Laura’s Chick-fil-A journey began at age 17 as a Front of House Team Member at the Waukegan restaurant where she would eventually become the Owner-Operator. She quickly developed a passion for the brand and the people behind it.
Over eight years at the restaurant, Laura learned from leaders who helped her see that Chick-fil-A offered opportunities far beyond an entry-level position. By age 18, she had set her sights on becoming an Owner-Operator.
She went on to participate in 17 restaurant openings as a trainer before completing four years in Chick-fil-A’s Leadership Development Program. Her rotations included roles in Interim Management, Grand Opening Support, and a staff assignment, giving her experience across different parts of the business.
On February 12, 2026, Laura opened Chick-fil-A Waukegan as its local Owner-Operator. Her journey from Team Member to business owner reflects years of learning, leadership development, and a determination to create opportunities for others.
Laura’s vision is aligned with Chick-fil-A’s purpose of “being the world’s most caring company and winning hearts every day.” She wants every Guest to leave in a better place and hopes that small moments of genuine hospitality will create a lasting, positive ripple effect throughout Waukegan.
Her approach to leadership centers on building a team that practices teamwork, a servant’s heart, excellence, ownership, and a winning attitude. She wants Team Members to grow professionally while contributing to a workplace where people serve and support one another.
Community impact is especially personal for Laura. Because her family relied on food banks during periods of financial hardship, hunger relief is a priority. To celebrate the restaurant’s opening, Chick-fil-A announced a $25,000 donation to Feeding America benefiting Northern Illinois Food Bank.
The restaurant also participates in Chick-fil-A’s Shared Table program, which redirects surplus food to local nonprofits. In addition, Laura’s restaurant is creating approximately 110 jobs, providing local residents with employment and opportunities to develop new skills.
For Laura, success means more than operating a restaurant: it means helping people, strengthening the community, and creating opportunities that can change lives.
