Playworks Wisconsin executive director Deborah Lukovich said she is leaving the Milwaukee-based nonprofit organization and will help with the search for a new leader to steer its growth plans over the next three years.
Playworks Wisconsin, the regional arm of the national nonprofit, works with more than 60 schools to improve their recess culture, promote safe play and increase students’ social and emotional learning.
Lukovich, who has led the organization since 2015, said it’s time for a new leader to help the organization reach its goal of serving 200 schools by the end of 2020.
“It’s a very exciting time for a new leader with fresh energy and perspective to lead the region to achieve its aim and plan for what’s next,” she said.
Playworks primarily serves Milwaukee Public Schools, but has expanded its programming in recent years to Waukesha, Watertown, Mequon/Thiensville and Brown Deer districts. The organization provides year-round, on-site support services, as well as professional development workshops for schools and youth organizations.
During Lukovich’s tenure, Playworks has received grants from Zilber Family Foundation, Brady Corp., the Milwaukee Bucks and Milwaukee Succeeds.
Lukovich said she plans to pursue a career in psychology. She is working with an advisory board to search for a new executive director.
“Getting the opportunity to lead an organization with not only a great mission but with the research to prove it does what it says it does is a gift,” she said. “I am so grateful I was able to take everything I had learned
during my 20 years of community engagement experience and focus on one amazing organization.”
