ROCHELLE PENNINGTON is an award-winning newspaper columnist and bestselling author of ten books, including Highlighted in Yellow (available in four languages; co-authored with H. Jackson Brown, #1 New York Times bestselling author), The Historic Christmas Tree Ship (as featured on national television), An Old-Fashioned Christmas (2009 Midwest Booksellers Choice Award nomination), and more. Her work has been included in multiple bestselling series over the past two decades.
Pennington has worked as a consultant providing story and quotation recommendations to several of the publishing industry’s most noted authors including, Jack Canfield of Chicken Soup for the Soul, H. Jackson Brown of Life’s Little Instruction Books, Dr. Richard Carlson of Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff, and Alice Gray of Stories for the Heart.
Pennington has worked as a consultant providing story and quotation recommendations to several of the publishing industry’s most noted authors including, Jack Canfield of Chicken Soup for the Soul, H. Jackson Brown of Life’s Little Instruction Books, Dr. Richard Carlson of Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff, and Alice Gray of Stories for the Heart.
Pennington is both a lively storyteller and an entertaining lecturer. Her popularity as a presenter to schools, libraries, historical societies, corporations, hospitals, retirement facilities, and civic organizations is evidenced by the many invitations she receives to return and speak on further topics, ranging from history’s most memorable stories, complete with fascinating trivia, to motivational engagements highlighting courage, determination, and personal strength. She expertly weaves the perfect balance of humor, charm, and riveting facts into her captivating performances which focus on “the best of humanity.” Audience members depart with inspiration to apply the principles presented to their own lives.
Pennington has delivered more than 2,000 speeches during the past twenty years, bringing encouragement to over 25,000 people each year. She speaks at 150 events annually. A few of her recent performances, as well as past performances, are highlighted below. Audience sizes range from small gatherings to larger lectures, with a thousand audience members in attendance.
The author resides in Wisconsin with her husband of 43 years. They have two grown children and five grandchildren “so far.” In her free time, she enjoys spending weekends at her family’s 100-year-old vintage “up north” cottage (CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS) just south of the Porcupine Mountains in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The author’s next title, Where the Hammock Hangs, celebrates Pennington’s first seven summers beside the waters. The book includes extensive history on Lake Superior’s lighthouses, sunken ships, copper mines, logging camps, and lodges.
Photos and comments included throughout this website span a time period of 20 years. Several of the author’s favorite events from the past two decades are highlighted below.
Pennington was welcomed onto stage with the below words by the President of the Neenah Woman's Tuesday Club. It was Pennington's seventh invitation to address members of this well-respected, hundred-year-old organization.
- “If you combine the desire to know with an untiring work ethic, skillful writing abilities, an optimistic outlook on life, and a talent for telling a spellbinding story, you have Rochelle Pennington - wife, mother of two, grandmother of five, accomplished musician, award-winning newspaper columnist, and bestselling author. Her exhausting schedule of presentations speaks to her ability to continually captivate audiences. It might be an auditorium filled with students (she is actively involved with education), or a local library. It might be a crystal-chandeliered event for a thousand attendees, or a small thank-you dinner for volunteers. It might be a retirement center, a church, a museum, or a woman's group. No matter the size of the audience, she brings the same inspirational enthusiasm. Wherever you find those with a desire to learn, you find Rochelle ready to enlighten. She connects us to our history. She breathes life into the past, making it relevant in our lives today. Through painstaking research, she reveals the story within an event, or within an individual, and through a carefully crafted narrative leads us to discover the emotional heart of a matter. She draws us in. We follow her as she encourages us to never lose our abiding faith in humanity. Please welcome Rochelle Pennington back to our podium. "
Sissinghurst's Castle Gardens
Summer of 2023
Longtime lecturer and celebrated storyteller Rochelle Pennington takes her love of history into the garden with the launch of her 2025 YouTube channel, Gardening Wanderlust: Join the Journey.
Pennington has travelled extensively across America and Europe (England, France, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, Scotland, and Greece), researching some of the world’s most beloved gardens and parks, and a few lesser-known treasures.
Pennington’s project, years in the making, will feature more than 25,000 of her photographic images. (A sneak peak is available by clicking on any of the “garden gallery” links above.)
Expect lots of non-gardening surprises in the forthcoming programs too, including topics on art, cuisine, literature, travel, and culture.
Get ready to have some fun!
Coming Soon!
University of Notre Dame
Rochelle Pennington has been invited back repeatedly to the University of Notre Dame to speak at the annual leadership conference. She received the following accolade from Earl Carter, Assistant Dean for Faulty Affairs and Special Projects:
“Ms. Pennington is a magnificent writer and storyteller who has been an invaluable contributor to the Notre Dame College of Science’s annual leadership course. Consistently among our most highly-lauded speakers, her captivating presentation of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s timeless leadership attributes, in the face of extreme adversity, has helped inspire several hundred students from many disciplines across the University. Her work is positively shaping the leaders of tomorrow!”
“Ms. Pennington is a magnificent writer and storyteller who has been an invaluable contributor to the Notre Dame College of Science’s annual leadership course. Consistently among our most highly-lauded speakers, her captivating presentation of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s timeless leadership attributes, in the face of extreme adversity, has helped inspire several hundred students from many disciplines across the University. Her work is positively shaping the leaders of tomorrow!”
American Geographical Society
Comments from Jovanka Ristic, American Geographical Society staff librarian for the past thirty years: “I’ve had nothing but very positive feedback from members and guests of the Map Society of Wisconsin who attended Rochelle Pennington’s recent presentation on the Endurance. This was one of the best and most well-attended lectures we’ve had. The way Rochelle wove together the actual photographs and writings of Shackleton and his crew with her own narrative of their miraculous survival story really made it come alive for the audience.”
Comments from Dr. Donn K. Haglund, who holds a Governor’s office with the American Polar Society and is considered an expert on Arctic issues: “I remember well the truly outstanding lecture Rochelle Pennington delivered at the American Geographical Society Library on the Shackleton expedition. The account she so dramatically portrayed was truly the best presentation of an explorer’s account that I’ve heard—ever—in my long career of attending such programs, as a geographer specializing in polar science. I was very fortunate to have been there to hear and see the event." (Professor Haglund was a university educator for forty years.)
Comments from Michael Marini, Program Committee member: “Rochelle Pennington is an engaging storyteller and her stellar Endurance lecture is spellbinding. Not only does she tell about the physical aspects of the journey, but she describes the emotions and feelings of the crew as if you were experiencing their adventure. Well-researched and well-written.”
Rochelle returned to the American Geographical Society Library to deliver her “Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” presentation. This program included information on the Great Lakes and featured extensive information on Lake Superior specifically. The audience size exceeded Rochelle's previous visit and was record-setting for the venue. Veteran librarian Jovanka Ristic included these words in her introduction to the lecture: "Our packed audience this afternoon attests not only to the public's continuing interest in the Edmund Fitzgerald story, but also to Rochelle Pennington's popularity as a powerful speaker."
Comments from Dr. Donn K. Haglund, who holds a Governor’s office with the American Polar Society and is considered an expert on Arctic issues: “I remember well the truly outstanding lecture Rochelle Pennington delivered at the American Geographical Society Library on the Shackleton expedition. The account she so dramatically portrayed was truly the best presentation of an explorer’s account that I’ve heard—ever—in my long career of attending such programs, as a geographer specializing in polar science. I was very fortunate to have been there to hear and see the event." (Professor Haglund was a university educator for forty years.)
Comments from Michael Marini, Program Committee member: “Rochelle Pennington is an engaging storyteller and her stellar Endurance lecture is spellbinding. Not only does she tell about the physical aspects of the journey, but she describes the emotions and feelings of the crew as if you were experiencing their adventure. Well-researched and well-written.”
Rochelle returned to the American Geographical Society Library to deliver her “Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” presentation. This program included information on the Great Lakes and featured extensive information on Lake Superior specifically. The audience size exceeded Rochelle's previous visit and was record-setting for the venue. Veteran librarian Jovanka Ristic included these words in her introduction to the lecture: "Our packed audience this afternoon attests not only to the public's continuing interest in the Edmund Fitzgerald story, but also to Rochelle Pennington's popularity as a powerful speaker."
