Young professionals are invited to unwind, connect, and start the new year strong inside Thrill Factory’s private suite, complete with reserved bowling lanes and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a simple, easy way to meet new people and spend time with a great group.
Thank you to our January Happy Hour Sponsor: City Cast Madison
DATE TBD: Will be the week of January 12th
Centro’s annual Tres Reyes (Three Kings) Celebration is a cherished tradition that brings families together to honor culture, generosity, and unity. This year’s event will take place on Saturday, January 17, 2026, and we need your help to make it magical!
Join us as we roll up our sleeves to help Centro prepare for this beloved celebration!
Volunteers will assist with:
Organizing and setting up event spaces
Sorting and preparing toys for children
Arranging items and decorations to create a warm, welcoming environment
As a bonus, you’ll get a tour of Centro’s beautiful new building and hear from one of their leaders about the incredible work they do in our community.
Bundle up and join Madison Magnet for a fun-filled afternoon of ice skating at Tenney Park! Connect with fellow young professionals while enjoying the beauty of Madison’s winter season. Whether you’re a skating pro or a beginner, come for the conversation, laughter, and hot cocoa. Registration includes ice skate rental. If you prefer to bring your own, feel free!
NOTE: If weather conditions don’t allow us to skate, we’ll notify registrants and either move the event to an indoor happy hour or reschedule for another date.
Stop in for a comfortable evening of conversation and connection. We’ll have space to unwind, catch up with familiar faces, and meet a few new ones along the way. Happy Hours are an easy way to stay connected and enjoy one of the East Side’s standout spots.
Join us in support of Habitat for Humanity at ReStore West! Habitat for Humanity envisions "A world where everyone has a decent place to live." According to Habitat, one in eight people in Dane County lives in poverty, including 16 percent of all Dane County children.
Their ReStores raise funds to support building and development of affordable housing for families in Dane County. During the event we'll be helping the West side ReStore team maintain and improve their space.
In addition to the Magnet signup, Habitat for Humanity has an additional signup link: https://vhub.at/afhocr. Please complete prior to the event. Any questions, let us know director@madisonmagnet.org.
The Charity Fete you know and love has been rebranded as the Magnet Fete! Join us for a night of fun and philanthropy with other young professionals in the Madison area. The Magnet Fete offers an opportunity to dress up, network, and have a fun time out. The Fete will feature a wine pull and a raffle with prizes including tickets to shows, gift cards, and other great items.
This year’s Fete is benefitting Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin. Second Harvest’s mission is to end hunger in southwestern Wisconsin. They do this by providing access to nutritious, affordable, and culturally meaningful food to those in need. Serving over 16 counties, Second Harvest plays a critical role in the community by ensuring that everyone has enough food to thrive.
You do not want to miss this fun and fabulous night!
Gold Sponsors - Steve Brown Apartments
Silver Sponsors - The Employer Group, Madison Minutes, Forvis Mazars LLP, The Capital Times
Bronze Sponsors - Baer Insurance, Living in Madison, Soha Diamonds, Balanced Minds Psychotherapy, Arden Property Group
Interested in being a sponsor? Click here.
Join us for an evening of food, friends, and gratitude at Madison Magnet’s Friendsgiving! We’ll provide delicious Thanksgiving sandwiches and sides, and you’re welcome to bring along your favorite dessert or holiday dish to share.
This is the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow members, celebrate the season, and enjoy a warm, community-centered meal together. Come hungry and ready to make memories!
Join us for Part 3 of our Rising Leader Series led by Jeff Lovell and Becky Rivest of Rising Leaders Network. This session is focused on exploring how trust, character, and credibility shape your influence, and how to build intentional relationships that lead to greater influence and impact. Dinner is provided!
Join us Thursday, November 6th at The Post Bar inside the Park Hotel on the Capitol Square. Come for the conversation, stay for the connections—all in one of downtown Madison’s most distinctive and welcoming settings.
The Cap Times Power Hour, a quarterly executive series, features one-on-one future-focused conversations with Wisconsin’s top CEOs discussing business in our state.
3:30 P.M. / Check-In & Hors d'oeuvres
5 P.M. / Discussion
Brian Raffel
Studio Head
Raven Software
Brian Raffel is the Studio Head of Raven Software, a premier development studio now part of Microsoft Gaming through its 2023 acquisition of Activision Blizzard. With more than three decades in game development and studio leadership, Brian has been at the forefront of creating and shaping some of the industry’s most iconic titles.
Brian co-founded Raven Software in 1990 with his brother Steve, quickly earning acclaim with groundbreaking titles such as Heretic, Hexen, and Soldier of Fortune. In 1997, Raven was acquired by Activision, a partnership that positioned the studio to become a key contributor to globally recognized franchises. Today, Raven plays a central role in the ongoing success of Call of Duty, particularly with the evolution of Call of Duty: Warzone, the free-to-play battle royale that has captivated millions of players worldwide.
