Leading By Example: Nystrom receives MACCI Award

ODC’s Project Search Supervisor, Danielle Nystrom, was recently named the MACCI 2021 Leadership Marshfield Alumnus of the Year.

A lifelong Marshfield resident, Danielle is well known for her countless hours of community involvement. In 2020, Danielle chaired the Marshfield Rotary Winter Wonderland (RWW) event. The community needed this event more than ever this past year, and with guidance from the Marshfield Clinic Health Systems, Danielle developed unique ways to ensure volunteers and the public were safe.  Under Nystrom’s leadership, 2020 was the best year ever for RWW.  Food donations increased by 34% and cash contributions were up 60%, raising over $100,000 in cash donations for families in need.

Sara Schueller, ODC’s Transition Services Developer and nominator of Danielle for the award states, “I have had the honor of working with this young woman for the last three years. I can honestly say in this timeframe, I cannot think of a time she has ever said “no” when asked to help develop a fundraiser, coordinate an event or work for a cause that benefits our community. On several occasions, I have even tried to slow her down; reminding her, she needs to take care of herself too, but this quickly goes in one ear and out the other.” 

Danielle works full-time in a job that includes travel, but she still finds time to get home and help her community. In addition to her commitment to RWW, Danielle is an active member of Marshfield’s Young Professionals.  She plays an active role in coordinating their “adopt-a-family” gift giving, resulting in the special delivery of more than 50 presents to the Personal Development Center, which serves families in North Wood and Clark Counties.

Another cause close to Danielle’s heart is Mike’s Run, an event that raises money to support mental health awareness and initiatives at Marshfield Clinic Health System. Since its inception, Danielle has helped to coordinate, promote and work this event, while using her job and social media to increase awareness and remove the stigma of mental illness.

“Danielle is truly amazing. She has a unique ability to inspire and empower those around her”, says Julie Strenn, CEO/President of ODC.  “At work, and in the community, she leads with courage, passion and humility. I cannot think of a person more deserving of this award.  ODC and the Marshfield community are very lucky to have her.”

Congratulations Danielle!