Ms. Madison Crook has been named one of Columbia Business Monthly’s Best and Brightest Under 35, recognizing her extraordinary leadership and impact at the Charter Institute at Erskine.
As the Director of Operations and Human Resources, she has become the driving force behind the Institute’s daily operations. From managing staff to planning statewide events, Ms. Crook’s work supports staff, schools, and almost 30,000 students across South Carolina.
Resilience, Leadership, and Purpose
Three years ago, Ms. Crook took on her first job after college at the front desk of the Institute. Three months after starting, she was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer.
Rather than stepping away from her new role, Ms. Crook chose to continue to work, balancing her treatment with the demands of a fast-paced organization. Her perseverance and resilience allowed her to not only continue to excel at her job but grow over time into a leadership role. Today, she is cancer-free and the Director of Operations and Human Resources for an organization that has managed over $1 billion in operations since she joined.
Ms. Crook’s role requires a combination of focus, flexibility, and patience. Her ability to combine operational expertise with genuine care for people has been instrumental in the Institute’s growth and culture, especially as the staff has more than doubled during her time with the Institute.
Her leadership style is both direct and compassionate.She tackles challenges at their source while always considering the impact on the organization and its people. In the office, she is known as a steady, motivating presence who works alongside the team to find solutions, not just give directions.
Expanding Opportunities and Inspiring Others
Ms. Crook grew up in a small rural town where educational options were limited to either traditional public schools with poor academics or expensive private schools. She was fortunate to attend a private school, an experience that shaped her commitment to expanding access to quality education for children in underserved communities.
She approaches her work through what she calls a “Network of Strength.” At the Institute, this means supporting staff so they can better support schools, who in turn can support teachers, who can then support children. Through this ripple effect, her efforts reach far beyond the office, helping Institute schools succeed and improving educational opportunities across South Carolina.
Ms. Crook’s dedication, empathy, and selflessness set her apart as a leader. She faces challenges with honesty, collaboration, and a genuine commitment to helping others succeed. Her focus on excellence and her talent for building a supportive network across the organization make her a key driver of the Institute’s mission.
Ms. Crook exemplifies the qualities recognized by Columbia Business Monthly’s Best and Brightest Under 35. She leads with strength, inspires those around her, and creates meaningful, lasting impact on her community.
