Theresa Stevens

CFRE, Executive Director Sun Prairie Public Library Foundation

Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, United States

About

Passionate about community engagement and lifelong learning, I am honored to support the mission of the Sun Prairie Public Library Foundation. In my role, I focus on building connections, cultivating resources, and championing initiatives that expand access to knowledge, programs, and services for our community. I believe libraries are more than buildings filled with books—they are hubs of innovation, inclusion, and opportunity. While many say, “The Library is the heart of the community,” I believe it’s truly the community that brings life and meaning to the Library. My work is dedicated to strengthening that bond, ensuring our Library continues to grow as a welcoming space for all. My career reflects a blend of nonprofit leadership, public service, and hands-on stewardship of the land. In addition to my work with the Foundation, I have experience as an Alder for the City of Sun Prairie, where I represented District 2 and worked to meet the needs of a growing and diverse community. I hold a B.A. from the University of Wisconsin–Platteville and am a certified Master Gardener through UW-Extension, combining academic knowledge with practical expertise to serve both people and place. At the heart of everything I do is a belief that communities grow stronger when we invest in shared spaces, meaningful connections, and opportunities to learn together.

Experience

  • Executive Director at Sun Prairie Public Library Foundation
    Sep 2021 - Present · 4 yrs 10 mos

    A thoughtful, strategic and compassionate approach to development in support of our community’s greatest treasure, our library.

  • Orchardist at Door Creek Orchard
    Oct 2015 - Present · 10 yrs 9 mos

    - Plant, prune, maintain, and excavate fruit trees on 10 acres - Scout for pests and disease and consider Integrated Pest Management controls - General farm maintenance - Provide customer service during the Pick Your Own season - Directions on the property, educate about 85+ varieties of apples grown on-site, process sales - Make cider weekly during September and October - Grade apples -Train new employees during the fall season

  • Alder District 2 City of Sun Prairie at City of Sun Prairie
    Apr 2018 - Apr 2022 · 4 yrs 1 mo

    Representing District 2 and the growing community of Sun Prairie.

  • University of Wisconsin Foundation (2 yrs 6 mos)
    • Senior Development Program Specialist
      Jul 2021 - Sep 2021 · 3 mos

    • Development Program Specialist
      Apr 2019 - Jul 2021 · 2 yrs 4 mos

  • Blogger at DairylandCook Blog
    Mar 2014 - Sep 2021 · 7 yrs 7 mos

    Dairyland Cook is a blog focused on Wisconsin cooking, healthy meals, great spots to visit both to eat and enjoy the natural beauty which makes this state so unique.