First Lady Tonette Walker was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Following a career of more than 20 years in the insurance industry, she went on to work for the American Diabetes Association. Currently, she works in the development department of the American Lung Association.

In her role as first lady, Mrs. Walker enjoys advocating for the well-being of the people of Wisconsin.  In particular, she looks forward to working in partnership with various foundations and nonprofit organizations to better recognize, understand, and address the needs of parents and children involved in the foster care system.

Mrs. Walker also works regularly with Teen Challenge of Wisconsin, a faith-based organization dedicated to the healing and rehabilitation of teens and young adults with substance abuse addictions. The first lady works to raise awareness for the group throughout the state and assists Teen Challenge in their fundraising and expansion efforts.

In response to the devastating Japanese tsunami and earthquakes of 2011, Mrs. Walker spearheaded the Wisconsin-Chiba Japan Relief Project, an ongoing effort to provide financial assistance to Japan in its time of need.

Additionally, the first lady invites the people of Wisconsin to “Walk with Walker,” as she visits some of Wisconsin’s most picturesque trails, parks, and landscapes, promoting health and fitness while showcasing some of the beautiful but lesser known sites across the state.

The first lady and her husband, Governor Scott Walker, share their time between Madison and Wauwatosa, where sons Matt and Alex attend high school.