ASHLEIGH POWELL, President
I’m Ashleigh Powell, and I’m so excited to be your president! I previously served as Social Chair for 4 years. I joined LGNN shortly after moving to La Grange in 2020. Along with my husband and 2 daughters, we are a family that loves traveling and participating in outdoor adventures. We have an adorable dog named Sal that I love to spoil. I’ve recently decided to improve my gardening skills, and I’m also an avid reader. Being active with the LGNN Board has led to meeting so many amazing women and I love getting to help our community and this organization.
LAURA TESTA, President Emeritus
Hi, my name is Laura Testa and I am honored to serve as President Emeritus! I'm originally from the northern suburbs and lived in Chicago before coming out to the La Grange area with my husband, John, and daughter, Lillian. I joined LGNN in 2020 and the Board in 2021, previously serving as chairs of Charity/Service and Membership. I work for a local healthcare system as an attorney. In addition to family time, I enjoy volunteering with the Ogden PTC, reading (shout out to LGNN book club!), date nights/girls nights out, Peloton, attending sporting events/concerts/musicals, traveling, and watching ridiculous reality TV.
DANIELLE KOLB, Vice President
Hi everyone! I’m Dani, and I’m so happy to be your VP of LGNN! I joined LGNN after moving to La Grange in 2021 from Chicago’s Printers Row neighborhood. I quickly fell in love with La Grange and feel so grateful to be raising my three children in such a wonderful community. LGNN has been such a special part of my time here, and I’m incredibly thankful for the friendships and connections I’ve made with so many amazing women over the years.
A little about me: I own a wedding planning business, Danielle Kolb Events, where I have the joy of planning weddings throughout the Chicago area. When I’m not working or spending time with my kiddos, you can usually find me trying a new restaurant, reading, cooking, traveling, or enjoying time with old and new friends. I’m so excited for another year with LGNN and look forward to getting to know even more of you!
SARA CRAWFORD, Secretary
I'm Sara Crawford and I will be serving again as LGNN Secretary this year. My husband, Jake, my toddler son, Rhys, my newborn daughter, Sadie, and my some-sort-of-poodle mix, Rosie, live in La Grange Park. I have worked as a teacher, instructional coach and assistant principal, but am mostly now doing what I enjoy the most- taking care of my kids! I am also passionate about literacy access and education and do some private tutoring and dyslexia therapy at the Children's Dyslexia Center of LaGrange. I love traveling, reading, being outdoors, reality television, and live music. I've been so inspired by the wonderful women of LGNN, and look forward to continuing to build connection and camaraderie in our community!
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KRISTEN VANDERVELDE, Treasurer
I'm Kristen VanderVelde, and I am happy to serve as the LGNN Treasurer. In November 2024, after 17 years in the city, I moved from Bucktown to La Grange Park with my husband, Rich, and our cat, Elo. We love that we found such a historic and vibrant suburb to call home, and we recently visited the La Grange Historical Society to learn more about the history of our house built in 1893 - the ghosts of past residents have a tale to tell! I'm a program director by day, and in my spare time, I enjoy reading, traveling, gardening, yoga, and my guilty pleasure - reality TV. :) LGNN has been such a fun addition to living in the La Grange area. There are so many ways to get involved, and I HIGHLY recommend the monthly book club!
KELLY O'HARA, Book Club
My name is Kelly O'Hara and I am looking forward to serving as a Book Club co-chair. I moved to La Grange in 2021 and have fallen in love with this community. My husband, Jim, and I have three children- Eleanor is 7, Grace is 5, and James is 3. We also have a goldendoodle named Rudy. After teaching 3rd and 4th grade for 12 years, I decided to stay home with my kids. I joined LGNN in 2023 and have co-chaired Membership and Ladies & Littles. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, volunteering at the kids' schools, traveling, and spending time with my family and friends.
ERIN PRINDLE, Book Club
I’m Erin Prindle - your Book Club co-chair. I live in the historical district of La Grange with my husband Ryan and our three girls Lila (6), Ada (4) and Mia (2). We absolutely love this community and the warm and neighborly people that make it home. By day, I am an AVP, Account Manager in the insurance industry. By night, I am a Director of Chaos at home. This doesn’t leave much time for else these days but when those rare moments appear, I love a great cup of coffee, romance novels, cooking healthy meals, wine tasting, meeting up with friends and cheering on my beloved Chicago Bears. I have been a member of LGNN for seven years and this will be my fifth year on the board. I am so inspired by this amazingly talented group of women and am honored to have a little piece in it.
