About Me

Bio

I grew up on a crop and livestock farm in Streator, IL, and as the saying goes, “you can take the girl off the farm, but not the farm out of the girl.” After 30+ years of entrepreneurship, I’ve come full circle—returning to the land with a new focus on regenerative agriculture.

In 2001, I purchased my first 50 acres, eventually growing the farm to 250 acres. While a tenant farmer has managed the corn and soybean production, I’ve worked to enhance the land through USDA conservation programs, planting CRP areas, establishing wildlife areas, and maintaining border strips. Now, I’m partnering with the Rademachers to transition the cropland to regenerative practices while also raising grass-fed sheep at Bluestem Springs Farm.

Before farming full-time, I was the co-founder and owner of Taylor Studios, Inc., where I led a talented team in designing and fabricating museum exhibits for over 700 projects across 45 states and four countries. I ran the business for over 30 years, earning recognition such as the Inc. Female Founders 100 list and multiple Inc. 500 awards. In 2021, I sold the company and stayed on through 2022 to assist with the transition.

Beyond the farm, I stay engaged with entrepreneurship, horses, and lifelong learning. I’m always taking on new challenges—whether it’s training a mustang, reading about history, learning about video editing, or watching farming and business videos.

If you’re interested in regenerative agriculture, small business insights, or building a meaningful and successful life, I’d love to connect!

Education

Southwest Missouri State University – MBA, 1991

Southern Illinois University - BS – Marketing, 1989

Awards & Achievements

• 2020 Inc. Female Founders 100

• 2012 Longevity Through Innovation Award - Champaign County EDC

• 2011 Outstanding Woman You Should Know - Illini Radio

• 2009 Inspiring Woman Alumna Achievement Award - SIU

• 2009 Inc. 5000

• 2007 Inc. 5000

• 2006 SIU Hall of Fame for the College of Business Administration