Staff
John Harry
Executive Director
John Harry became the first-ever employee and first Executive Director of the Portage County Historical Society in 2021, leading the organization through a period of rapid growth and professionalization. A proud UW-Stevens Point alumnus, John holds a Master’s degree in Public History and a Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Management from UW-Milwaukee. He previously worked in programming and marketing for the Milwaukee County Historical Society and completed a graduate internship at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History.
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John brings a deep passion for community storytelling and historical preservation to his role. Under his leadership, PCHS has grown its staff, expanded educational programming, launched new exhibits and events, and significantly increased fundraising and advocacy efforts. He is particularly interested in the intersection of local history, public engagement, and place-based identity.
Cheyenne Antell
Curator
Cheyenne Antell manages the Society’s collections, exhibitions, and historic sites, ensuring that the stories of Portage County’s past are preserved and shared with the community. She holds a Master’s degree in Library and Information Studies from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where she developed a strong foundation in archival practice, preservation, and public access to historical materials.
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Cheyenne brings a thoughtful, research-driven approach to her work, curating both permanent and rotating exhibits and leading efforts to care for and interpret the Society’s diverse collections. Her passion lies in making local history accessible, engaging, and meaningful for all audiences.
Kimberly Kopplin
Museum Educator
Kimberly Kopplin leads the Portage County Historical Society’s educational programming, creating opportunities for learners of all ages to engage with local history in meaningful and accessible ways. A native of the Rosholt area, Kimberly is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin–River Falls and brings over 15 years of teaching experience in both classroom and informal learning environments.
At PCHS, she designs and leads field trips, workshops, and community outreach programs that align with Wisconsin’s social studies standards. She is especially passionate about using hands-on learning and storytelling to spark curiosity and connect people of all ages to the past.
Debbie Bryza
Office Administrator & Volunteer Coordinator
Debbie Bryza keeps the Portage County Historical Society running smoothly by managing daily operations and coordinating the efforts of our dedicated volunteers. Before joining the staff, Debbie was a PCHS volunteer herself, giving her a deep understanding of the organization’s mission and the vital role volunteers play in our work.
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A graduate of Oklahoma State University, Debbie brings a strong administrative background and a passion for community engagement to her role. She handles everything from recordkeeping and member services to event support and volunteer onboarding, serving as a key point of contact for both the public and our internal team.