Spotlight on Success: Madiken Security

Throughout the project to rebuild Ryan Field, the Central Street Consortium (CSC) has prioritized partnerships with local minority- and women-owned businesses. One of those businesses is Madiken Security, which provides comprehensive security for the job site and exemplifies CSC’s mission to advance economic opportunity for Evanston.

Madiken Security owner Michele Millison, a Northwestern University alum and former Chicago police officer, demonstrates her commitment to community starting with company hiring practices: 80% of Madiken Security employees are Evanston residents. Millison actively recruits employees through the City of Evanston's local employment program and other community-based organizations, ensuring Madiken Security uplifts the community it serves.

“My goal has always been to provide meaningful opportunities for people right here in Evanston,” Millison shared. “Working on the Ryan Field project has allowed me to not only grow my business but also make a direct impact in the lives of local residents.”

Millison says a highlight of her journey on the Ryan Field project came during a November job fair CSC sponsored to connect Evanston residents with project-related opportunities. Millison hired a standout candidate she met through the event — a graduate of Rebuilding Exchange’s workforce program, which is supported through Northwestern’s Community Benefits Agreement with the City of Evanston.

Rebuilding Exchange focuses on creating economic pathways for underserved populations in Evanston. The employee Millison hired through the job fair quickly became an integral part of the Madiken Security team, demonstrating the powerful impact of combining business growth with community development.

“Working this job has helped me provide for my kids,” one employee said. “I am happy to work in the community where I reside. My kids hope to attend Northwestern University in the future.”

Millison’s dedication to meeting and exceeding expectations has fostered a strong professional partnership throughout the Ryan Field project. CSC recently extended Madiken Security’s contract to include additional services, a testament to their exceptional work.

CSC celebrates Millison and Madiken Security as a model for how local businesses can thrive while driving economic empowerment in Evanston. Their story is a testament to the Ryan Field project’s commitment to fostering meaningful change, one hire, one partnership and one success story at a time.