Rising each morning at 4:30 a.m. to hike not only grounds Maxwell, it also helps fuel her creative flow for finding interesting and unique programs that engage residents. As Director of Life Enrichment, she considers herself a connector, working with her team to bring together entertainers, lecturers, and other resources to enrich lives.

“I spent a lot of time with my grandparents in the summers growing up, and I learned a lot from them,” she says. “Now with my extensive local resources, I have the opportunity to give back and engage our residents with interesting and unique programs.”

Maxwell’s creative flow is reinforced by her background in the book world. “I receive early editions of books to blurb for publishers,” she says. Reading and attending author events are two of her favorite pastimes. She also has a huge collection of cookbooks, and has shared her culinary talents by teaching cooking classes.

Trying new restaurants is another passion, and of course, hiking is high on Maxwell’s list. She also enjoys watching her daughter’s three-pound tea cup Yorkie, Koda, when she travels. (Koda is a big hit with residents of Modena Green Oaks.)

Maxwell received her Bachelor of Arts from Hollins College. She also lived in France for a year.

Dream vacation? Going to Italy and taking cooking classes.