Winchester Academy Lecture Series
Pennington delivered five lectures to members of the Academy over the past decade and was thrilled to receive news in 2019 that the organization was extending a first ever “All Star” designation to seven of its speakers. A standing-room-only audience greeted the author at her “encore” event.
“Winchester Academy has worked for 25+ years to earn a reputation as a premier guest lecture series in the area. We are very attentive to the selection of important, timely, and popular topics, while also being very careful to vet our speakers. We decided to create an ‘All-Star Series’ for the summer of 2019. The next step was to consider which of our past speakers merited the honor of All-Star. The Program Committee distilled a list of names from over 500 of our previous lecturers. Then Program Committee Members were surveyed to rank those nominees and determine our version of ‘the best of the best’. It is no surprise that your name was among those at the top of the list. We congratulate you. Please consider it a ‘Standing O’ for your previous performances. We hereby invite you to make an encore presentation.”
Great Lakes Captains Association
Rochelle Pennington was honored to speak at the Coast Guard Captains Annual Conference. It was her second invitation. Previously, the author delivered her keynote address on the Endurance expedition to 150 captains of this organization at an earlier annual conference. Her speech emphasized leadership and strength of heart. Afterward, she was contacted by Captain Jack Cork from the program committee, who shared with her that it was the first time in the conference's history that a speaker received a score of 100%, averaged from the evaluation forms completed by audience attendees. Additional feedback from committee member Captain Dean Hobbs followed:
“Every captain in your audience, Rochelle, sat silently and listened attentively. Your passion kept everyone’s attention. No one moved. No one even got up to use the restroom. We haven’t seen that in forever. You are a passionate speaker and your presentation of the events surrounding Sir Ernest Shackleton’s epic voyage was a testament to leadership and absolutely defined the possibilities of men working together in one of the harshest environments known to man. You delivered, in simplest terms, a success story that defied all odds.” Following Pennington’s speech, members of the Great Lakes Captains Association referred the author to the International Shipmasters Association. The author was invited to deliver the keynote address at the annual conference (photo below). Additionally, she was referred to the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and spoke at that organization’s conference also.
“Every captain in your audience, Rochelle, sat silently and listened attentively. Your passion kept everyone’s attention. No one moved. No one even got up to use the restroom. We haven’t seen that in forever. You are a passionate speaker and your presentation of the events surrounding Sir Ernest Shackleton’s epic voyage was a testament to leadership and absolutely defined the possibilities of men working together in one of the harshest environments known to man. You delivered, in simplest terms, a success story that defied all odds.” Following Pennington’s speech, members of the Great Lakes Captains Association referred the author to the International Shipmasters Association. The author was invited to deliver the keynote address at the annual conference (photo below). Additionally, she was referred to the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and spoke at that organization’s conference also.
“Thank you, Rochelle, for making the presentation at the ISMA Grand Lodge Convention. We strive to make these conventions educational and informative. Your presentation certainly fit that perfectly and many conversations centered around the topic long afterwards." Respectfully yours, Captain Robert Schallip, Grand Lodge President, International Shipmasters Association.
“Thank you again for presenting at the Convention. EVERYONE loved it and talked about it for the rest of the convention." Captain Mary Ann Schallip.
“Thank you again for presenting at the Convention. EVERYONE loved it and talked about it for the rest of the convention." Captain Mary Ann Schallip.
Pennington spoke at the 2018 and 2019 annual conferences of the United States Power Squadrons. Comments from Commander Richard Davidson: “I will long regret having to be at a conference in Washington, DC when you spoke at the District Conference last March. The rave reviews following your presentation of the ‘Edmund Fitzgerald’ saga convinced me that I should ask you to do a return engagement.”
Comments from Bill Fleming: “Thank you for the fascinating presentation you gave at our district conference. The feedback from those in attendance was overwhelmingly positive, and all agreed that your passionate delivery and obvious depth of knowledge contributed to an extremely interesting and entertaining program. We sincerely hope that you can join us at some future date for another presentation.”
Comments from Bill Fleming: “Thank you for the fascinating presentation you gave at our district conference. The feedback from those in attendance was overwhelmingly positive, and all agreed that your passionate delivery and obvious depth of knowledge contributed to an extremely interesting and entertaining program. We sincerely hope that you can join us at some future date for another presentation.”
University of Wisconsin-Parkside Lifelong Learners
An attendance record for this group’s membership was set in 2017 when invitations were sent out letting members know that Rochelle Pennington would be returning as the guest speaker. The event’s Chairperson, Marylee Unrath, was thrilled with the response and shared the following comment with Rochelle afterward: “You broke the attendance record when you came in 2012, and you just broke your own record with this event.”
Below photo: Rochelle Pennington spoke to the Lifelong Learners in 2012.
University of Wisconsin HCE Convention
Pennington was invited to deliver the keynote address to nearly 200 attendees of the University of Wisconsin’s 45th Annual HCE Educational Conference (photo below).
The following feedback, gathered from evaluation forms completed by audience members, was forwarded to Pennington by Rose McGrath, Chairperson of the event:
Awesome! So outstanding! Fascinating! Engaging storyteller!! Inspiring! She is one of the best speakers we have ever had. Very entertaining! Excellent speaker! Well-prepared. So exciting! Presenter gave a fascinating talk. Would like to hear her again. Very well-educated in subject. The best keynote speaker I’ve heard in the years I have been coming to this event. Very knowledgeable. Her research is remarkable. Superb.
After the regional conference above, Pennington was invited to deliver the keynote address at the organization’s 2018 state and 2018 national conventions. Attendees of these events participate in workshops, which emphasize education and leadership development. "Learning, Leading, Serving - Enhancing Our Leadership Skills"
Awesome! So outstanding! Fascinating! Engaging storyteller!! Inspiring! She is one of the best speakers we have ever had. Very entertaining! Excellent speaker! Well-prepared. So exciting! Presenter gave a fascinating talk. Would like to hear her again. Very well-educated in subject. The best keynote speaker I’ve heard in the years I have been coming to this event. Very knowledgeable. Her research is remarkable. Superb.
After the regional conference above, Pennington was invited to deliver the keynote address at the organization’s 2018 state and 2018 national conventions. Attendees of these events participate in workshops, which emphasize education and leadership development. "Learning, Leading, Serving - Enhancing Our Leadership Skills"
2018 National Convention
Mackinac Island
Pennington was honored to receive an invitation to speak to the islanders during the summer of 2019. While there, she visited several historic (and enchanting!) gardens.
“Paula and I are sitting on the porch with our morning coffee talking about the phone calls, texts and emails we have received singing your praises. The comments and critiques of your presentation keep coming in and are extremely laudatory. I can’t express my appreciation enough for the effort you put forth for all your new friends on Mackinac Island. A simple thank you is not sufficient. So THANK YOU, THANK YOU!” Craig Starkweather .
“Paula and I are sitting on the porch with our morning coffee talking about the phone calls, texts and emails we have received singing your praises. The comments and critiques of your presentation keep coming in and are extremely laudatory. I can’t express my appreciation enough for the effort you put forth for all your new friends on Mackinac Island. A simple thank you is not sufficient. So THANK YOU, THANK YOU!” Craig Starkweather .
Dallas, Texas
Rochelle Pennington was invited to return to the Dallas Woman’s Club during the holiday season to deliver another lecture in the grand auditorium. Previously, she had been royally welcomed by this organization when she presented her “Christmas Tree Ship” program to members of the prestigious Mary K. Craig class.
Comments received from Mrs. Kathy Jackson, Program Director, after her first presentation: “Your program was the perfect way to start the Christmas season, and our members loved it. Many thanks for sharing your well-written and documented information with us, along with your gift for communication and storytelling. I hope to see you again in the future.”
The evaluation form returned by the organization included the highest possible mark, along with these written comments: “Rochelle was delightful and interesting. Excellent delivery and research. Fascinating topic. We will definitely want her back.”
Comments received from Mrs. Diane Bumpas, Program Director, after her second presentation: “Rochelle continues to please our Craig Class membership and guests with her fascinating narrative and excellent visuals. After her program, she meets her audience with great charm. I hope the Craig Class will consider inviting Rochelle on a more regular basis.”
Rochelle again returned to Texas to speak to members of the Dallas Knife and Fork Club at their Black-Tie Dinner at the recommendation of the Dallas Woman's Club (photo below).