TESS WEBER, Charity & Service
My name is Tess Weber, and I'm thrilled to be the Charity & Service Co-Chair. I'm a proud resident of La Grange, where I live with my husband Ryan, my 7-year-old daughter, a second grader at Cossitt, and my 4-year-old son who attends pre-k at both Methodist and Barnsdale. My family and I relocated to La Grange due to my husband's job with CNA Insurance in February 2020. Before making La Grange our home, we spent 10 wonderful years in Pittsburgh, PA. However, my roots are originally in the beautiful Florida Keys, where I spent my formative years. I'm truly grateful to have lived in such diverse places and am excited to bring my experiences to the La Grange community as the Vice President of LGNN. In addition to my family life, I run a small social media business dedicated to helping local businesses in La Grange. I'm excited to build upon my past experience as the Social Committee Co-Chair and Marketing Chair, and make a meaningful impact in my new role.
MARISSA CLAXON, Charity & Service
JILLIAN MAROTTA, Empty Nesters
I'm Jillian Marotta, Empty Nesters co-chair. I joined LGNN two years ago and have loved the events, activities, and friendships I've made in the community. Professionally, I am the owner and Creative Director of Dragonfly Designs, Inc. (since 2009), having transitioned away from a career in Pediatric Intensive Care. After raising my three sons in Oak Park, we moved to the area in 2010. Today, my only roommate is my 95-pound bulldog, Vivienne! When I'm not tackling a new home remodeling project, I love reading, cooking, entertaining, trying new restaurants, gardening, and crafting. I also play softball, pickleball, and golf (all with mediocrity!) and am a fanatical fan of the Sox, Bears, and ND football.
LARISSA FALCO, Empty Nesters
My name is Larissa Falco. I have lived in LaGrange for 7yrs and have been a member of LGNN for about 5yrs. I am a recent empty nester, my youngest off to college I am left with my husband, Mike and our dog Angel.Our two oldest daughters have just moved in together. I enjoy golfing,( I am not great but I am getting better), Pickleball, (same goes for that), I think I am artsy and I like to read. You can often find me at the bar at Fourteen Sixteen or at the LaGrange Country Club.
PATRICIA MANDARINO, Empty Nesters
Hello all! I am happily serving as co-chair for Empty Nesters. I have been and will continue to coordinate Wellness activities for the group as well. I’ve lived in LaGrange since 2017. I joined LGNN in 2023 and became a part of Empty Nesters shortly thereafter.
I have recently retired from my career of 37+ years as a Technology Consultant and have been an empty nester for many years. I keep busy with a variety of fun and interesting things. I’m endlessly curious about active aging and longevity. I love reading, learning, experimenting, and doing my best to live out the basics: eat well, sleep enough, move often, stay mentally sharp, and keep great people close.
That’s where the LGNN community shines. It keeps me connected to a vibrant group of smart, fun, like-minded women. Let’s learn, engage and have some fun!
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LYNNE KRALOVEC, Gourmet
I am Lynne Kralovec and I am currently serving as the Gourmet Co-Chair. My husband and I moved from Chicago to La Grange in 2021 with our goldendoodle, Eddie. Our son, Jacob, was born in 2022 and we have another baby boy on the way. I joined LGNN in 2024 and quickly became a board co-chair as I find community involvement rewarding and recall it being an integral part of my childhood. I love all things food related, cooking, dining out, menu planning and most importantly, eating. I am looking forward to planning fun events and engaging with this wonderful community.
HANNAH KROPP, Gourmet
My name is Hannah Kropp and I am the Co-Chair for Gourmet. I joined LGNN in 2023. I’m originally from Minnesota and have lived in Chicago, Philadelphia and New York City, but love calling La Grange my permanent home after moving here in 2020. I live in the historic district with my husband Mike, son Charlie (2) and middle-aged, overweight cat Phoebe. In my professional life, I’m a corporate lawyer, but my true passion is food. I love to cook, bake and (most importantly) eat and am excited to share the joy of bonding over food with LGNN members. In addition to food, I love talking all things books, skin care, celebrity gossip, astrology, hot yoga, Bravo and travel, particularly to US national parks.
DANIELLE MAREK, Ladies & Littles
I am Danielle Marek, co-chair for Ladies and Littles. My husband, Matt, and I moved from Chicago to La Grange in 2023 and are so happy to be part of such a vibrant and welcoming community. Our son, Lucas, was born in 2024. I joined LGNN in February 2025 in search of a book club and new friends, and I could not be happier with my decision. In my free time, I enjoy working out, reading, exploring new places, and trying new restaurants.
BEATA KASIA, Ladies & Littles
TARA KELLER, Moms & Middles
Hi, I’m Tara Keller. I have been a member of LGNN since I moved to La Grange in 2018. This is my second year on the board and I’m excited to head up Moms & Middles! My two daughters are entering 8th at Park Junior High and 4th grade at Ogden. I’m hoping to offer some fun and unique events throughout the year!
