About

Established in 1997, Hoopla is a woman-owned business that provides event expertise and project management skills to nonprofits. We pride ourselves in our go-getter attitude, flexibility, and spunkiness.

Hoopla Team in the middle and our friends Wendell Robinson, Executive Director of Restore Justice & Gabrielle Lyon, Executive Director of Illinois Humanities

Meet the Hooplettes!

Chris Kowalke

Chris is the Chief Alchemist at Hoopla. She believes that creating memorable, magical, and moving experiences for eventgoers requires authentic conversations between Hoopla and its clients. She’s committed to growth and supporting the Hoopla team and our clients in as many ways as possible, including yummy food, crying sessions as needed, and coffee.

Julie Burleigh

Working in development for more than 20 years makes Julie crafty, clever, and most importantly, fun.  She always has a fresh take on standby methods and is up for anything. Julie’s dogs, Zoe (pictured) and Baxter, often partake in official office business such as depawsits and branch managing.

Kate Stewart

Kate’s specialty – if you have to pick just one – is visual impact. She operates in the realm of aesthetic and brings beautiful mood boards, polished presentations, and clear production vision to the Hoopla menu. In her free time Kate loves to hike and collect skull décor.

Nina Wheeler

Nina is passionate about giving back to the community, and…spreadsheets. Numbers and data make her heart sing, although talking with people is rewarding too. When not at Hoopla, Nina can be found sailing on the lake or at home crocheting and cooking all things vegan.

Eva Manzulli

Eva believes event success can be measured in smiles. Things that bring a smile to her face are missions that uplift the community and, of course, floral arrangements. After hours, Eva is probably hanging with her family and refining her lei-making skills.

what we listen to while we work