HOOAH WI Leadership

Scott Conklin

Vice President

Scott Conklin was born on July 17, 1981, in Jackson, Michigan, and spent his childhood in Marquette, Michigan. After graduating from high school in 1999, he joined the Air Force and later served in the Wisconsin Army National Guard. Scott is a proud veteran who served his country with honor.

Currently residing in Wisconsin, Scott is happily married to his wife Sarah Conklin since October 17, 2020, and they have a lovable dog named Chevy. Scott is passionate about motorcycles and is a certified coach, helping people get their motorcycle license.

Scott has held various positions in different companies, including Dedicated Systems, Schneider National, and American TV & Appliance. He is currently the Director of Operations at Master Fleet LLC, where he oversees the company’s operations.

Scott enjoys spending time with his family, riding motorcycles, and outdoor activities. He is a determined and hardworking individual who is committed to achieving his goals and helping others along the way.

Felicia Roddy

Treasurer

My name is Felicia Roddy, I am honored to be serving as Treasurer for H.O.O.A.H. WI. Growing up with family and friends serving in the Army, Air Force and Marine Corps, I have always had a deep respect and appreciation for those who have served in our military. I was introduced to this amazing organization and its mission in 2021 through my husband Dean, who served in the Marine Corps, and is also a current board member for H.O.O.A.H WI.

Professionally, I am the Director of Finance and Administration for the Fox Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau in Appleton, WI. The scope of my job aligns seamlessly with my position as Treasurer for H.O.O.A.H. WI. I hope to use my experience to help the organization stay financially strong and focused on helping veterans in need through our programs, resources and support systems.

Our time at home is spent raising our four teenagers and building up our small ranchette. We have horses, dogs, cats and ducks. In our spare time we enjoy golfing, kayaking and concerts with friends…but really who has spare time with all these pets???

I am excited to get more involved with the charity, to make an impact, and grow within the organization.

“Stop limiting your potential. Realize that there’s an unlimited amount of things you can do with your life.” – Sonya Parker

Rhonda Ferrel

SECRETARY

1. How did you learn about HOOAH WI initially?

I first learned about HOOAH WI through social media promoting the Freedom Freefall event. My application to participate was accepted and I excitedly jumped with HOOAH in 2018.

2. What event(s) have you volunteered for HOOAH WI? Tell us about the experience and the effect the day(s) had on you.

I have volunteered with both the Veteran Suicide Awareness March and the Swingset program. Regardless of the program or capacity in which you’re volunteering, there is an incredible sense of appreciation for what the service member, veteran and their family and friends have experienced. Most enjoy sharing their stories which helps create a unique bond. It’s humbling to learn of the sacrifices so many have made, both those who have or still do wear the uniform, as well as those who support them. Many will thank HOOAH for what they’ve provided, but as a volunteer, I have received just as much from the participants.

3. What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering for a HOOAH WI event?

Unequivocally, DO IT!! It doesn’t matter if you have experience directly or indirectly with military service. At our core, HOOAH is about helping others. Anyone can help make that difference.

4. How long have you been a HOOAH WI volunteer? What keeps you coming back?

I’ve only been a HOOAH volunteer for a couple of years, but have intentions to continue volunteering and get involved in many more of their programs. I believe in their mission and have seen the impact made in WI communities. I want to play a part in continuing and expanding that impact.

5. Are you a veteran yourself? Could you share some of your background?

Yes, I am a veteran. I joined the Army National Guard in 1986 between my junior and senior years in high school. I held various positions in maintenance, transportation, supply, JAG office and was trained as a combat medic and master fitness trainer. In 2001, I transferred to the Army Reserve to become an Observer-Controller-Trainer until 2004. I had one deployment in 1990-91 for Desert Storm.

6. Do you have a military family history? Would you share your connection to the military services? I have a strong military presence on both sides of my family. While predominantly Army, other branches have been represented as well, through my soon to be son-in-law, cousins, uncles and other ancestors, including POWs at Fort Breendonk in Belgium during WWII.

7. What made you want to be a board member for HOOAH WI?

I’ve always had a passion for servicing in and for the military. As a young adult, I had every intention to serve a minimum of 20 years. After health reasons prohibited me from reenlisting, I’ve sought other ways to support those who are serving or have served. I believe in HOOAH’s mission and would like to do everything I can to support the organization and expand their presence throughout the State.

8. What other volunteering do you do?

I’ve always been a strong believer in giving back and helping others. I’ve held active roles with United Way, Habitat for Humanity, ABCD (After Breast Cancer Diagnosis), Avon’s Breast Cancer Walk and with Youth Mental Health First Aid. I was a board member for the previous Hope Cancer Connection, and have held a number of volunteer roles with Little Pink Houses of Hope, to include Retreat Director.

Alex Hoffman

BOARD MEMBER

My name is Alex Hoffman. I was born and raised in Wisconsin. Originally, from Oshkosh, now living in the Green Bay area for the past 10 years.

I have two brothers, one of them being a fraternal twin, which created both a strong competitiveness and desire to constantly interact with others and the community.

I graduated with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from UWGB in 2014 and a Master’s in Business Administration from the UWO in 2020. I am currently enrolled at the University of Wisconsin pursing a Master’s of Science in Clinical Health Informatics.

