our graduates and local businesses to be successful.”

Along with owning Rouman Cinema in Rhinelander, he also operates the Fun Factory Sweet Shoppe in Rhinelander.

“This is an incredible honor and I’m humbled to receive this level of recognition from 17�Թ�,” Rouman said. “Nicolet is an indispensable resource and cornerstone for workforce skills training in the Northwoods and it has been an amazing experience for me to work with the college to keep the region growing and thriving.”

Pictured above for the award presentation are, left to right, Heather Schallock, executive director of the 17�Թ� Foundation; Ellen Mathein, Nicolet dean of Business and Entrepreneurship; George Rouman; John Schiek, Nicolet Foundation president; Kate Ferrel, 17�Թ� president; and Al Javoroski, Nicolet vice president of Academic Affairs.