Comments received from Mrs. Kathy Jackson, Program Director, after her first presentation: “Your program was the perfect way to start the Christmas season, and our members loved it. Many thanks for sharing your well-written and documented information with us, along with your gift for communication and storytelling. I hope to see you again in the future.”
The evaluation form returned by the organization included the highest possible mark, along with these written comments: “Rochelle was delightful and interesting. Excellent delivery and research. Fascinating topic. We will definitely want her back.”
Comments received from Mrs. Diane Bumpas, Program Director, after her second presentation: “Rochelle continues to please our Craig Class membership and guests with her fascinating narrative and excellent visuals. After her program, she meets her audience with great charm. I hope the Craig Class will consider inviting Rochelle on a more regular basis.”
Rochelle again returned to Texas to speak to members of the Dallas Knife and Fork Club at their Black-Tie Dinner at the recommendation of the Dallas Woman's Club (photo below).
Lansing Symphony Orchestra Fundraiser
Pennington was honored to speak to 700 members of the Lansing Town Hall Lecture Series to benefit the Lansing Symphony Orchestra. The lecture was followed by a luncheon banquet.
"Dear Rochelle, It was pure joy to meet you! Your presentation touched the hearts of so many in our audience! Your warmth and graciousness was a gift to us all! Thank you so much!" Blessings, Carol Dooley, President
"Dear Rochelle, We had a great response to your presentation from our patrons! Thank you so much for sharing the fruits of your labor!" Sue Miller, Treasurer
"Dear Rochelle, It was pure joy to meet you! Your presentation touched the hearts of so many in our audience! Your warmth and graciousness was a gift to us all! Thank you so much!" Blessings, Carol Dooley, President
"Dear Rochelle, We had a great response to your presentation from our patrons! Thank you so much for sharing the fruits of your labor!" Sue Miller, Treasurer
AAUW American Association of University Women
300 members of AAUW gathered at the Hawk's View Country Club in Lake Geneva to enjoy a holiday luncheon and inspirational keynote speech by Rochelle Pennington. Proceeds from the event benefited the organization's scholarship fund.
"Hi Rochelle, Raves continue to pour in on your Christmas Tree Ship presentation! You continue to inspire audiences!" Joan Davis, Program Committee.
"Hi Rochelle, Raves continue to pour in on your Christmas Tree Ship presentation! You continue to inspire audiences!" Joan Davis, Program Committee.
Packard Music Hall
Rochelle was thrilled to be selected as one of four lecturers chosen annually to address members of the Trumball Town Hall. Events are held at the Packard Music Hall in Warren, Ohio.
St. Margaret's Hospital
Indianapolis, Indiana
Rochelle was invited by members of the Sunnyside Guild Lecture Series to speak to an audience of 270 at a sold-out fundraiser for St. Margaret's Hospital. The event was held at the historic and elegant Woodstock Club.
Pennington has addressed thousands of members of various town halls and lecture organizations over the past ten years.
Above photo: Pennington spoke to 950 members of the Horizons Town Talk at the Horizons Conference Center during their annual speakers series. Five presenters are chosen annually to address this audience. Included among those chosen for the season Pennington was invited were Hollywood legend Joan Collins (of “Dallas” fame) and Candy Crowley, CNN’s chief political correspondent and Presidential debate moderator at that time.
Additionally, Pennington was one of five speakers chosen to address hundreds of members of the Pontiac/Oakland Town Hall for their annual lecture series at the St. George Greek Orthodox Cultural Center in Bloomfield Hills.
Pennington previously spoke to a sold-out audience of 450 members of the distinguished Livonia Town Hall Lecture Series during their holiday season and returned to speak to a sold-out audience of 700 members of the Downriver Town Hall Lecture Series during their holiday gathering on the recommendation of the Livonia members. Rochelle’s presentation was preceded by a speech from Morgan Fairchild, actress, and followed by a lecture from Martha Raddatz, international journalist.
The Downriver Town Hall event was held in Southgate, Michigan at the Crystal Gardens (photo below). A luncheon banquet followed Pennington’s speech in the lecture hall, and an hour long question/answer period followed the luncheon.
Additionally, Pennington was one of five speakers chosen to address hundreds of members of the Pontiac/Oakland Town Hall for their annual lecture series at the St. George Greek Orthodox Cultural Center in Bloomfield Hills.
Pennington previously spoke to a sold-out audience of 450 members of the distinguished Livonia Town Hall Lecture Series during their holiday season and returned to speak to a sold-out audience of 700 members of the Downriver Town Hall Lecture Series during their holiday gathering on the recommendation of the Livonia members. Rochelle’s presentation was preceded by a speech from Morgan Fairchild, actress, and followed by a lecture from Martha Raddatz, international journalist.
The Downriver Town Hall event was held in Southgate, Michigan at the Crystal Gardens (photo below). A luncheon banquet followed Pennington’s speech in the lecture hall, and an hour long question/answer period followed the luncheon.
Pennington returned to the Downriver Town Hall in 2018 (photo below). It was the first time in the organization's fifty-year history that a lecturer was invited back to present another speech. Her third invitation was accepted in 2019.
Above: Lecture Hall, March 2018
Below: Pennington also addressed hundreds of members of the Margaret Waterman Alumnae Town Hall lecture series. The event was held on the Washtenaw Community College's campus.
Below: Pennington also addressed hundreds of members of the Margaret Waterman Alumnae Town Hall lecture series. The event was held on the Washtenaw Community College's campus.
Port Huron Town Hall
Pennington was chosen as a speaker for the Port Huron Town Hall’s 2021-2022 lecture series. Speeches are delivered at the McMorran Theater, a 1,200-seat venue.
Five lecturers speak annually. Among those chosen for the 2019-2020 season were NASA Commander Captain Scott Kelly and kidnap survivor Elizabeth Smart.
Five lecturers speak annually. Among those chosen for the 2019-2020 season were NASA Commander Captain Scott Kelly and kidnap survivor Elizabeth Smart.
OSHER Lifelong Learning Institute
Rochelle received the following note from the University of Wisconsin following a lecture she presented to OSHER registrants: “On behalf of our members, we thank you for sharing your interest and expertise. We would like to take this opportunity to share a few of the survey results received from members who participated in your course offering.”
(Comments below.)
EXCELLENT!! I can’t say enough great things about the presenter and overall presentation! She needs to come back for this subject or others. Very professional. Her enthusiasm was infectious and her level of preparedness impressive. One of the best OSHER talks I have ever attended. She did extensive research, prepared a multifaceted talk, was both entertaining and informative, and engaged with a large audience. Instructor was excellent. Very informed and had personal experiences of area to share and enhance the presentation. I wish she would lead a tour to Lake Superior—going to the areas mentioned in her talk, and under her guidance. Excellent instructor, excellent presentation. Loved the way she integrated Lake Superior and her love and passion for the region with her knowledge of the events. Excellent visuals were seamlessly connected to her talk. Entertaining. Comprehensive. Loads of great slides and info. Of the very best. This course was fantastic. I had goosebumps.
A Pirate Steals a Kiss, 2010 Tall Ship Festival
Badger Car Ferry, Summer 2007
Pennington served as an educator for the “Cruise and Learn Program” for several years aboard the S.S. Badger Car Ferry, traveling between Manitowoc, Wisconsin and Ludington, Michigan.
Vagabond Ski and Social Club
“Thank you so much, Rochelle, for the magnificent presentation to our Vagabond Club. I have heard so many great comments from members who were there, and one person wrote that in 40 years of being a member of our club, this was the best meeting and presentation of any we have had. As you could tell, the place was packed. If we would do this same presentation again, I am sure the place would be filled with many more again. Attached are a few photos from that great night.” Ron Sonntag
Rochelle spoke to many attendees following her speech (photo above), and has returned to speak to this 1,000-member organization since.
National Archives, Great Lakes Region, Christmas 2005
Pennington was an educational presenter to visiting school groups.
Jackson Elementary School, Christmas 2003
Wisconsin Author Annual Christmas Tea, 2014
Rochelle delivered her keynote speech, “The Hidden History Behind Charles Dickens Writing ‘A Christmas Carol’” in 2014. She was the honored author of that year.