Over the years, Brian has guided Raven’s growth into a studio renowned for its creativity, technical expertise, and collaborative spirit. His leadership has ensured Raven’s enduring influence within the Activision portfolio, and now as part of Microsoft Gaming’s global development network.
Moderator: Mark Richardson, president of Unfinished Business Consulting and CEO of GigBlender.
Mark has spent the past 10 years helping professionals transition in their careers and organizations attract and acquire talent of color.
Join us at Babies and Beyond as we help sort clothes, bundle new diapers, and restock clothes and childcare equipment.
Babies and Beyond is a community resource which supports local families through stages of pregnancy and early childhood with care packages of key supplies and resources.
A gathering of purpose-driven leaders shaping the future of Wisconsin.
Join Madison 365 for a day of shared learning, connection, and strategy. The 365 Leadership Summit, brought to you by UW Credit Union, brings together leaders from across Wisconsin to reimagine leadership, expand opportunity and strategically shape a more impactful future — together.
Whether you are a current leader, a future leader, or an emerging leader, the Summit’s session tracks offer opportunities to learn, connect, and grow. From bold ideas and practical tools to resilience and pathways of opportunity, these panels and workshops are designed to strengthen leadership and spark impact across Wisconsin.
Enjoy refreshing mocktails while we have a few of our Lands’ End Young Professionals guide us through product throughout the store. In support of the One Warm Coat drive currently being hosted at the store, we encourage attendees to bring a gently used coat or jacket to donate, if possible.
Join us for Part 2 of our Rising Leader Series led by Jeff Lovell and Becky Rivest of Leaders Rising Network. This session is focused on developing a deeper self-awareness and uncovering patterns that affect how you lead, communicate, and respond under stress. Dinner is provided!
Join Magnet for a spooky fun time as we head to Schuster's Farm in Deerfield for our Halloween inspired event! Help us find our way out of their corn maze and after we will meet up to chat, relax, and share ghost stories around the bonfire pit! Come join us for a great night you won't want to miss!
Join your fellow Magnet Members for our Fourth Madison Magnet Business Book Club. We will be reviewing and discussing the book; The ONE Thing by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan. Read the book in advance and come with your thoughts and questions! You can find it at most Public Libraries and online. Well meet at a the Leopold's Book Nook. See you there!
From Renter to Revenue: Intro to Investment Properties
Ready to turn rent checks into revenue streams? Join us for an energetic evening designed for young, modern professionals curious about building wealth through real estate. Whether you’ve been eyeing your first rental, fascinated by the idea of flipping homes, or eager to explore strategies like the BRRRR method (Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, Repeat), this event is your perfect starting point.
We’ll cover the fundamentals of getting started with investment properties, share insider insights, and set you up with practical steps to begin your journey toward financial freedom.
Enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere with hors d’oeuvres and refreshments while connecting with like-minded professionals who are ready to take their first step from renter to revenue.
Hosted by Lauren Stark, Realtor with Sprinkman Real Estate and Kylie Ahrens, Loan Officer with Guild Mortgage
Join us Thursday, October 2nd at The Forward Club at Breese Stevens Field for an evening of connection, conversation, and community. It’s a chance to build your network, explore new opportunities, and enjoy one of Madison’s most iconic venues with fellow professionals.
Join us for Part 1 of our Rising Leader Series led by Jeff Lovell and Becky Rivest of Leaders Rising Network. This session is focused on discovering how to stay energized, manage your well-being, and bring your best self to every environment — professionally and personally.
Join Madison Magnet for a Volunteer Day at Heartland Farm Sanctuary on Tuesday, September 23rd!
Come lend a hand as we support Heartland Farm Sanctuary, a local nonprofit doing incredible work to connect people and farm animals. We'll be helping with outdoor animal care tasks such as mucking stalls, cleaning, moving hay and straw, and possibly assisting with special projects for the animal care program.
This is a fantastic opportunity to give back to the community and spend time in a meaningful, hands-on way. Be sure to wear shoes you don’t mind getting dirty—we’ll definitely be getting muddy!
Join Madison Magnet for our 7th Annual Cheese Curd Crawl as we make our way to local favorites in Downtown Middleton to sample some of the best cheese curds in town.
We’ll visit 2–3 restaurants around the Downtown Middleton—meeting location details will be shared with all registered attendees closer to the event.
Your registration includes:
Cheese curds at each stop
A surprise crawl accessory (TBA)
Drinks and additional food will be available for purchase separately. Don’t miss this cheesy tradition!
Come join Madison Magnet on Saturday, September 6th, at 1:30pm as we volunteer to help serve concessions during a UW Badger Football game with RISE WI! RISE services help to provide education, support, stabilization, and coordination of care to children, families, and individuals in our community. The concessions sold will go to help this amazing local organization! As an extra bonus, there will be free food and drink for all those who volunteer! Come out and join us as we serve up some fun, along with some food, to help out our local Madison community!
