Titan CEO and headline sponsors Associated Bank and Wipfli LLP are pleased to announce Shari Black, Executive Director and CEO of the Wisconsin State Fair,as a 2026 Wisconsin Titan 100 Honoree. The Titan 100 program recognizes Wisconsin’s Top 100 CEOs & C-level executives. They are the area’s most accomplished business leaders in their industry using criteria that include demonstrating exceptional leadership, vision, and passion. Collectively, the 2026 Wisconsin Titan 100 and their companies employ over 64,000 individuals and generate over $14 billion in annual revenues. This year’s honorees will be published in a limited-edition Titan 100 book and profiled exclusively online. They will be honored at the annual awards ceremony on January 29th, 2026, and will be given the opportunity to interact and connect multiple times throughout the year with their fellow Titans.
“Wisconsin’s Titan 100 are redefining business with vision and purpose, setting new standards for growth, innovation, and impact. These trailblazing leaders inspire transformation across industries, uplift communities, and drive meaningful change. We proudly celebrate their legacy of excellence and unwavering commitment to shaping a brighter future for all,” says Jaime Zawmon, President of Titan CEO.
Shari Black has led the Wisconsin State Fair – recently named a top three state fair in the country by USA TODAY – since being named interim executive director and CEO in October of 2021. After shedding the interim role in March of 2022, Black has led the Wisconsin State Fair to year-over-year growth as well as overseeing the addition of tentpole events such as INDYCAR races, national convention gatherings and more milestone events outside of the 11-day run of the Fair.
Black joined the State Fair in 2016 as event services director and was later named chief programming officer. Previously, she worked for the Waukesha County Fair Association for nearly 20 years, including 15 years as its executive director.
“I am incredibly honored to be recognized as a Titan 100 for Wisconsin,” said Black. “While it’s humbling to be mentioned alongside this year’s incredible list of Titans, I also need to acknowledge that this honor – and our growth – wouldn’t be possible without the hard work and dedication of the State Fair staff. I always tell my team that they should feel proud of the fact that what they do makes a real difference in people’s lives. This award is a testament to the creativity and talent they bring to their roles, day-in and day-out. I look forward to accepting this award on their behalf.”
Shari Black will be honored at the Titan 100 celebration on January 29th, 2026, at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee. This elegant, cocktail-style awards event will unite 100 Titans of Industry for an unforgettable evening of celebration, camaraderie, and networking—an evening unlike anything that exists in the Wisconsin business community.
“On behalf of everyone at Associated Bank, we congratulate all the Titan 100 winners. It’s an honor to recognize this exceptional group of Wisconsin leaders whose vision and impact strengthen our communities. Your accomplishments have been distinctive, and your acknowledgment as a Titan is truly deserved” says Jayne Hladio, 2025 Wisconsin Titan 100 Hall of Fame honoree and President at Associated Bank.
