Thomas Perz
From Antigo, Wisconsin, Tom Perz attended X-ray School in Madison, where he met his future wife, Mary. A nursing position for Mary moved them to Milwaukee after graduation. Within months, Tom was convinced he needed additional formal education. He worked in a factory for one year, using his X-ray tech skills, before enrolling at UWM in 1967. He earned his degree in Finance in 1970 and accepted a position at Ernst & Young. Five years later, he became president of St. Francis Bank (1975-2007). He also served on a number of prominent nonprofit boards.
Impact
Tom credits his career success to the education he received at UWM. The university provided him with a great working opportunity and today he gives back out of appreciation. “I had to work my way through school to pay for my education. If I can help someone else accomplish his or her goals, I would like to do that.”