Rochelle is pictured above with attendees of the Christmas tea, including Dennis Uhlig, a retired English teacher and bookstore manager. Mr. Uhlig was an early reader of Rochelle’s first column, Insights and Inspirations, which appeared in Wisconsin newspapers in the mid-1990s. Insights and Inspirations was followed by two weekly features, As I See It and A Look at Life. Mr. Uhlig's bookstore hosted Rochelle's very first book-signing event in 2001 when her Highlighted in Yellow title was released.
Rochelle is pictured above with attendees of the Christmas tea, including Dennis Uhlig, a retired English teacher and bookstore manager. Mr. Uhlig was an early reader of Rochelle’s first column, Insights and Inspirations, which appeared in Wisconsin newspapers in the mid-1990s. Insights and Inspirations was followed by two weekly features, As I See It and A Look at Life. Mr. Uhlig's bookstore hosted Rochelle's very first book-signing event in 2001 when her Highlighted in Yellow title was released.
Stephenson Public Library
Nearly two hundred community members, along with members of the local Dickens Fellowship, packed the Stephenson Public Library to hear two presentations delivered by author Rochelle Pennington, one presentation on Charles Dickens writing his masterpiece, “A Christmas Carol,” and the other on the famous “Edmund Fitzgerald.” Chairs were set up in between shelves of books to make room for everyone.
Naperville, Illinois
Pennington has delivered many presentations in the 1864 Civil War church on the historic grounds of the Naper Settlement.
One of Pennington’s programs detailed the history of holiday music and was based on the author’s research as an accomplished musician (organ, piano, guitar). Pennington has been a church organist for decades, since her freshman year in high school, and has served as a children’s choir director. She has written and directed many worship service dramas. Several of her published dramas for children and adults have been widely performed. Two of her adult dramas alone, “Bethlehem Speaks” and “Jerusalem Speaks,” have been presented in over a thousand churches nationwide. Pennington's dramas have been listened to by a quarter of a million churchgoers.
2019: Rochelle returned to Naper Settlement and delivered her lecture on Charles Dickens writing “A Christmas Carol.” This Christmas classic has been a favorite of Pennington’s since girlhood. She has spent many years researching Dickens’s literature and enjoys meeting Dickenson Fellowship members at her events. Pennington has attended the Pabst Theater’s grand stage production of “A Christmas Carol” for the past forty Christmases in a row.
One of Pennington’s programs detailed the history of holiday music and was based on the author’s research as an accomplished musician (organ, piano, guitar). Pennington has been a church organist for decades, since her freshman year in high school, and has served as a children’s choir director. She has written and directed many worship service dramas. Several of her published dramas for children and adults have been widely performed. Two of her adult dramas alone, “Bethlehem Speaks” and “Jerusalem Speaks,” have been presented in over a thousand churches nationwide. Pennington's dramas have been listened to by a quarter of a million churchgoers.
2019: Rochelle returned to Naper Settlement and delivered her lecture on Charles Dickens writing “A Christmas Carol.” This Christmas classic has been a favorite of Pennington’s since girlhood. She has spent many years researching Dickens’s literature and enjoys meeting Dickenson Fellowship members at her events. Pennington has attended the Pabst Theater’s grand stage production of “A Christmas Carol” for the past forty Christmases in a row.
Note: Pennington’s speech can be used as a multi-layered event, spanning four separate weeks.
- Schedule Pennington's lecture.
- Hold a book club event with discussion.
- Schedule a movie/popcorn night and view one of the films.
- Take a bus trip to attend one of the stage productions of the story in your area.
Alumni Lifetime Achievement Award
In 2013, Pennington received a lifetime achievement award from her graduating high school for “gaining distinction in her field, offering an admirable example to students based on character and accomplishments, and contributing to her community of residence.” She was nominated by Mrs. Barbara York, her high school English teacher, who wrote to the judging committee:
“I believe Rochelle Pennington epitomizes that a strong educational foundation, an undaunting work ethic, a positive outlook on life, and an undying curiosity about interesting topics can lead to a successful and fulfilling career and life. Rochelle’s interest in history and her positive attitude have touched many lives throughout our state and nation. She is an accomplished, enthusiastic, and sought-out lecturer on the local, state, and national levels. What better example for today’s students to emulate?”
“I believe Rochelle Pennington epitomizes that a strong educational foundation, an undaunting work ethic, a positive outlook on life, and an undying curiosity about interesting topics can lead to a successful and fulfilling career and life. Rochelle’s interest in history and her positive attitude have touched many lives throughout our state and nation. She is an accomplished, enthusiastic, and sought-out lecturer on the local, state, and national levels. What better example for today’s students to emulate?”
Photos above: Rochelle Pennington is pictured above left with her high school English teacher, Mrs. Barbara York, in 2004 at a book signing event, and on the right in 2013 at the awards ceremony.
S.E.A.S.
Sailing Education Association Event
at Blue Harbor Resort
Pennington has been hosted by the S.E.A.S. organization at the beautiful Blue Harbor Resort for several years. After her 2014 Fitzgerald speech, the author was invited to repeat the same lecture in 2015. A full-house crowd greeted Pennington on her return. The banquet room she typically presented in during earlier years was filled to capacity and nearly a hundred additional people were lined up outside the door. The entire event needed to be moved to a larger banquet space fifteen minutes before the speech began.
Greatest Shipwrecks of the Great Lakes
Sunken ships. Sunken treasures. At the bottom of the Great Lakes, in darkened depths, lie the remains of countless ships swallowed whole when the pleasing rhythm of calm waters turned violent. Join author Rochelle Pennington for an underwater look at nearly two dozen wrecks, all lying hidden just below the surface of our inland seas--Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, Lake Huron, Lake Erie, and Lake Ontario. Pennington will highlight the most noteworthy and fascinating losses of our shipwrecked shores.
Notre Dame
Pennington was deeply humbled to be asked to deliver one of the two keynote addresses to audience attendees at a benefit which raised thousands of dollars for wounded warriors in November 2014. The event was held on the Notre Dame campus in the Morris Inn ballroom.
Pennington was invited by the event host/organizer, Christopher Stevens, co-founder of Keurig Coffee, and his wife, Trice, who sent the following note afterward:
“I wanted to say that it was such an honor having you speak at our event. My only wish was that I had an opportunity to spend more time with you. Meeting you was one of the things I looked forward to the most. Jan, Laurie, mom, and I would love to adopt you. So, you are officially in our hearts and in our family. Thank you for your time, generosity, and words, which filled the room with interest and perspective. The efforts of all involved helped us raise over $22,000 that evening. I wish we lived close so we could share some time together. Hugs, Trice”
After Pennington's November 2014 Notre Dame speech, the author was invited to return to the university to speak to students at a special annual leadership course.
Pennington was invited by the event host/organizer, Christopher Stevens, co-founder of Keurig Coffee, and his wife, Trice, who sent the following note afterward:
“I wanted to say that it was such an honor having you speak at our event. My only wish was that I had an opportunity to spend more time with you. Meeting you was one of the things I looked forward to the most. Jan, Laurie, mom, and I would love to adopt you. So, you are officially in our hearts and in our family. Thank you for your time, generosity, and words, which filled the room with interest and perspective. The efforts of all involved helped us raise over $22,000 that evening. I wish we lived close so we could share some time together. Hugs, Trice”
After Pennington's November 2014 Notre Dame speech, the author was invited to return to the university to speak to students at a special annual leadership course.
Plymouth Arts Center
Pennington regularly speaks at museums and historical societies. The photo below was taken at a recent gathering of the Sheboygan Falls Historical Research Society members. Pennington has spoken to the membership of this organization many times over many years.
“Rochelle’s presentations always pack the house. She has been part of the Sheboygan County Historical Research Center’s Second Saturdays—Journeys into History speakers’ series for many years and is an audience favorite. She is a dynamic, heartfelt speaker, who knows her topic and brings that depth of knowledge to each and every audience. Her enthusiasm is contagious, and her passion is obvious.”
Beth Dippel, Director
Monteagle Assembly Chautauqua
Monteagle, Tennessee
Pennington was honored to receive an invitation to teach at the Monteagle Assembly, one of America’s oldest chautauquas, founded in the 1800s, and located on the Cumberland Plateau in southeastern Tennessee. Chautauquas were established across America to promote spiritual and intellectual nourishment in the arts, theater, literature, and public affairs, and to further ecumenical, inter-denominational religious studies. She was a guest at the historic Edgeworth Inn during her stay. Her delivery of two separate lectures to the Monteagle community was preceded by a lecture from Jon Meacham the week prior. Meacham is a New York Times #1 bestselling author and a winner of the Pulitzer Prize.
