Perspectives, views and outlooks from some of our own.
Our Stories
Telisa Yancy
After living in several major metros, American Family Insurance Enterprise President Telisa Yancy found the right mixture of small city charm and big city dreams in Madison. It is that perfect balance of density and scale that enables collaboration and new ideas to grow. Through strategic investments in new affinity spaces and community gathering, the next wave of innovation is happening here.
“Madison is a place where doers, dreamers and achievers are embraced.”
– Telisa Yancy
Enterprise President, American Family Insurance
“Here, I feel heard. I feel seen.”
– Victoria Thayer
Founder, Novii CPA
Victoria Thayer
Originally from Venezuela, Victoria came to Madison for school and stayed for the life that Madison offered. The region’s vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem enabled her to forge new connections and a self-belief to start her own business. The concentration of support organizations and rising tide collective mentality of business leaders contribute to Madison’s vitality and recognition as a world-class innovation hub.
Sam Li
Sam Li has lived in many places and has been asked many times why he doesn’t take his cinematography talents to LA, New York City, or Atlanta. While those major metros might be highlighted more on the big screen, Madison’s creative economy offers something unique for those wanting to experience something new, build something real, stand out and make a difference.
“If you don’t know anything about Madison, I think you just need to come see it for yourself.”
– Sam Li
Cinematographer/Photographer
“We’re building structures and businesses and spaces to welcome people and say, you are home. You belong here.”
– Rev. Dr. Alex Gee
Lead Pastor, Fountain of Life Church
President and Founder, Nehemiah Center for Urban Leadership Development
Dr. Alex Gee
With a career spanning three decades, Dr. Alex Gee knows Madison. It is a place where you don’t get lost in a sea of people. It is a place with empathy and access. A place of progress without complacency. And with rapid change and growth, it is a place where you can make a difference and fuel what’s next. And according to Dr. Gee, there has never been a better time to make Madison your home.
Ana Hooker
It is the perfect blend of size and scale that attracted Ana Hooker to Madison. Here, she is able to work for an innovative company in a nationally-recognized biohealth ecosystem, while also make a life in a community that is supportive, engaged and driven to break barriers. As a medium-sized city, individuals have the opportunity to amplify their voices and their presence.
“Use your platform. Use the opportunity… and Madison is that platform and that opportunity.”
– Ana Hooker
Chief Laboratory Officer, Exact Sciences