Who’s Who at GiGi’s Playhouse Deerfield: Meet Our Amazing Team

Maddie is thrilled to be joining GiGi’s Playhouse – Deerfield as a Program and Volunteer Coordinator! Maddie recently graduated with her Master of Arts in Psychology from The University of Vermont, where she piloted a new study focused on the effects of dating apps in emerging adulthood. Maddie also received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from The University of Vermont, including a double minor in Musical Theatre and Behavioral Health. In her free time, Maddie loves swimming, singing, acting, and spending time with her family. Combining her passion for serving the community with her love for working with others, Maddie cannot wait to get to know all of the amazing families at GiGi’s. Come by and say hi – her office door is always open! 

Joshua Radis joined the team as our Database Intern. Joshua is from Deerfield, Illinois, and currently attends the Elmhurst Learning and Success Academy at Elmhurst University. Since 2022, he has volunteered at GiGi’s Playhouse Deerfield, assisting with the maintenance of the Playhouse’s databases. Joshua values the Playhouse’s commitment to recognizing the potential in all participants and staff, and he is passionate about contributing to its friendly and inclusive environment. In his free time, Joshua enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing on his computer, and playing pickleball.

Shannon joined the GiGi’s Playhouse National Office in 2015, initially viewing it as a positive place to grow while exploring her long-term career goals. But within just a few months, she “drank the Kool-Aid” and realized this was more than a stepping stone—it was a calling. What began as a short-term opportunity quickly became a lifelong mission. Her passion and talents eventually led her to specialize in marketing and supporting new Playhouse start-up teams—work that deeply inspired her. One team in particular, the Deerfield start-up group, reignited her commitment, and when the opportunity arose to lead the new location, she jumped in with both feet.

Growing the Deerfield Playhouse and its surrounding community is more than just opening doors—it’s about creating a lasting, inclusive impact. For Shannon, building this Playhouse means fostering a space where individuals with Down syndrome and their families feel seen, supported, and celebrated every single day. It’s about forming meaningful relationships, empowering local volunteers, and creating a ripple effect of acceptance that reaches far beyond the walls of the Playhouse. She is proud to lead the GiGi’s Playhouse Deerfield Team.