I have worked for the Department of Veterans Affairs since 2018 in various roles and have found it personally rewarding serving Veterans and their families. As a result of personal and professional experiences, I’ve developed a desire and goal to reduce Veteran suicide and aid Veterans, active-duty service members, and their families in any way possible, no matter how large or how small the act. Through the Brown County Volunteer Center and personal connections – I found H.O.O.A.H WI and their mission in aiding Veterans and reducing Veteran suicide. I began volunteering with H.O.O.A.H. WI in 2023, including the Veteran Suicide Awareness March.

I enjoy volunteering and being active in the Northeast Wisconsin community. I am an active volunteer for the Miracle League of Green Bay, CASA of Brown County, and Brown County Health and Human Services. In addition to volunteering, I enjoy sporting events including tailgating with friends and family, many of whom are Veterans. My favorite teams are the Jacksonville Jaguars, Brewers, Badgers, Bucks, and occasionally the Packers. I also enjoy spending time at my family’s cabin in Tigerton, WI, and spending time with my nephews.

It is a privilege to be part of an organization and team who are dedicated to improving the lives of Veterans and creating a positive impact in their community.

Meagan Cooper

BOARD MEMBER

Christopher “Vinny” Vincent

BOARD MEMBER

My name is Christopher Vincent but all my friends just call me Vinny. I was born and raised here in northeast Wisconsin and still call it home today.  After graduating high school in 1986 I went into the mechanical trades and worked as a millwright for several large companies. Working with numerous veterans of all ages and listening to their stories both good and bad, I saw there was a need to help them. I started out by adopting a veteran and their family at Christmas time. My support of our veterans grew from there, working in downtown Green Bay for a short period of time I got to know quite a few of the homeless veterans that gathered in the park every morning and thought to myself that they deserve far better than this. Fast forwarding I now focus on helping to prevent veteran suicides and I do this through the teaching of fly fishing and fly tying. I have run a program both on my own and through another non profit. I have seen the transformation of veterans come full circle from the dark side to looking forward towards tomorrow and it is the reason I keep looking for more ways to help prevent veteran suicides. I am excited to be a part of HOOAH WI and thankful for opportunity to help more of our veterans with this outstanding organization.

William Kocken

Past President

I was born in March of 1984 in Green Bay, WI where I have spent the vast majority of my life. I am a graduate of West De Pere High School.  Growing up I was active in the Boy Scouts of America having reached the rank of eagle scout. I was a two sport athlete through high school in both soccer and wrestling to include lettering all four years and being the team captain of the wrestling team my senior year.

I enlisted into the Army National Guard on March 28, 2002, at the age of 18 while I was in my junior year of high school. I went on my 1st Deployment in August 2005 for 12 months to Iraq. During that deployment I earned the Combat Infantryman Badge.  That badge was received because of direct contact with the enemy through IED and small arms ambush resulting in the loss of two Airmen. On that deployment we conducted combat patrols and logistical convoy security.

When we were put on alert for our second deployment I was selected over my peers to come onto orders as a full-time National Guardsman before the deployment to help bring up the unit’s readiness level and prepare them for the upcoming mission.  Shortly before the deployment in 2009 I was hired as an AGR (Active Guard Reserve) Service Member. We deployed in April 2009 for 10 months again to Iraq. During that deployment we conducted primarily PSD operations.

I deployed for a third time to Afghanistan in 2019 as the Platoon Sergeant for the Quick Reaction Force for all of TAAC-EAST.  This operation included supporting troops in enemy contact, downed aircraft recovery, and any other immediate needs in the region. Half way through this deployment I was moved into the Tactical Operations Center in Tarin Kowt where I tracked the area battle field, managed base defenses, supported Special Forces operations in the area, and controlled numerous air assets on a daily basis.

Between these deployments I have been working as an AGR. I attended the Army’s Ranger School under class 02-13 and went straight through earning my Ranger Tab on January 25, 2013.  I have also earned the Army Parachutist Badge, Pathfinder Badge, and Expert Infantryman’s Badge. I was selected to represent the Army National Guard at the 2014 Best Ranger Competition where my partner and I placed 19th overall. I am currently a Sergeant First Class working out of Waupun, WI as the Readiness NCO and Platoon Sergeant for A Co 2-127th IN.

I have been a part of numerous charity events to help raise money for an assortment of organizations. I co-founded 4th HOOAH WI in 2013 and sat in the roles of president and vice president of the veterans organization. 4th HOOAH WI is a chapter of a national organization that has helped thousands of veterans across Wisconsin through a multitude of programs and services. I am currently the lead organizer for the annual Veterans Suicide Awareness March

In 2018 I completed my Business Admin Bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay.

I have competed in numerous physical competitions to include setting the Guinness World Record for fastest marathon with a 100lbs pack in 2018. I have also completed there Wisconsin Ironman races, one of which was while carrying a 40lbs ruck for the marathon portion to raise awareness. I led the team that won the 2019 Bataan Memorial Death March National Guard Heavy Division. I also earned the opportunity to compete at the World’s Toughest Mudder in 2011, where I was able to complete three laps on the course.

I have received the Order of Saint Maurice, Thomas E Wortham IV Achievement Award, Green Bay Packers Community Quarterback Award, and Greater Green Bay Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals Future 15 Award. Through my military career I have also received many other awards and recognition.