MOVING UP. Travis Austad, above, began CEO duties in mid-September, stepping into the position as predecessor Wesley Escondo joined the Eau Claire Community Foundation. (Photo via Facebook)

“It Takes Little to be Big” is the new slogan of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, a national nonprofit mentorship program for youth. While mentorship sounds huge, the reality is in time spent. Travis Austad, the new CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Wisconsin (BBBSNW), is able to speak to that.

BBBSNW announced Travis as the organization’s new CEO effective Sept. 18. He knows a thing or two and more about mentorship, having worked in leadership for 15 years with the Boys & Girls Club movement in the Chippewa Valley.

BBBSNW has been transforming the lives of children for 51 years by matching them with caring adult mentors who provide guidance, support, and friendship.

“I’m committed to building on the incredible legacy of this organization and working with our dedicated staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners to create even more opportunities for youth to thrive,” Austad said in a recent media release.

BBBSNW Executive Board President Dawn Yarrington also stated that the BBBSNW Board is thrilled to have Austad as its new CEO. “ We are highly enthusiastic about the bright future that awaits under Travis’s capable leadership and extensive nonprofit expertise.”

Wesley Escondo, who worked for nine years as BBBWNW’s CEO, recently joined the Eau Claire Community Foundation as its new president and CEO.

Learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Wisconsin online.