About Walter J. Lanier
With over 20 years of dedicated service in public health, urban policy, and faith-based initiatives, Walter J. Lanier is a transformative leader and advocate. He is the founder of Great Lakes Urban Empowerment Solutions (GLUE), where he unites leaders to address urban challenges in Great Lake cities. As the pastor of Progressive Baptist Church, Walter merges faith with action, cultivating a community deeply engaged in addressing local needs. His work extends into mental health through the MIRACLE Mental Health Network, which supports wellness across diverse populations.
Walter’s advocacy for racial and social justice includes leadership roles with My Brother’s Keeper, Black Men Organizing, and Marquette University’s Center for Urban Research. Known for his compassionate yet strategic approach, Walter is a sought-after speaker on topics of community health and civic engagement, and he’s an advocate for voter empowerment in Milwaukee. His journey combines personal faith and professional expertise in the mission to uplift and empower communities. Beyond his organizational work, Walter is a sought-after speaker, sharing his insights on topics such as community health, leadership, and civic engagement. He is passionate about voter empowerment, working to increase turnout in Milwaukee’s low-turnout wards, and he often draws on his faith to inspire action and healing. Walter’s personal story, faith journey, and professional expertise continue to guide him in his mission to empower individuals and build thriving communities.
A Multifaceted Leader
Walter’s career is rooted in his belief that true leadership goes beyond titles; it means being a liberating force within the community. He wears many hats in his journey to make a difference, blending his roles as a pastor, lawyer, educator, and advocate to support Milwaukee’s underserved communities. Whether leading initiatives in mental health, education, or urban development, Walter’s work is a testament to his unwavering commitment to social justice and empowerment.
Senior Pastor of Progressive Baptist Church
As the Senior Pastor of Progressive Baptist Church in Milwaukee, Walter brings a unique vision to faith-based leadership. For over a decade, he has built an inclusive church community centered on compassion, resilience, and a 30-year legacy of service. Under his guidance, the church has become a cornerstone of support for Milwaukee residents, providing spiritual guidance, community resources, and an open door for all.
Director of Student Resources at Milwaukee Area Technical College
In his role at Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC), Walter leads with a dedication to student success and well-being. He founded the Men of Color Initiative, a program designed to support Black male students and foster academic achievement. Walter also established MATC’s first Counseling and Psychological Services department, ensuring students have access to mental health resources and support.
Educational Background and Early Career
Walter graduated from the University of Michigan Law School in 1995 and maintained a successful business law practice for over a decade. With a deep understanding of race, law, and community dynamics, he has also lectured at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s Department of Africology, focusing on race and constitutional law.
Key Initiatives and Community Impact
Walter’s dedication to the Milwaukee community extends across a variety of impactful projects and initiatives:
01.
Founder of the Great Lakes Urban Empowerment Center
In 2005, Walter founded the Great Lakes Urban Empowerment Center, which connects leaders, community members, and policymakers to tackle urban issues facing the Great Lakes region. Through this initiative, Walter advocates for sustainable solutions that drive social change and improve residents' quality of life.
02.
Mental Health Advocacy: MIRACLE Initiative
In 2012, Walter launched MIRACLE (Mental Illness—Raising Awareness with Church and Community Leaders Everywhere), an initiative that brings together faith-based and community leaders to address mental health awareness and reduce stigma. MIRACLE serves as a bridge between spiritual and mental health support, advocating for acceptance and healing in diverse communities.
03.
Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
From his leadership in MATC’s Men of Color Initiative to his work with My Brother’s Keeper, Walter’s initiatives consistently address racial disparities in education, health, and housing. He believes in creating opportunities that allow Milwaukee’s Black communities to thrive and achieve their fullest potential.
driving positive change in Milwaukee
Board Memberships and Leadership Roles
Walter serves on multiple community boards, each aligned with his mission to drive positive change in Milwaukee:
- Milwaukee Community Justice Council
- Milwaukee Inner-City Congregations Allied for Hope
- Housing Ministries of the American Baptist Churches of Wisconsin
- Chairman of the Board, Milwaukee Health Services, Inc.
Through these roles, Walter collaborates with community leaders and policymakers, ensuring that Milwaukee’s inner-city residents have access to critical resources in healthcare, housing, and social services.
Leadership Philosophy
Walter’s guiding philosophy is that sustainable change requires organization, collaboration, and a commitment to measurable outcomes. He believes that when community members come together with shared values and clear objectives, they can create lasting improvements for future generations.
A Vision for Milwaukee’s Future
Walter envisions a Milwaukee where every resident has access to the resources, support, and opportunities they need to thrive. His focus on data-driven, community-centered initiatives reflects his commitment to building a city where equity, opportunity, and justice are accessible to all.
Join Walter’s Journey
Whether you’re interested in community empowerment, mental health advocacy, or simply wish to follow Walter’s journey, we invite you to explore the site and connect with him on social media. Together, we can make Milwaukee a model of resilience, opportunity, and unity.
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