KARLA SCHWAEGERMAN, Marketing/Social Media
Hi! My name is Karla, and I am so excited to join the La Grange Neighbors and Newcomers Board as the marketing/social media chair! I joined LGNN in 2023 after resigning from my position as a mental health counselor to become a stay-at-home mom but ultimately finding the need to socialize and meet others. Unlike the other members, my husband and I, our 2-year-old daughter Ella, our 3-month-old son Sebastian, and 2 giant Great Pyrenees dogs reside in the city due to my husband’s career serving the city of Chicago as a police officer. My husband grew up in La Grange, and I grew up nearby in the southwest suburbs. We absolutely love everything about the village of La Grange and hope to eventually move back to fully raise our children there. I currently am a content creator, which grants me a flexible schedule that allows me to have as much family time as I want as well as the ability to explore and enjoy a variety of restaurants, museums, parks, and businesses while also meeting new people. I can't wait to explore and grow with this community. And as a final fun fact: if there is anything matcha, I’ll make sure to try it!
JILL McCORMICK, Membership
Hi! I’m Jill McCormick, your membership co-chair, and I absolutely love being part of LGNN. It’s such a privilege to serve on the board and welcome new members! My husband Jim and I moved to La Grange Park in 2022 with our two kids (at LT & Loyola). Coming to a new community where I only knew my husband was challenging, but LGNN has been such a gift—providing friendship, support, and belonging that made all the difference. Professionally, I’m a financial planner who helps people prepare for their futures. What I treasure most in my career is building meaningful relationships with my clients—much like what makes LGNN so special. I also serve on boards for Community Assisted Rides (CARS) and OptWell, both local nonprofits. When I’m not volunteering, you’ll find me shopping, dining out with friends, golfing, or doing La Gree. Besides my husband, the love of my life is Maddon, my little Cavapoo, so if you're a dog mom too, let’s set up a play date!
ANITA KEWALRAMANI, Membership
I’m Anita Kewalramani, a local general pediatrician, and I’ve been living in La Grange since 2012. My husband and I stay on our toes raising our three daughters and our 2-year-old Australian Labradoodle, Auggie. Having previously served as Charity Co-Chair a few years after moving to town, I’m excited to return to the LGNN board as Membership Co-Chair! I love connecting with the incredible women in our community and can’t wait to help new members feel welcome.
LAURA NORTHAM, Newsletter and Website
Hi, I'm Laura Northam and I manage the LGNN newsletter and website. I live in La Grange Park with my husband, our two children and one cat. We have been in the area since 2017 and just love it! I enjoy spending time with family and friends, cooking, watching old TV shows, a good cup of coffee or wine and watching sports, in particular, the Cleveland Browns! This is my third year on the LGNN board and I'm thrilled to be a part of this amazing group!
KAIT VAN CLEAVE, Social
I'm Kait Van Cleave. I live in La Grange with my husband, Todd, and our three young children. Joining the board as co-chair of the social committee felt like a perfect match for me, as I have always been enthusiastic about connecting with people and seeking opportunities for collaboration. I take great pride in being part of LGNN and contributing to its many achievements. Most of my time is spent with my family, gardening, and cooking. I have a deep love for animals and Formula 1 racing!
DANIELLE STEED, Social
Hello! My name is Danielle, and I’m thrilled to serve as Social Co-Chair on the LGNN Board. My husband and I moved from Chicago to La Grange Park in 2021 with our German Shepherd, Layla. Since then, we’ve renovated our home, planned and had a fabulous local wedding in downtown La Grange, and recently welcomed our first child, Atlas. We love exploring the area—dining at spots like Kama and The Elm, attending charity events whenever possible, and never missing a chance for live music. Safe to say, we quickly fell in love with all that La Grange has to offer. I first joined LGNN after spotting an event where everyone seemed so friendly, welcoming, and full of energy. I signed up soon after and have been having a blast ever since—whether it’s attending smaller group gatherings, joining the kickball league, and my favorite event thus far, the Porch Party. Professionally, I spent 10 years in downtown Chicago property management while also working as a Realtor. Recently, I made the leap to full-time Realtor and stay-at-home mom. In my spare time, I enjoy sewing, experimenting with new recipes, and tackling fun home projects. I’m excited to bring my planning and networking skills to this role, helping to create fun, inclusive, and memorable events for all LGNN members!
KATHRYN MCCANN, Social
CARLA CARTER, Wellness
I’m Carla Carter, co-chair of the Wellness Committee. I’m originally from Michigan but moved to Chicago after college. I’m an intellectual property attorney and commercial litigator. While law in my job, my passion is Pilates. I love teaching in my spare time. I live in La Grange with my husband and have three teenagers—two at LTHS and one at college. I enjoy cooking, being social and traveling.
HOLLY KING, Wellness
I’m Holly and I joined LGNN a couple years ago. As a yoga teacher and self care enthusiast, I am excited to join the board as Wellness co-chair. I grew up in the southwest suburbs but moved to Sydney after meeting a cute boy and marrying him almost immediately. Since then, two goldendoodles, a set of twin boys, and our daughter have completed our family. We moved back stateside and settled in La Grange in 2018. I love to travel, read, and spend as much time as I can outdoors- whether it’s drinks on a rooftop or a run through the woods.