Madison is photographed wearing our Eileen Relaxed Button-Up in White Casual Cotton with the Derry Signature Jean in 2001 wash and our Montecito Classic Pullover Sweater in Marine.
MADISON: After a few years in consulting and strategy work, I felt confident in my analytical and business toolkit, but I knew that becoming the leader I aspired to be required more than just hard skills. I wanted to grow as a compassionate, people-first leader who inspires others. That’s what drew me to Stanford’s Graduate School of Business. The GSB’s emphasis on interpersonal connection and self-discovery gave me the space to learn and refine my leadership style, teaching me how to motivate others in a way that feels authentic to me.
MADISON: After a few years in consulting and strategy work, I felt confident in my analytical and business toolkit, but I knew that becoming the leader I aspired to be required more than just hard skills. I wanted to grow as a compassionate, people-first leader who inspires others. That’s what drew me to Stanford’s Graduate School of Business. The GSB’s emphasis on interpersonal connection and self-discovery gave me the space to learn and refine my leadership style, teaching me how to motivate others in a way that feels authentic to me.
MADISON: I am inspired by Frank & Eileen’s commitment to empowering women through entrepreneurship. Research shows that women are less likely than men to pursue entrepreneurship, yet when they do, they often outperform their male counterparts! Audrey’s dedication to creating a supportive environment for women entrepreneurs is pivotal in encouraging more women to get involved. Audrey is helping women feel empowered to take risks, follow their passions, and build businesses that reflect who they are. Being part of the Frank & Eileen Fellowship—and a community that values authenticity and empowerment—is both meaningful and incredibly motivating to me.
MADISON: I am inspired by Frank & Eileen’s commitment to empowering women through entrepreneurship. Research shows that women are less likely than men to pursue entrepreneurship, yet when they do, they often outperform their male counterparts! Audrey’s dedication to creating a supportive environment for women entrepreneurs is pivotal in encouraging more women to get involved. Audrey is helping women feel empowered to take risks, follow their passions, and build businesses that reflect who they are. Being part of the Frank & Eileen Fellowship—and a community that values authenticity and empowerment—is both meaningful and incredibly motivating to me.
Madison is photographed wearing our Eileen Relaxed Button-Up in White Casual Cotton with the Derry Signature Jean in 2001 wash and our Montecito Classic Pullover Sweater in Marine.
Madison is photographed wearing our Eileen Relaxed Button-Up in White Casual Cotton with the Derry Signature Jean in 2001 wash..
MADISON: Fashion has always been a significant part of who I am. It’s how I express myself and adds a little joy to my day!. As I’ve become more aware of the environmental impact of the industry (fashion is the #2 polluter after oil!), I’ve felt a responsibility to align my love of fashion with my values. Sustainable fashion merges my passion with a pressing global challenge. It offers a way to enjoy and celebrate clothing while making kinder choices for our planet. Brands like Frank & Eileen prove that it is possible to create beautiful, high-quality clothing while also caring for the environment.
MADISON: Fashion has always been a significant part of who I am. It’s how I express myself and adds a little joy to my day!. As I’ve become more aware of the environmental impact of the industry (fashion is the #2 polluter after oil!), I’ve felt a responsibility to align my love of fashion with my values. Sustainable fashion merges my passion with a pressing global challenge. It offers a way to enjoy and celebrate clothing while making kinder choices for our planet. Brands like Frank & Eileen prove that it is possible to create beautiful, high-quality clothing while also caring for the environment.
F&E: How do you approach dressing and allow your personal style to shine through while balancing the demands of your MBA classes, professional commitments, and everyday life? What are some of your go-to pieces?
MADISON: Good basics and transitional pieces are a must! On any given day, I might go from class to lunch with friends, then head to a job interview or date night with my fiancé, so I need outfits that can flex across settings. With Bay Area weather (50s in the morning, 70s in the afternoon), layers are essential. My go-to uniform includes jeans or a silk skirt, a neutral tee or tank, and a cardigan or crew neck sweater. My navy Montecito sweater from Frank & Eileen is one of the most worn pieces in my closet! I love draping it over my shoulders with a button-up or lightweight dress, then pulling it on when I get chilly. It’s the perfect blend of polished and practical.
F&E: What has been the most formative part, or a standout experience, while pursuing your MBA at Stanford?
MADISON: The most formative part of my MBA experience has been the hands-on, real-world work I’ve had the opportunity to do through Stanford. In one class, I partnered with a luxury lifestyle brand based in Turkey. The engagement went so well that the client invited me to continue consulting with them after the course ended. Similarly, my summer internship at a film studio, originally planned for eight weeks, evolved into an eight-month project I completed alongside my coursework. These opportunities have allowed me to deepen my skill set, build meaningful relationships across industries, and gain confidence. It’s been so rewarding to apply what I’ve learned in the classroom directly to companies I care about!
Madison is photographed wearing our Mary Classic Shirtdress in Vintage Stonewashed Indigo Famous Denim.
MADISON: Serving as Vice President of the Arts, Media, and Entertainment Club has been one of the highlights of my time at Stanford. The most meaningful part has been connecting with like-minded peers who share the same deep passion for storytelling. In such a competitive industry, it’s incredibly special to be part of a community that lifts one another up and looks out for each other.
MADISON: Serving as Vice President of the Arts, Media, and Entertainment Club has been one of the highlights of my time at Stanford. The most meaningful part has been connecting with like-minded peers who share the same deep passion for storytelling. In such a competitive industry, it’s incredibly special to be part of a community that lifts one another up and looks out for each other.
F&E: As a woman pursuing business, have there been any moments where you felt that being a woman shaped your approach to building or leading something?
MADISON: As a woman in business, I’ve found that leading with empathy is one of my greatest strengths. I believe people do their best work when they feel understood, supported, and seen, and I strive to create that environment wherever I go. One moment that stands out was during a team project at Stanford. My team was working on a high-pressure client engagement, and tensions were rising around scope and workload. Rather than pushing ahead, I paused the conversation to check in with how each individual was feeling, not just about the work, but about the dynamic within the team. That decision opened the door for an honest discussion about bandwidth and expectations, ultimately helping us reset and move forward in a more collaborative way.
F&E: Do you have any plans for the future or industries you’re hoping to pursue after completing your MBA?
MADISON: After completing my MBA, I’ll be moving to Nashville, Tennessee, to join a direct-to-consumer lifestyle startup! I’m excited to dive into a new industry and apply my strategic skill set to fresh challenges in a space I’m passionate about. It’s the perfect next step to blend creativity, consumer insight, and business impact.
Thanks for cozying up for 'a cuppa with' Madison!
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