Stewart Wangard

Stewart purchased his first duplex at age 18. By 19, he had earned his Wisconsin broker’s license, showing the initiative and ownership mindset that would define his career.

By age 21, Stu became Regional Director for RE/MAX of Wisconsin. In 1982, he joined The Boerke Company, now the Cushman & Wakefield affiliate, as a broker associate and continued building the commercial real estate expertise and relationships that would shape his long-term leadership.

Over the decades, Stewart has developed a strong reputation as a leading real estate professional throughout the Midwest. His work has involved more than $3 billion in real estate and reflects more than four decades of industry experience.

Stu was invited to join the HAWS Humane Society board when the organization sought fresh perspective. Years later, when HAWS faced serious strain, he returned as president and helped lead a restructuring effort that included hiring the right executive director, rebuilding momentum, and reengaging the community.

The Village of Oconomowoc Lake also appointed Stu as municipal liaison to the Kettle Moraine Behavioral Health Hospital board. When reimbursement challenges created major strain, the board asked him to become chairman, and the group ultimately selected a sale to Genesis Behavioral Health so the mission could continue.

Stu co-founded the NAIOP Wisconsin Chapter and has served in numerous leadership roles, including service on the National NAIOP Board of Directors. He has also participated in national tax and finance work, infrastructure and environment discussions, and guest lecturing at NAIOP conferences.

In 2023, Stewart transitioned from CEO to Executive Chairman as part of Wangard’s long-term succession plan. He remains actively engaged in company affairs, including strategic planning, project sourcing, critical review, and community involvement.