Marquette Federation Elects First Male President
The local organization appointed Warner Hocker as its leader following a unanimous vote at the annual meeting.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in People
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The Marquette Federation of Women's Clubs has elected Warner Hocker as its new president, marking the first time a man has held the position. Hocker, who was nominated by Amy Cherrette, was chosen for his clubhouse advocacy.
Why it matters
The election reflects a new leadership direction for the century-old organization as it prioritizes the preservation and expanded use of its historic clubhouse. Hocker plans to transition the venue into a public social hub and rental space.
The federation recently marked the centennial anniversary of its historic clubhouse in July 2026. This 100-year milestone provides the foundation for the incoming president's revitalization efforts.
The players
Warner Hocker
He is the newly elected president of the Marquette Federation of Women's Clubs and a former garden chair for the organization.
Amy Cherrette
She is the member who formally nominated Warner Hocker for the presidency.
Sue Madden
She is the reelected treasurer of the Marquette Federation of Women's Clubs.
Luci Contois
She is the reelected house chair of the Marquette Federation of Women's Clubs.
Pam Grundstrom
She is the outgoing secretary of the organization.
The details
Warner Hocker, who previously served as the federation's garden chair, aims to continue overseeing improvements to the clubhouse grounds. He moved to Marquette in 2020 and has earned support for his approachable demeanor.
Timeline
Warner Hocker moved to Marquette in 2020.
The clubhouse centennial celebration occurred in July 2026.
Warner Hocker was elected president on October 21, 2026.
Market Landscape
The election of the federation's first male president follows the July 2026 clubhouse centennial celebration and marks a shift in organizational strategy. This leadership change signals an effort to modernize operations and increase the facility's profile as a community social hub.
Local residents can expect increased efforts to turn the federation's clubhouse into a public social and rental space. These changes may provide new opportunities for community members to host events at the historic venue.
The takeaway
The transition to a public rental model suggests a broader effort to sustain the historic building through increased community engagement. Residents should look for future announcements regarding venue rental policies and public event schedules.
Further reading
For more information on organizational changes in the area, visit the Marquette People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Mining Journal.
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