The 2026 40 Under 40s will be announced this week! Watch for more info and a registration link to our awards event May 28! Meantime, meet one of our 2025 40 Under 40s:
Maddy Szymanski, Annual Giving Coordinator for CP
Looking back, what personal experiences or milestones have had the greatest influence on your professional success?
I founded Lucky 7 Dog Rescue in 2015 as a sophomore in college, and it remains one of the most influential experiences of my professional life. It sparked my passion for volunteerism, nonprofit work, and building strong community connections. Over the past decade, I’ve faced challenges, made mistakes, and grown in ways I never anticipated. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of support. As a fully volunteer-run organization, Lucky 7 has thrived for 10 years thanks to the unwavering dedication of our volunteers and the incredible support from our community.
What do you wish more people understood about your field or industry?
I wish more people understood just how impactful and dynamic the nonprofit sector truly is. Behind every mission is a carefully managed organization that requires strategic thinking, financial planning, and strong leadership. Just like any other industry, success in the nonprofit world demands innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to continuous growth.
Can you share one of the most significant challenges you’ve faced in your career and how you overcame it?
Balancing my passion for the organizations I’m involved with while also being a present wife, mother, and friend — all while making time for self-care. When you deeply care about the work you’re doing, it’s easy to pour all your energy into it, often at the expense of your own well-being and personal relationships. What helped me overcome this challenge was recognizing that I can’t pour from an empty cup. I’ve also embraced the power of delegation and teamwork. Ultimately, I’ve realized that balance isn’t about perfection — it’s about being fully present in whatever role I’m in at the moment.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, and who gave it to you?
The best piece of advice I’ve ever received came from my mom. She always taught me to stay true to my values and my heart. She would remind me that trusting your gut and standing up for what’s right will always outlive anything else. Her guidance has been a compass for me, especially in moments where I’ve had to make tough decisions, and it’s helped me stay grounded and focused on what truly matters. Her wisdom continues to shape the way I approach both my personal and professional life.
Is there any additional information you would like to share?
I want to emphasize how important it is for people to embrace their individuality and authenticity. So often, we’re told what we should be or do, but the truth is, each person has a unique path, and it’s essential to honor that. People don’t have to conform to the expectations of the world around them. You can follow your dreams, pursue your passions, and create lasting change in your own way.
