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Menasha Corporation: 175 Years of Innovation, Community, and Creative Partnership

Menasha Corporation: 175 Years of Innovation, Community, and Creative Partnership

November 20, 2024

Our Spotlight Series partner, Menasha Corporation, has been a supporter of your Fox Cities Performing Arts Center since our Capital Campaign – the very first fundraiser that helped raise money to build the Center. Today we celebrate a special anniversary of theirs, and thank them for their generous annual support, including their pledge to the Keystone Endowment Fund.

This year, Menasha Corporation celebrates 175 years!

“The Fox Cities, where Menasha Corporation was founded, hold special meaning for our company. It is especially important that we help strengthen and build all aspects of this community to ensure it thrives.”
Kristi Pavletich, Menasha Corporation Director of Corporate Communications

Menasha Corporation’s founder, Elisha D. Smith, grew his company by staying competitive by evolving with changing needs, and was an advocate for giving back to the community and helping others. His descendants still own the company and maintain his original commitment to community involvement.

“As a sponsorship partner, we are committed to fostering creativity, culture, and connection among the people in our community. We believe that the arts enhance the quality of life by providing a platform for diverse expressions, showcasing talent, and helping to create a vibrant community."
Kristi Pavletich, Menasha Corporation Director of Corporate Communications

According to Director of Corporate Communications Kristi Pavletich, Menasha Corporation’s focus on education and the future aligns perfectly with your Fox Cities Performing Arts Center’s educational resources, workshops, and programs. These initiatives inspire the next generation of artists and performers, ensuring a continuous cycle of creativity and cultural enrichment.

“Our employees frequently share their positive experiences at [the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center], whether attending a performance with their families or participating in an educational program. They feel a sense of pride knowing that Menasha Corporation is a sponsor. This pride is shared by the company, as we take great satisfaction in contributing to such an enriching experience in our community.”
Kristi Pavletich, Menasha Corporation Director of Corporate Communications

Menasha Corporation is a leading packaging manufacturer and supply chain solutions provider comprised of two primary operating companies: Menasha Packaging Company and ORBIS Corporation. Together, the companies’ products and services are used by major food, beverage, consumer products, healthcare, pharmaceutical, heavy equipment, agriculture, industrial, and automotive companies.

What started as a wooden pail manufacturer in Menasha is now one of America’s oldest privately held, family-owned manufacturing companies. They are headquartered in Neenah and have 100+ locations in North America and Europe.