Meet Magdalaine
Most people call me Maggie. I’m a student, researcher, and proud member of the West Lafayette community. I’m naturally curious and probably ask more questions than most people. I love learning about history and politics, meeting people with different experiences, and understanding why our communities and institutions work the way they do. That curiosity is a big part of how I approach public service. Listen first, learn, and then get to work.
Magdalaine’s Why
My decision to run for office came from seeing firsthand how much our systems and policies matter to the people who rely on them. After experiencing sexual assault and navigating the process that followed, I became frustrated with parts of a system that I believed could work better for survivors.
Rather than letting that frustration end there, I began learning more about sexual violence prevention, institutional responses, and the policies that shape these systems. That work showed me that meaningful change requires people who are willing to question what isn't working and do the work to improve it.
Running for office became a way for me to turn that experience into public service. I want to bring the same determination to the Statehouse, listening to people, taking their concerns seriously, and working to make government more responsive to the people it serves.
Growing Up Military
Growing up as a military kid gave me an early understanding of service, responsibility, and adapting to change. My dad served in the U.S. Navy for 28 years, so service was simply part of everyday life in our family.
I learned that serving others isn’t about recognition or a title. It’s about showing up, doing your part, and leaving things better than you found them. Those are values I hope to carry with me into the Statehouse.
Outside of Politics
There’s a lot more to my life than politics. When I have some free time, you can usually find me reading, gardening, crocheting with a history video playing in the background, getting outside for a hike, or spending time with my boyfriend, Avery Willson.
I’m also a very proud cat mom to two rescues, Fitzgerald and Hemingway. Spending time with the people and pets I love keeps me grounded and reminds me that there’s always more to life than politics.
Education & Research
Education has always been an important part of my life. I studied political science with a focus on human rights and international relations and have continued studying sociology at Purdue.
My research interests, particularly around sexual violence and human rights, have taught me to look beyond talking points and ask what the evidence actually tells us. I believe good policy starts with asking good questions, listening to the people affected, and being willing to learn.
The Leader I Hope to Be
I’m running because I believe people deserve a government that listens, responds, and takes their concerns seriously. My experiences have taught me the importance of asking questions, understanding different perspectives, and speaking up when something isn’t working.
As a representative, I want to be accessible to the people I serve and thoughtful about the decisions I make. I want to bring a willingness to listen, the courage to ask difficult questions, and a commitment to getting things done for District 26.