The Northeast Wisconsin Immunization Coalition (NEWIC) was launched in November 2000 following the region’s first Immunization Symposium, led by Dr. Thomas Saari of the Wisconsin Council on Immunization Practices and Dr. Ray Strikas of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

During that inaugural event, local health leaders were inspired to form a regional coalition dedicated to strengthening immunization efforts across Northeast Wisconsin.

With leadership from Diane Cappozzo (Fond du Lac County Health Department) and Kathleen Sprangers (City of Appleton Health Department), and collaboration from state immunization staff, vaccine manufacturers, and local healthcare providers, NEWIC was officially formed.

Interest generated at the first symposium confirmed strong community support for a local coalition. Through a series of planning meetings, NEWIC established its goals, formed a governing board of public and private partners, and secured 501(c)(3) nonprofit status.

From the beginning, the coalition has worked to eliminate vaccine-preventable diseases by:

  • Increasing immunization rates

  • Removing barriers to vaccination

  • Educating consumers and providers

  • Coordinating efforts across local, state, and national partners

NEWIC has remained committed to being Northeast Wisconsin’s trusted local resource for immunization education, collaboration, and advocacy.

As we celebrate this milestone, we honor the partners, providers, and champions who have helped shape our success—and we look forward to continuing our mission: working toward a future free of vaccine-preventable diseases

Three Key Accomplishments Over 25 Years

1. Sustained Biannual Immunization Symposiums

For 25 years, NEWIC has hosted immunization symposiums that provide critical vaccine updates, continuing education credits, and valuable networking opportunities for healthcare professionals across the region.

2. Immunization Champion Recognition

NEWIC proudly recognizes Immunization Champions each year.

Any NEWIC member or non-member may honor an individual who demonstrates exceptional dedication to improving immunization rates through education, advocacy, and leadership.

This recognition celebrates those making a meaningful difference in protecting communities from vaccine-preventable diseases and highlights the powerful impact of local leadership.

3. Advocacy & Systems Improvement

The coalition has supported immunization-focused legislation and championed the use of Wisconsin’s statewide immunization registry tracking system, strengthening public health infrastructure and improving vaccination coordination across the state.

In addition, NEWIC has invested in community-wide public awareness efforts — including billboard advertising campaigns — to ensure accurate, science-based immunization information reaches families where they live, work, and travel. These visible outreach initiatives help combat misinformation, increase awareness of vaccine recommendations, and reinforce the importance of staying up to date on immunizations.