People

Questioning the Locals: Allyson Wisniewski

free-wheelin’ discussions with local folks

V1 Staff, photos by Andrea Paulseth |

Allyson Wisniewski is no stranger to the Chippewa Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, since she served as the Tourism Director for 10 years previously, but since November 2022 she’s taken a new role: Chamber President & CEO. She is passionately leading the Chamber in order to continue to foster and support the local business community in Chippewa Falls and is excited to leave her legacy on the community. 


Working at the Chamber provides us an opportunity to really get to know our community and access businesses that may not typically be open to the public.

What are you most passionate about?

Connecting people and sharing the things that make Chippewa Falls so special.

What place in town considers you a “regular”?

Irvine Park & Zoo and Lake Wissota State Park Throughout the seasons I look to enjoy the natural beauty that exists in our corner of the world.

What’s your favorite local festival?

Chippewa Falls Oktoberfest because I like to polka and the Cuckoo’s Nest is so yummy!

What is your favorite piece of local trivia?

In the movie Titanic, Jack Dawson mentions Lake Wissota, but the lake was created AFTER the Titanic sank.

What sort of economic development would you like to see in our area?

Economic development comes in all shapes and sizes. I am most inspired by the entrepreneurs who work hard every day to provide goods and services in the Chippewa Falls area. As they succeed and grow, they offer employment opportunities, and their impact is felt throughout the community. 

What’s your favorite hidden spot in Chippewa Falls?

Area 178, known formally as Riverview Reserve Trail. A mix of dirt and paved trails, gives fantastic views of the Chippewa River and the dam on Lake Wissota. It’s so relaxing, and I do my best thinking there.

Describe your last encounter with the police department.

Our Police Chief stopped by our most recent Coffee & Commerce networking event as he looks to continue connecting with the business community to keep our community safe.

Allyson's Shoutouts

Riverfront Park. “Fun for walking, enjoying views of the Chippewa River, fishing, or enjoying a movie or music during the summer. It is such a great addition to the city and fun to think about how the previous Chamber building was located there.”

The Chippewa Falls Community. “I have learned to enjoy and expect that people walking by me on the sidewalk say ‘Hello.’ I like it when it takes longer than it should to run an errand because you run into people you know. It’s a great place to live, work, and play!”

Previous Leaders. “I am thankful for those that came before us and had a vision for Chippewa Falls. I’m confident they had their share of challenges, but we see the prosperity of today. I look forward to being a part of the legacy for the future generations.”


If you or someone you know would make a good candidate for Questioning the Locals, send us a message with their contact info and a little bit about them!