State of Wisconsin Historical Society
Pennington has completed many events for the State of Wisconsin Historical Society over the past fifteen years. She received the following note after her December 2016 speech:
“Thank you again for another wonderful presentation! You are a masterful storyteller! We would love to have you back again next year. The total in attendance for this year’s event was 197 people, and the feedback was really, really positive.” David Desimone
“Thank you again for another wonderful presentation! You are a masterful storyteller! We would love to have you back again next year. The total in attendance for this year’s event was 197 people, and the feedback was really, really positive.” David Desimone
State of Wisconsin Hospital Association
Pennington was invited to return to the State of Wisconsin Hospital Association’s annual conference in 2015. The author previously spoke at the organization’s 2013 conference. Correspondence arrived after the event from the convention chairperson, Pat Freeders, who typed-out a list of comments received from audience members who were surveyed for their reactions. The following answers were a few given by different people to the question “What did you like most about Rochelle Pennington’s presentation?”: Everything! The speaker was amazing! Very enlightening! The whole thing! It warmed my heart! Engaging presenter! It was lighthearted and fun! She did a wonderful job of sharing so many memories and did it very well! Couldn’t have been better!… “As you read the comments,” wrote Pat Freeders, “you will see how the participants enjoyed your presentation. Thank you from all of us, and from those who were fortunate enough to hear your program.”
Rochelle was recommended to the State organization by a regional hospital, Mercy Health Systems. Over 250 volunteers from Mercy heard the author deliver her speech “An Old-Fashioned Christmas” at their Christmas party. The following comments were received after the Mercy event from Jill Ayres, event organizer: “Dear Rochelle, I wanted to send you a personal thank you. Wow!! You did a beautiful job at our Volunteer Luncheon. I was so excited that we had so many people tell us how they enjoyed the program! People said it was one of the best luncheons and programs they have attended! May you have a wonderful holiday season.”
Rochelle was recommended to the State organization by a regional hospital, Mercy Health Systems. Over 250 volunteers from Mercy heard the author deliver her speech “An Old-Fashioned Christmas” at their Christmas party. The following comments were received after the Mercy event from Jill Ayres, event organizer: “Dear Rochelle, I wanted to send you a personal thank you. Wow!! You did a beautiful job at our Volunteer Luncheon. I was so excited that we had so many people tell us how they enjoyed the program! People said it was one of the best luncheons and programs they have attended! May you have a wonderful holiday season.”
Pennington has delivered many speeches over the past fifteen years to volunteers during “thank you” luncheons/dinners. The subjects of kindness and generosity are frequently addressed in the author’s books.
St. John's Lutheran Church, Oregon
Pennington delivered her “Endurance” lecture to members and guests at the church’s annual spring luncheon.
Palos Heights Public Library
A record-setting audience for the Palos Heights Public Library (along with a waiting list) greeted Rochelle Pennington when she delivered her “Christmas Tree Ship” program. Pennington has been a frequent presenter at this library.
From Jeannine Kacmar, Program Librarian: “I book all of our programs and have been working with programming for almost 15 years. The quality of your presentations is top notch. I am one big and thankful fan!”
Greensboro, North Carolina
Rochelle was deeply honored to accept the National Exchange Club’s invitation to speak at their annual convention. The National Exchange Club is America’s oldest service organization and is committed to the betterment of our communities, our families, and our country. The club promotes Americanism and is dedicated to teaching our country’s rich heritage through the distribution and display of our founding documents.
Rochelle Pennington was the keynote speaker at the National Exchange Club’s annual convention in Greensboro, North Carolina in 2013. Seven hundred members representing clubs from across America were in attendance.
Rochelle Pennington was the keynote speaker at the National Exchange Club’s annual convention in Greensboro, North Carolina in 2013. Seven hundred members representing clubs from across America were in attendance.
Louisville, Kentucky
Above photo: Rochelle Pennington with Evan Thurmond, President of The Executives Club Pennington addressed distinguished businessmen and women of The Executives Club in Louisville, Kentucky, on the subject of leadership. The event was held at the opulent Brown Hotel, one of Kentucky’s premier landmarks.
Comments from Jan Kottke, The Executives Club, Program Chairperson: "What a FABULOUS evening with you! It was way too much fun! The Board RAVED about you and your presentation!"
Comments from Jan Kottke, The Executives Club, Program Chairperson: "What a FABULOUS evening with you! It was way too much fun! The Board RAVED about you and your presentation!"
The Brown Hotel, Louisville, Kentucky
Door County Maritime Museum
Rochelle Pennington has been a repeat presenter at the Door County Maritime Museum, one of the premier maritime facilities on the Great Lakes. The two photos above were taken at the author’s Christmas 2017 lecture, her sixth invitation over the past dozen years, and the photo below was taken at her 2015 lecture. Pennington delivered her powerful “Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” presentation in 2015, in honor of the 40th anniversary of the Fitzgerald’s disappearance in November 1975. She additionally was hosted at another noted nautical facility, Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center, in 2015.
Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center
Pennington's "Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" was attended by a standing-room-only audience (photo below) in the Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center’s auditorium. When auditorium seats ran out, 75 chairs were set up in the aisles and along the room’s borders. When available chairs were filled, overflow attendees either stood or sat on the floor for the entire presentation. The author was deeply honored to meet family members and descendants of the lost crew afterward.
Plymouth Place
Three hundred attendees were present at Pennington’s back-to-back presentations at Plymouth Place in November 2017. Registration filled to capacity and a waiting list was put in place. The author has been invited back three years in a row.
Oak Park Place, a premier retirement community
Pennington has repeatedly been invited to Oak Park Place’s ten communities to present programs to residents, as well as to guests from the outside community.
St. Xavier University
Pennington has been called “the crowd’s favorite” at the Renaissance Academy of St. Xavier University. The author’s lectures pack the hall.
Campus Life
The photo below was taken at the Christmas 2017 gathering. It was Pennington’s sixth invitation.
Burlington Historical Society
Another full-house audience greeted Rochelle Pennington at the Burlington Historical Society where she has been the program presenter at the Society’s annual Christmas gathering for the past eleven years in a row.
Betty's Attic, America's premier catalog for retro memorabilia
Pennington’s holiday title, “An Old-Fashioned Christmas: Tinsel, Gingerbread Men and Raggedy Ann,” which details the Christmases of yesteryear between 1930 and 1960, was featured in the 2014 holiday editions of the nationally circulated Betty’s Attic catalog.
Additionally, “An Old-Fashioned Christmas” was featured in the Nov/Dec issue of “Tea Time Magazine.”
Additionally, “An Old-Fashioned Christmas” was featured in the Nov/Dec issue of “Tea Time Magazine.”
Illinois State University Alumni Center
Rochelle has returned repeatedly to this venue and is marketed as the "Audience Favorite."
Pennington has been actively involved in education over the past two decades and has presented countless programs at all grade levels of education, from elementary schools to colleges. Additionally, she has been a frequent speaker for Retired Educators Association chapters since delivering the keynote address for the Wisconsin State Conference in 2005. The group’s newsletter reported afterward: “What a wonderful convention we had at Green Lake. I simply cannot report all the activities we shared, but who can forget the amusing and provocative delivery by Rochelle Pennington? Those of you who missed coming really lost out on some exciting information and glorious entertainment.” Rochelle has been called the “teacher of teachers.”
Pennington has taught courses at several University of Wisconsin facilities, including multiple visits over the past ten years to UW-Green Bay. Pennington was invited back to the campus to present her “WWI Christmas Miracle” speech and her course filled to capacity immediately after being announced. Sixty-nine students asked to be placed on the cancellation list and, because of this, the event was repeated later in the year.
Comments from students who attended Rochelle’s presentation were forwarded to the author by the curriculum office of the University:
- Beautifully presented, so moving.
- Spellbinding, Rochelle. Spellbinding.
- This was a great story told by a great storyteller.
- Outstanding program. Fascinating.
- Very well done. Fantastic artifacts.
- This presenter is amazingly well-informed.
- Bring her back.
