Recognition highlights Agard’s leadership of Wisconsin’s fastest-growing county
DANE COUNTY – Dane County Executive Melissa Agard has been named to In Business Madison magazine’s 2026 Power 100, an annual list recognizing influential leaders shaping the Greater Madison region.
Agard has served as Dane County Executive since 2024, leading county government as Dane County continues to experience significant population, economic, and employment growth. As County Executive, Agard oversees an organization responsible for services ranging from the Dane County Regional Airport to Henry Vilas Zoo, along with human services, public safety, environmental protection, infrastructure, economic development, and other programs serving residents across more than 60 cities, villages, and towns.
Some of County Executive Agard’s fellow awardees on the Power 100 List recognized her being named for the 2nd year in a row:
Dr. Ruben Anthony: CEO, Urban League of Greater Madison
“County Executive Agard is truly a county executive for the people. Her life experiences have taught her what it means to navigate difficult times, and they have shaped her deep understanding of the challenges and aspirations of our community. She is a shining example of a leader who understands that the work of county government is ultimately about people and creating opportunities for communities across Dane County to thrive. She brings a strong focus on opportunity, equity, and innovation to that work and recognizes the importance of strong partnerships in moving our region forward. I’m proud to be recognized alongside her and grateful for the partnership we share with the County Executive and Dane County.”
Zach Brandon: President of the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce
“County Executive Agard has brought bold and innovative leadership to Dane County. Her leadership on difficult projects at the airport and Alliant Energy Center campus reflects her commitment to building coalitions to effect real change and keep Dane County moving forward.”
Since taking office, Agard has focused on strengthening county government while planning for the region’s continued growth. Her administration has worked with county employees, department leaders, and the Dane County Board to address significant structural budget challenges while protecting essential county services.
In 2026, Agard delivered Dane County’s first-ever State of the County Address and released Dane County in Action: A Strategic Vision Delivering Results the Dane County Way, establishing a long-term framework for county government centered around four pillars: Community Services Delivery, Economic Development, Justice System Improvement, and Environmental Leadership.
Agard’s administration has advanced major initiatives across Dane County, including investments in affordable housing and behavioral health services, new approaches to justice reform, environmental and conservation efforts, economic development projects, and planning for the future of major county assets such as the Dane County Regional Airport and Alliant Energy Center.
“I am honored to be included among so many people who are working every day to make Dane County a wonderful place to live, work, raise a family, and build a future,” said Dane County Executive Melissa Agard. “This recognition reflects the work of an incredible team of public servants throughout Dane County government and the partnerships we have built across our communities. I am proud of what we have accomplished together, and I am excited about the work ahead.”
Prior to becoming County Executive, Agard served in both houses of the Wisconsin State Legislature, including as Senate Democratic Leader, and previously served on the Dane County Board of Supervisors. She was elected Dane County Executive in November 2024.
In Business Madison’s Power 100 recognizes leaders making significant contributions to the Greater Madison Area across business, government, education, health care, nonprofits, and other sectors. The 2026 Power 100 appears in the magazine’s September issue, with additional information about this year’s honorees planned for its October issue.
