About Maddy
Maddy joined the Elawa Farm team in March 2026 as Director of Operations. Maddy began her career in operations management on the property management team for the 1.5 million square foot Accenture Tower (Ogilvie Transportation Center), where she was the primary facilitator for a wide range of 90+ tenants, including federal agencies and international offices. She later spent three years with Terlato Wines as Hospitality Manager, leading large-scale events and overseeing complex logistics and guest experiences, both locally and internationally. Most recently, she served as Director of Operations at St. Pauls UCC in Chicago, where she led multi-department operations, the development and implementation of standard operating procedures, and community engagement initiatives.
She brings more than 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, including serving as a Big Sister and mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Chicago and as an Adoption Counselor with PAWS Chicago.
A native of Winnetka, Illinois, Maddy holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and Studio Art from the University of Denver. She developed an early appreciation for agriculture and the natural world while spending time on her grandparents’ farm in central Illinois—an experience that continues to shape her passion for farm-based education and sustainability.
Maddy is a dedicated animal advocate with a strong interest in conservation, including a memorable experience trekking with gorillas and chimpanzees in Uganda in 2025. She is excited to bring her operational expertise and love of mission-driven work to Elawa Farm!
Favorite produce from the garden: Snow peas
Favorite flower found at Elawa Farm: Nepeta