Laura joined the CEDA team in October 2023 as a Community and Business Development Specialist in the Cities of Benson and Murdock. She graduated from Mayville State University with a degree in Mathematics Education and decided after a decade of teaching to make a change. She grew up in a small town of Ada, MN in the Red River Valley where small-town development is key to the town’s survival. This knowledge and strong connection to her small town drives her passion for development in the communities she serves.  She is excited to build strong relationships within her communities and help them thrive!

Laura lives outside of Benson with her husband and two young girls. If she is not watching some new show or movie on TV, she is playing with her kids outside or helping her husband with the cattle on his family farm.

Maddi joined the CEDA team in April 2025. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and a certification in Project Management. Prior to joining CEDA, Maddi gained valuable experience in project coordination and marketing/community engagement. Her background has sharpened her skills in strategic and creative thinking, as well as in fostering strong relationships and building partnerships within the community.

Originally from Fargo, ND, Maddi has always had a deep appreciation for small-town living, with both sides of her family residing in rural North Dakota. She now lives in Elbow Lake, MN, with her fiancé and their golden retriever, Kona. Maddi's favorite days of the year include the first day of March Madness, the Kentucky Derby, and any day the Packers beat the Vikings.