2026 Lecture by Jenny Fischer

Jenny Fischer is the senior social and digital content lead overseeing on-site coverage, real-time strategy, and content creation to execution for the NBA. With a background founded in journalism and multi-platform content production, the Hartland, Wisconsin native has driven record-breaking engagement for the NBA in her seven years with the league.

Prior to the NBA, Fischer worked in Marquette Athletics, reported on-air for the BIG EAST Conference, and served as an NCAA as a postgraduate intern.

Fischer has led coverage at marquee NBA events, such as the Finals, All-Star Game and various Global Games. She also served as a producer on Netflix’s documentary "Court of Gold," which chronicled the 2024 USAB Olympic Team.

Outside of her professional accomplishments, Fischer is known for her mental health fundraising and advocacy. Her “Keep Showing Up” t-shirts have raised more than $150,000 for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

 

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About the Axthelm Memorial Program

The Pete and Bonnie Axthelm Memorial Program was established in 1994 at Marquette University (Milwaukee, Wisconsin) to acknowledge and recognize the life of Pete Axthelm and his sister Bonnie. Every year this program awards a scholarship to an outstanding Marquette journalism student with an expressed interest in sports journalism.

Pete Axthelm was one of America's foremost sports journalists. Although a Yale alum, he created ties to Marquette University while working on his critically acclaimed book, "The City Game," which covers the glory and tragedy of New York basketball. While writing and researching his book, Axthelm sought the expertise of such Marquette notables as Al McGuire, Pat Smith, and Dean Meminger.

During his distinguished career as a sportswriter and columnist for the New York Herald Tribune, Sports Illustrated and Newsweek, Pete established a reputation as a gifted journalist. His knowledge of sports combined with his journalistic skills led him to sports commentator positions for NBC and ESPN.

Bonnie Axthelm was among the highest ranking women at 3M Europe during her lifetime. She began her notable career as a secretary at Media Networks Incorporated, eventually rising through the company to hold the top position of Executive Director of Corporate Marketing and Public Affairs. Bonnie’s name was added to the memorial scholarship after her death in 1998.