- Rochelle’s preparation and knowledge are apparent to all who attend any of her programs.
- A very organized and interesting presentation delivered by a talented and effective speaker.
- Rochelle’s program of the WWI Christmas truce from her book Christmas Gifts was a gift in itself to those in the audience.
Update: Pennington will be speaking to the University of Wisconsin’s O.S.H.E.R. learners, a 1500-member group of retirees.
It was a special honor for author Rochelle Pennington to speak to Board Officers and Key Women Educators of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society’s Alpha Beta Chapter of Washington County. This educational organization supports young, aspiring authors and illustrators in grades three through eight and funds scholarships for high school seniors seeking to enter the field of education.
Davenport, Iowa
Rochelle was warmly welcomed back to the German American Heritage Center in Davenport, Iowa, during the fall of 2014. She presented her “World War I Christmas Truce” speech to historians and patrons of this fine facility for their annual banquet.
Previously, Pennington presented two speeches at the museum in 2012, each of which concluded with carol singing in both English and German. The author, a church organist for the past 40 years (since her freshman year of high school), provided musical accompaniments on a vintage piano.
Comments from Janet Brown-Lowe, Director of the facility, following the 2012 programs: “Rochelle, we thoroughly enjoyed both of your presentations, and I can say that they were certainly among the very best that we have offered this year. (We will have had 60 programs in 2012—whew!) You did a wonderful, wonderful job! I am eager to get you booked back and will be in touch regarding that.”
Previously, Pennington presented two speeches at the museum in 2012, each of which concluded with carol singing in both English and German. The author, a church organist for the past 40 years (since her freshman year of high school), provided musical accompaniments on a vintage piano.
Comments from Janet Brown-Lowe, Director of the facility, following the 2012 programs: “Rochelle, we thoroughly enjoyed both of your presentations, and I can say that they were certainly among the very best that we have offered this year. (We will have had 60 programs in 2012—whew!) You did a wonderful, wonderful job! I am eager to get you booked back and will be in touch regarding that.”
BANKS
Pennington’s recent programs to banking clubs have included presentations to the Vernon Hills Bank & Trust, Oak Lawn Bank & Trust, Wintrust Bank of Chicago, State Bank of the Lakes Antioch, First National Bank of Evergreen, and the Beverly Bank & Trust.
The photo below was taken in October of 2017 at the Ruth Lake Country Club. The gathering was scheduled for patrons of the Hinsdale Bank & Trust. There were 130 guests in attendance.
The photo below was taken in October of 2017 at the Ruth Lake Country Club. The gathering was scheduled for patrons of the Hinsdale Bank & Trust. There were 130 guests in attendance.
Pennington was honored to present her program “A Walk Down Memory Lane” to nearly 600 patrons of the National Exchange Bank & Trust’s “Golden Year Club,” a premier banking club for seniors, who registered for her seminar. Reference below:
To Whom it May Concern, National Exchange Bank invited Rochelle Pennington to be our guest speaker for our annual fall seminars we host for our customers that are age 55 or better. I chose Rochelle because I had read an article about her a few years before and had purchased her book “Believe in Yourself” (which sits in my office when I need inspiration). The response to the seminars entitled “A Walk Down Memory Lane” was over-whelming, to put it mildly. We scheduled three seminars and had to add an additional seminar due to the many requests to attend. In 25 years, this was our most attended seminar.
Rochelle captured the audience with her humor, charm and touching stories coming from her heart. She had people in the audience with tears in their eyes as they related to her stories. After her presentation they lingered to visit with Rochelle and share time with her.
I received many phone calls thanking the bank for presenting this uplifting program and still am receiving calls asking for her contact information. She most definitely will be back at National Exchange presenting another program in the near future.
Rochelle’s inspirational presentation left us recalling many memories of the wonderful life we had and still enjoy today! Thanks for the memories, Rochelle!
If you have additional questions or concerns please contact me. You will not be disappointed with Rochelle as your speaker.
Janet L. Johnson Marketing Assistant National Exchange Bank & Trust
To Whom it May Concern, National Exchange Bank invited Rochelle Pennington to be our guest speaker for our annual fall seminars we host for our customers that are age 55 or better. I chose Rochelle because I had read an article about her a few years before and had purchased her book “Believe in Yourself” (which sits in my office when I need inspiration). The response to the seminars entitled “A Walk Down Memory Lane” was over-whelming, to put it mildly. We scheduled three seminars and had to add an additional seminar due to the many requests to attend. In 25 years, this was our most attended seminar.
Rochelle captured the audience with her humor, charm and touching stories coming from her heart. She had people in the audience with tears in their eyes as they related to her stories. After her presentation they lingered to visit with Rochelle and share time with her.
I received many phone calls thanking the bank for presenting this uplifting program and still am receiving calls asking for her contact information. She most definitely will be back at National Exchange presenting another program in the near future.
Rochelle’s inspirational presentation left us recalling many memories of the wonderful life we had and still enjoy today! Thanks for the memories, Rochelle!
If you have additional questions or concerns please contact me. You will not be disappointed with Rochelle as your speaker.
Janet L. Johnson Marketing Assistant National Exchange Bank & Trust
RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES
Above photo: 200 seniors spent the afternoon listening to author Rochelle Pennington’s Endurance presentation at Plymouth Place, La Grange, Illinois, a premier retirement community.
“I first had the pleasure of meeting Rochelle Pennington, award-winning newspaper columnist and bestselling author, last year about this time when she was here to share the story of Ernest Shackleton and the Endurance shipwreck. Her storytelling is lyrical and poetic. She has a way of weaving her own SIGNATURE MAGIC into her narratives that take you to another time and place. I wanted to bring her home with me so I could curl up on the couch, wrapped in a blankie, and listen to her tell me stories all night. You will love her as much as we do!”
Sharon Sleezer, Marketing Director Plymouth Place
Pennington presents dozens of presentations at retirement communities each year. Retirement facilities take unique approaches to promoting events. Some facilities invite potential future residents to a program in order to introduce guests to a quality social activity on the community’s calendar. A tour of the facility follows. When a program is used in this way, the marketing department typically funds the event partially. Other facilities will many times invite family members to hear the presentation (entertainment for family holiday parties), while others will use one of the Christmas options as a “kick off” to the holiday season. The community’s Christmas tree is lit afterward and holiday beverages/cookies are served.
WOMAN'S CLUBS
Pennington is a frequent speaker at many, many woman's clubs.
Glen Ellyn Woman's Club, December 2015
Jacqueline Laub, Program Chairman of the Oregon Town & Country Woman’s Club, contacted Rochelle following her address to members in February 2015: Hi Rochelle, Firstly, I want to thank you for your wonderful performance last Tuesday. Never have I had such a fantastic response from our club members regarding a program! Secondly, as we discussed, I would love to book you for our meeting on October 13, 2015. I know you will provide an inspiring program. Rochelle, I was also impressed with not only your program but with you as a person. With fondest wishes, Jacqueline Laub
After Rochelle’s October 2015 presentation, Ms. Laub forwarded the following note: Please consider this message a firm confirmation that you will schedule this date, December 13, 2016, to speak to our ladies as only you can, in the remarkable way you captivate an audience. I have received so many compliments and praise from our ladies who said they were so very impressed with you and the way you made them a part of your feelings. You are truly a remarkable person and I feel that you are a kindred spirit. I feel that I have known you forever. Let us keep in touch, Jacqueline
After Rochelle’s October 2015 presentation, Ms. Laub forwarded the following note: Please consider this message a firm confirmation that you will schedule this date, December 13, 2016, to speak to our ladies as only you can, in the remarkable way you captivate an audience. I have received so many compliments and praise from our ladies who said they were so very impressed with you and the way you made them a part of your feelings. You are truly a remarkable person and I feel that you are a kindred spirit. I feel that I have known you forever. Let us keep in touch, Jacqueline
CHURCHES
Rochelle is a frequent speaker at churches. A few recently completed church visits, as well as visits scheduled for upcoming locations, include:
First Presbyterian Church of Neenah (photo below), First Presbyterian Church of Glen Ellyn, Hales Corners Lutheran Church, Mount Olive Lutheran Church, Steeple View, First Presbyterian Church of La Grange, St. Dominic Catholic Church, Ladies Guild of Emmanuel Lutheran, St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church, Campus Life, Faith United Lutheran Church of Gillette, United Methodist Church of Whitefish Bay, Community United Methodist Church of Elm Grove, Our Lady of Ransom Catholic Church of Niles, Presbyterian Women of Arlington Heights, St. John’s Lutheran Church of New Fane, St. John’s Lutheran Church of Lannon, St. Raphael’s Catholic Church of Naperville, Palos Park Presbyterian Church, Palos Heights Christian Reformed Church, and Faith Christian Reformed of Elmhurst. Pennington will also be speaking for the fifth time at the Midwest Congregational Woman’s Fellowship Annual Retreat in 2018, as well as for the second time at the annual retreat of the Missouri Synod S.E. District Wisconsin Lutheran’s membership.