Join us Thursday, September 4th at Garver Feed Mill for a relaxed evening of conversation and connection. Surrounded by the character and charm of one of Madison’s most celebrated spaces, this is your chance to unwind, meet new faces, and strengthen your ties to the community.
Fore! Come play a round of Miniature Golf with Magnet! We will be putting our putt-putt skills to the test at the course at Vitense. Feel free to stay after your round as we gather in the bar for some drinks afterwards to connect and mingle!
Join Magnet for our Annual Pride Paddle! We'll celebrate the areas Lakes and each other with a few hours of paddling around Lake Monona. There are options to bring your own boat or rent one from Brittingham Boats. Food, beverages, and music to be included. You must register by August 12th.
Event Schedule:
5:15-5:45pm: Registration
5:50pm: Welcome, Gather Boats
6pm-8pm: Kayaking Available
7pm-8pm: Live Music by Patrick Gerard; Food and Beverages Served, Raffle Giveaway
Menu:
Pizza & Salads by Glass Nickel Pizza
Local Craft Beer, Sodas
Thank you to our event sponsor: ImpactLife
The Cap Times Power Hour, a quarterly executive series, features one-on-one future-focused conversations with Wisconsin’s top CEOs discussing business in our state.
3:45 P.M. / Check-In & Hors d'Oeuvres
5 P.M. / Discussion
Joe Hamilton
CEO | Entrepreneur | Visionary Leader
Vortex Optics
Joe Hamilton knows what it takes to build something extraordinary. From stocking shelves in his family’s small retail store in Madison, Wisconsin, to leading Vortex Optics—the world’s leading brand in hunting, shooting, and outdoor optics.
As CEO of Vortex Optics, Joe helped transform a small, family-run business—founded by his father—into a globally recognized powerhouse and has propelled Vortex beyond products and into an iconic lifestyle brand.
Moderator: Mark Richardson, president of Unfinished Business Consulting and CEO of GigBlender.
Mark has spent the past 10 years helping professionals transition in their careers and organizations attract and acquire talent of color.
Join us on Wednesday, August 7th for an evening of connection and conversation at the timeless Mansion Hill Inn. Whether you're building new relationships or reconnecting with familiar faces, this is your invitation to unwind, engage, and be part of Madison’s dynamic professional community.
Are you new to Magnet or considering joining? Do you want to meet more people? Join us at Magnet Morning Coffee! This month we are meeting at Café Domestique-North street to network, talk all things Magnet and answer any questions you may have. You don't want to miss this fun morning event.
Join us for a good time and a good cause! We'll volunteer our time to bartend during the annual Atwood Fest music festival. Learn more about the festival at atwoodfest.com. Additional key details will be shared a few days prior to the event.
Cruise into summer with Magnet as we explore the Lake Monona Loop on electric bikes—no sweat, just scenic views and great company. After the ride, we’ll wind down with drinks and conversation at the Olbrich Beer Garden. A perfect blend of fresh air, fun, and networking!
1-3pm Bike Ride (Lake Monona Loop)
3-4pm Drinks at Olbrich Beer Garden
Join your fellow Magnet Members for our Third Madison Magnet Business Book Club. We will be reviewing and discussing the book; The Power Of Instinct by Leslie Zane an Award-Winning Fortune 500 Brand Consultant. Read the book in advance and come with your thoughts and questions! You can find it at most Public Libraries and online. Well meet at a the Leopold's Book Nook. See you there!
Join us for our July happy hour on Thursday, July 10th at The Village Green in Middleton. Happy hours are a great opportunity for networking, chatting with friends, supporting a local organization, and meeting new people in the Madison community!
Experience new food with Magnet! Join us as we explore the different cuisines Dane County has to offer. You will be able to enjoy awesome food and network with other young professionals. Don't miss these adventurous dinners!
Magnet will provide appetizers. You are expected to pay for your own meal and tip. Registration closes June 22.
Join us for our annual member appreciation event on Friday, June 20 at 6:35pm for a Madison Mallards baseball game! We appreciate you being a member so we’re giving you a sweet deal… only $10 for you and $10 for one guest to watch the Mallards game in a suite AND all you can eat and drink. Spots will be limited!
We strive to be an inclusive organization and encourage our members to engage with, learn from, and develop an understanding of others. We prioritize the safety of our community and expect behavior that exhibits respect for all people and supports these values at all Magnet gatherings.
Join us for 'Headshot to Hired,' a can't-miss opportunity to upgrade your personal branding with a new headshot, receive advice from a UW School of Business Career Coach, AND network with professionals from Madison Magnet, Urban League of Greater Madison, and StartingBlock: Madison's Startup Hub. This event offers invaluable insights for career advancement plus FREE, Professional Headshots for Magnet members. Non-members can still seize the opportunity to attend and opt in for a $30 headshot session. Don't miss this chance to boost your branding for more opportunities!
