Exciting News: Introducing Our New Collaborative Leadership Model

Photos: Allison Mosley Photography

The Madison Reading Project Board of Directors is excited to announce a new co-leadership model to continuously shape our future, strengthen our literacy programs' viability, and increase capacity. Through strategic planning, coaching, listening, and learning; we’ve taken time to reflect on what’s served us well over the past few years, which has been a period of incredible growth for MRP. We found our strength lies within the sum of unique individuals and supporters who bring different perspectives and experiences to our work.

MRP founder and visionary, Rowan Childs, and Deirdre Steinmetz, long-time MRP leader and program director, are now Co-Executive Directors of the Madison Reading Project! Deirdre will spearhead our Programs and Operations, while Rowan will focus on our Communications and Development. Rowan’s strong background in communications, cultivating relationships with our community, and social entrepreneurship are complemented by Deirdre’s extensive background in education, adaptive leadership, and program development.

We’ve always been an organization that values innovation, collaboration, and support which is what we’re hoping to reflect in all aspects of our work. Our new Co-Directors, staff, and Board of Directors are excited to continue providing impactful services to the community and our inspiring leaders to propel our mission forward.

Photos: Allison Mosley Photography

In addition to the change in our leadership model, we also want to shine a light on our amazing team at MRP and some of the promotions, new roles, and new staff that have joined our team:

Natalie Holdahl, a member of the MRP team since 2019 was promoted to Program Director

Emily Wills joined the organization in April as our Development Director

Mellisa Hornung, a long-time MRP volunteer and supporter became our Little Free Library Coordinator

Haley Borgrud, who is celebrating her 1st anniversary, stepped into a new role as our Communications and Events Specialist

Also new in 2024 are Kat O’Callaghan, Carina Koch on our program team, and Mia Sowders, our current Development Intern. Learn more about our team, here.