First Presbyterian Church of Neenah (photo below), First Presbyterian Church of Glen Ellyn, Hales Corners Lutheran Church, Mount Olive Lutheran Church, Steeple View, First Presbyterian Church of La Grange, St. Dominic Catholic Church, Ladies Guild of Emmanuel Lutheran, St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church, Campus Life, Faith United Lutheran Church of Gillette, United Methodist Church of Whitefish Bay, Community United Methodist Church of Elm Grove, Our Lady of Ransom Catholic Church of Niles, Presbyterian Women of Arlington Heights, St. John’s Lutheran Church of New Fane, St. John’s Lutheran Church of Lannon, St. Raphael’s Catholic Church of Naperville, Palos Park Presbyterian Church, Palos Heights Christian Reformed Church, and Faith Christian Reformed of Elmhurst. Pennington will also be speaking for the fifth time at the Midwest Congregational Woman’s Fellowship Annual Retreat in 2018, as well as for the second time at the annual retreat of the Missouri Synod S.E. District Wisconsin Lutheran’s membership.
LIBRARIES
Pennington is a frequent speaker at many libraries. Standing-room-only audiences have greeted the author at many locations.
Comments from Patricia Boge, Community Relations Coordinator: "La Crosse Public Library wholeheartedly endorses the talents of Rochelle Pennington. We had her deliver her program 'A Walk Down Memory Lane' to a rapt audience of over 90 older adults, many of whom were reluctant to let her pack up at the end of her presentation to leave. We plan to have her back again to do another one of her many offerings. For an entertaining and professional program, hire her! You'll be glad you did."
Over a hundred patrons from the Cudahy Family Library, a record-setting audience for this small library, attended Pennington’s “Fitzgerald” lecture in March 2016. The author was invited to return to the library in Spring 2017 to present her “Endurance” speech. Another nearby library, Whitefish Bay Public Library, also had a record-setting audience for Pennington’s “Fitzgerald” lecture three months prior.
A packed house greeted Pennington at the Orland Park Public Library in November 2015. It was the author’s fourth speech at this facility.
Daughters of the American Revolution
State Convention, Madison, Wisconsin
Pennington delivered her “One Nation Under God” speech in Madison to members of the Wisconsin Chapter of DAR. It is the second time Pennington spoke at the State Convention in the past seven years.
Cuyahoga, Ohio
Pennington presented her “World War I Christmas Miracle” in 2013 to patrons from 28 branches of the Cuyahoga County Library in Ohio. Her presentation was held at the library’s newest location during the facility’s grand opening week.
Pennington has presented hundreds of programs at libraries in many states over the past fifteen years.
Pennington has presented hundreds of programs at libraries in many states over the past fifteen years.
Wheeling, West Virginia
Pennington delivered her “A Walk Down Memory Lane” speech in 2013 to members of the Woman’s Club of Wheeling, West Virginia at the historic Osiris Temple, and also delivered this same speech in 2013 to members of the Four Arts Club in Elkhart, Indiana.
Menominee, Michigan Save the Lighthouse!
Pennington was honored to be invited to Menominee, Michigan in December of 2013 to present two of her nautical programs as a fundraiser to save the Menominee lighthouse. The special holiday event began as a joint effort between concerned citizens at the local yacht and country clubs, along with leaders at the local Economic Development Corp office, who hoped to restore the iconic landmark. Tickets to the event were sold at $50 each and over $15,000 was raised to begin work on the historic light. (See event flyer below.)
Soo Locks Boat Tours Dinner Cruise
50th Anniversary of the International Bridge
What a memorable evening! Pennington presented her “Christmas Tree Ship” program in Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the International Bridge connecting Canada and Michigan on June 28, 2012. Guests on board the dinner cruise were treated to a roast turkey feast with all the trimmings while their vessel was captained by “Santa Claus.” The event ended with a sky of fireworks as the bridge was illuminated from end to end.
The Statesman
Photo above by Andrew Kuehl, Editor and Publisher of The Statesman.
The Statesman announced Pennington's forthcoming book signing at The Candy Tree with the words, "These days Rochelle Pennington could use Santa's sleigh and reindeer to help her reach destinations where she is making personal appearances. Last week, the author signed books and spoke in three different states in four days." Rochelle is pictured with Chris Jung, owner of The Candy Tree.
St. Thomas Aquinas School
It has become “tradition” for Rochelle to visit St. Thomas Aquinas School and deliver her holiday Christmas Tree Ship program to students there.
“Rochelle, Today’s presentation was again outstanding! The students were enthralled! They asked Mr. Rick if they could work on writing their play tomorrow so that they could remember everything you told them!" Carol Ewald, Director of Technology, St. Thomas Aquinas Parish School
The photo below was taken at Blesch Intermediate School. Rochelle delivered her program on the legendary Endurance shipwreck to nearly 500 students.
“Rochelle, Today’s presentation was again outstanding! The students were enthralled! They asked Mr. Rick if they could work on writing their play tomorrow so that they could remember everything you told them!" Carol Ewald, Director of Technology, St. Thomas Aquinas Parish School
The photo below was taken at Blesch Intermediate School. Rochelle delivered her program on the legendary Endurance shipwreck to nearly 500 students.
Niagara Public Library
Rochelle Pennington with Bruce Darne, Director of the Niagara Public Library
Christmas came early to patrons of the Niagara Public Library when Pennington showed up with a sleigh full of vintage toys (a trunk full, actually) and presented her program “An Old-Fashioned Christmas.” Pennington has been invited three times to this library over the past decade.
Comments from Bruce Darne, Director: "Rochelle Pennington magically transported her audience at the Niagara Public Library back to Christmas past, specifically focusing on the ‘30s, ‘40s, and ‘50s. I highly recommend Rochelle for any of the presentations that she does. She is highly professional and delights audiences with her sparkling personality and deep knowledge of her subjects."
Comments from the President of the Friends of the Niagara Public Library after Pennington's 2018 event: “Dear Rochelle, Applause!! Thank you so much for your terrific program for our friends of the Niagara Public Library. You are truly an amazing spirit and terrific speaker! Weren’t you pleased with the large audience that evening and enthusiastic response?! I personally feel gifted to have met you and connected even just a little over these past years during your visits.” Lovingly, Jody Wall, President
Comments from Bruce Darne, Director: "Rochelle Pennington magically transported her audience at the Niagara Public Library back to Christmas past, specifically focusing on the ‘30s, ‘40s, and ‘50s. I highly recommend Rochelle for any of the presentations that she does. She is highly professional and delights audiences with her sparkling personality and deep knowledge of her subjects."
Comments from the President of the Friends of the Niagara Public Library after Pennington's 2018 event: “Dear Rochelle, Applause!! Thank you so much for your terrific program for our friends of the Niagara Public Library. You are truly an amazing spirit and terrific speaker! Weren’t you pleased with the large audience that evening and enthusiastic response?! I personally feel gifted to have met you and connected even just a little over these past years during your visits.” Lovingly, Jody Wall, President
Phoenix, Arizona: Theater Works &
Antigo Community Theater
Cast members of the Antigo Community Theater invited Rochelle Pennington to present her “Christmas Tree Ship” lecture on the eve of November 5, 2012 in the Volm Theater. Pennington’s event was held in conjunction with the theater group’s production of the musical “The Christmas Schooner,” based on the story of the Christmas Tree Ship. The musical was performed under the leadership of the group’s director, Moira Scupien. It is the second time Ms. Scupien has provided the artistic leadership of this musical for her community. (The first performances were held in 2007, at which time Pennington was also present to deliver her historical program about the ship featured in the musical.) Pennington’s evening presentation at the Volm Theater followed an all-day event with seven one-hour workshops for nearly 400 middle school students who were going to attend a special presentation of the musical the following day.
