Kristen Schrader
Director
Chicago
Kristen Schrader graduated from Loyola University Chicago with an unlikely double major in theatre and sociology. She began her career in theatre management first at the Goodman Theater as the Box Office Manager, and then at the Apollo as the Assistant General Manager.
When Kristen joined Prosperity Partners in 2019, the idea of working with an office of accountants scared her more than any amount of stage fright ever has – and her last office had a dragon in it. While her prior employment at the Apollo may have given her a more direct way to use her skills of theater trivia, set painting, costume design and theater history, at Prosperity Partners she has the power to confound and confuse her colleagues by launching into an extemporaneous TED Talk on the unique structure of the musical Cats or breaking into song at the mere mention of the name “Seymour”.
As our Human Resources Director, she strives to support our team and nurture a healthy and happy workplace and culture. Kristen helps our team grow by searching far and wide for talented professionals and interns. She also serves as our Chief Entertainment Officer, helping to plan our monthly parties and treats for the firm.
In her spare time, Kristen is an actress and producer for the multi-media production company she runs with her husband – 27th Letter Productions. So far together they’ve made one web-comic, three podcasts, four films, and a partridge in a pear tree.
EXPERTISE: Human Resources, Recruiting, Event Management, Administration
- Favorite thing about Prosperity Partners: How supported I feel by everyone on the team. Everyone at Prosperity Partners has your back – whether you need advice, additional resources, time, encouragement, a sympathetic ear, or just another pair of hands. Your teammates will be there for you.
- Desert island book: I love reading too much and would paste the following books together to create one giant mega book: “The Once and Future Witches” by Alix E. Harrow, “The Ten Thousand Doors of January” by Alix E Harrow, “Beneath a Scarlet Sky” by Mark Sullivan, “The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue” by VE Schwab, “The Power” by Naomi Alderman, “Code Name Verity” by Elizabeth Wein, and “Carrie” by Stephen King. Possibly enough books to make a raft and sail away, but I’d never hurt my precious books!
- Favorite vacation you’ve taken: My brother was married in Germany. I spent three days in Amsterdam, three days in Paris, and three days in Frankfurt. It was amazing! One of the countless highlights of the trip was hiking up the Black Forest with my new sister-in-law a to a castle-turned-winery where we shared a glass of Neuer Wein (new wine).
- What is your side gig/passion project/hobby? In addition to being an actress, I’m a painter! My medium of choice is acrylic and my subjects are primarily animals or fantasy landscapes. I’m always on the lookout for cafes or small galleries to showcase them in. I’m also a full-time Cat Mommy. If you’ve been on a Zoom call with me, you’ve met Lieutenant Ellen Ripley and Commander William Riker.
- Favorite way to celebrate your birthday: I’d want to go out for margaritas and guac with friends, and then go to Musical Theatre Night at Sidetracks until I lose my voice!
- What would your last meal be? I could pretend to be fancy but instead I’ll be honest and say a Kaijo burger and fries from Kuma’s Corner. But I’d pair it with a really nice Malbec.