Pennington’s first out-of-state trip to present a “Christmas Tree Ship” program was in 2005 to members of another community theater during a “Christmas Schooner” musical production:
“On her first trip to Arizona, Rochelle Pennington hopes to bring her love of the historical Christmas Tree Ship to West Valley residents. Theater Works’ CEO, Jack Lytle, is thrilled that the author is willing to share her expertise on the ship with his patrons. ‘It’s a wonderful, wonderful story,’ Lytle said. ‘It’s the kind of story that is passed down from generation to generation. I’m excited to get her out here and have her share some of that with the rest of the community.”
Northwest Valley News, Peoria, Arizona December 2, 2005
Pennington’s first out-of-state trip to present a “Christmas Tree Ship” program was in 2005 to members of another community theater during a “Christmas Schooner” musical production:
“On her first trip to Arizona, Rochelle Pennington hopes to bring her love of the historical Christmas Tree Ship to West Valley residents. Theater Works’ CEO, Jack Lytle, is thrilled that the author is willing to share her expertise on the ship with his patrons. ‘It’s a wonderful, wonderful story,’ Lytle said. ‘It’s the kind of story that is passed down from generation to generation. I’m excited to get her out here and have her share some of that with the rest of the community.”
Northwest Valley News, Peoria, Arizona December 2, 2005
North Point Lighthouse
Photo above: Peter Hirthe (left), President of Wisconsin Marine Historical Society, Rochelle Pennington, author, and John Enright (right), Curator Emeritus at North Point Lighthouse and Board Member of the Wisconsin Marine Historical Society, standing next to the 800-pound Milwaukee harbor fog bell that once served at the Milwaukee harbor entrance. Pennington presented her "Christmas Tree Ship" program at the historic lighthouse. Two of Pennington’s all-time favorite programs over the years were delivered at other historic Great Lakes lighthouses on stormy eves.
Christmas Tree Ship 100th Anniversary
Chicago, Illinois
On Sunday, November 18, 2012, St. Pauls United Church in Christ in Chicago held an anniversary celebration to honor the loss of the Christmas Tree Ship and its captain, Herman Scheunemann, who was a much-loved member of this congregation a century ago. (The church name is spelled without an apostrophe in the German tradition.)
The archives at St. Pauls are filled with references to the many kindnesses and acts of generosity done by Captain Herman and Barbara Schueneman, as well as by their children.
Rochelle Pennington was honored to be present during the all-day festivities which included a memorial worship service, a musical, educational programs, historic exhibits, and a German feast.
The front and back covers of the church’s commemorative booklet are below.
The archives at St. Pauls are filled with references to the many kindnesses and acts of generosity done by Captain Herman and Barbara Schueneman, as well as by their children.
Rochelle Pennington was honored to be present during the all-day festivities which included a memorial worship service, a musical, educational programs, historic exhibits, and a German feast.
The front and back covers of the church’s commemorative booklet are below.
Christmas Tree Ship 100th Anniversary
Two Rivers, Wisconsin
Author Rochelle Pennington was a featured guest at the 100th anniversary celebration of the Christmas Tree Ship in Two Rivers, Wisconsin. Also in attendance was Eric Forsberg, one of America's foremost nautical painters. Forsberg's artwork on the Christmas Tree Ship is featured in Pennington's book Christmas Gifts: Ten of the Greatest Ever Given.
100th Anniversary Two-Day Celebration: The Two Rivers commemoration event included a parade, a musical, a choral concert, a fisherman's feast, a wreath-laying ceremony, exhibits, a display of artifacts, and a reception of guest dignitaries.
Rochelle Pennington is shown in the photo above left next to Dr. William Ehling. Dr. Ehling, age 82, a retired physician who traveled from central Illinois for the event, is the last surviving grandson of the original captain of the Christmas Tree Ship. He is standing beside the ship's wheel.
Rochelle has travelled to central Illinois each Christmas to spend time with the descendants of the original captain. The family "adopted" Rochelle over a decade ago when she was doing her research. Dr. Ehling reminds Rochelle always, "You are a daughter to me."
In the photo above right, the eldest great-granddaughter of Captain Santa of the Christmas Tree Ship, Barbara Ehling from Illinois, is shown furthest left, standing with (from left to right) Maggie Becker-Koeppe of Two Rivers, Wisconsin, Rochelle Pennington, and Laurel Jasmin of Manistique, Michigan. Laurel Jasmin is the Chairperson for the Christmas Tree Ship Advisory Committee in the State of Michigan. She and her team were directly responsible for the 2006 placement of the State of Michigan historical marker honoring the Christmas Tree Ship. Mrs. Jasmin stayed with the Pennington family during her three-day stay in Wisconsin. Maggie Becker-Koeppe was Chairperson of the Wisconsin 100th Anniversary Celebration in Two Rivers.
Rochelle has travelled to central Illinois each Christmas to spend time with the descendants of the original captain. The family "adopted" Rochelle over a decade ago when she was doing her research. Dr. Ehling reminds Rochelle always, "You are a daughter to me."
In the photo above right, the eldest great-granddaughter of Captain Santa of the Christmas Tree Ship, Barbara Ehling from Illinois, is shown furthest left, standing with (from left to right) Maggie Becker-Koeppe of Two Rivers, Wisconsin, Rochelle Pennington, and Laurel Jasmin of Manistique, Michigan. Laurel Jasmin is the Chairperson for the Christmas Tree Ship Advisory Committee in the State of Michigan. She and her team were directly responsible for the 2006 placement of the State of Michigan historical marker honoring the Christmas Tree Ship. Mrs. Jasmin stayed with the Pennington family during her three-day stay in Wisconsin. Maggie Becker-Koeppe was Chairperson of the Wisconsin 100th Anniversary Celebration in Two Rivers.
Pennington returned to Clement Manor Center for Enrichment for the fifth year, this time to deliver her “Christmas Tree Ship” presentation to another packed audience.
The author worked with The Weather Channel in 2003 for a television special which featured the historic Yuletide ship. The Weather Channel’s production has aired nationally every Christmas since 2004 as their Storm Stories holiday offering. Pennington was interviewed multiple times during this previous documentary.
The author worked with The Weather Channel in 2003 for a television special which featured the historic Yuletide ship. The Weather Channel’s production has aired nationally every Christmas since 2004 as their Storm Stories holiday offering. Pennington was interviewed multiple times during this previous documentary.
Chicago Christmas Tree Ship 100th Anniversary
Chicago History Museum
Rochelle Pennington was one of the featured presenters at the Chicago History Museum’s centennial commemoration ceremony honoring the loss of the original Christmas Tree Ship in 1912.
Crivitz Elementary School
Rochelle Pennington was invited to present the Christmas Tree Ship story to the entire Crivitz Elementary School. The author presented back-to-back programs all day to hundreds of enthusiastic kindergarten through sixth-grade students. In the evening, she presented the story at a dinner banquet to Board members of the Crivitz Public Library, Board members of the Northeast Reading Council, and members of the Crivitz Women's Club.
Comments from Judith Marchewka, Northeast Reading Council Board member: “It has been such a pleasure getting to know you, Rochelle, and having this experience. I also wanted to tell you what a wonderful connection you have with children of all ages, especially in making them feel that their questions and comments are truly important and special to your presentation. Our children will never forget how you made them feel. Merry Christmas!”
Comments from Judith Marchewka, Northeast Reading Council Board member: “It has been such a pleasure getting to know you, Rochelle, and having this experience. I also wanted to tell you what a wonderful connection you have with children of all ages, especially in making them feel that their questions and comments are truly important and special to your presentation. Our children will never forget how you made them feel. Merry Christmas!”
Photo above: Knights of Columbus community Christmas party for needy families
Pennington was honored to be invited to be a storyteller as part of the entertainment to over a hundred children at this annual gathering.
Pennington was honored to be invited to be a storyteller as part of the entertainment to over a hundred children at this annual gathering.
Parkview Middle School
250 sixth-grade students listened attentively to Pennington’s telling of the Christmas Tree Ship story. The author answered an entire hour’s worth of questions from the students following her speech.