Maggie Dunlop

That’s not an easy question to answer, but if I had to name one thing, it would be staying true to my principles. My mom once told me that Ceruttis are known for following and trusting their values, even when it comes at a cost. She saw that in my dad, and now she sees it in me—and that means everything to me. I’ve made decisions based on alignment rather than comfort, including walking away from a well-established role when my personal values no longer matched the direction of leadership. I didn’t have another job lined up at the time, but I trusted that the same values that had carried me that far wouldn’t fail me then.

I believe deeply in myself and in the humanity of people, even when that belief feels risky in today’s world. I also believe in starting—taking the leap before everything feels perfect. Some of the best advice I’ve received is simply to begin. Have the confidence to try, to learn as you go, to live in the process, and if something doesn’t work, to start again.

Equally important has been knowing who to lean on. Not everyone is meant to be your person in every season or situation, and that’s okay. Surrounding myself with the right people—those who bring different perspectives, challenge my thinking, and support growth—has been essential. I know there are things that are best done the “Maggie way,” but I also recognize that my way isn’t the only right way. Being open to that has allowed me to grow, lead better, and build something stronger than I ever could alone.

The best career advice I have ever received is simple: just start. You don’t need to be 100% ready to begin. When your idea, plan, or preparation is about 70% there, that’s enough to take the first step. You can always refine it, add to it, update it, or even start over entirely—but if you never begin, there’s nothing for the world to respond to.

Let your work be seen. Pay attention to what resonates, adjust where needed, and keep moving forward. Failure isn’t something to fear; it’s part of the process. Growth doesn’t happen without action. You can’t grow anything if you never plant the seed.

My advice to young women entering any industry is to trust your gut, be confident, and be loud—loud not in volume, but in presence. Don’t let anyone dim your voice or hold you back. Know what you want, be clear about the path you’re working toward, and allow yourself the space to learn, ask questions, and grow along the way.

It’s okay to adjust your direction if it feels right to you, but don’t second-guess your value. Know your worth and stand firmly in it. Confidence isn’t about having every answer—it’s about believing in yourself enough to keep moving forward, even as you learn.

In photography, one of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—is standing out in a crowded space and building meaningful client connections. After stepping away from my Director of Operations role last year, I made the decision to pursue photography full time. That shift has allowed me to intentionally grow my business and expand beyond family and senior photography into the business and branding space. Right now, a key focus is building a strong portfolio that reflects this evolution while continuing to attract the right clients.

My goal is to fill my calendar with families who want to cherish their memories and remember their kids exactly as they are in this moment, as well as seniors preparing to step into the world with confidence and excitement for what’s ahead. Photography allows me to freeze time, tell honest stories, and remind people that each new chapter—whether personal or professional—is worth documenting.

With the Cerutti Family Foundation, we’re entering our fourth year, and our biggest opportunity lies in growth. As the foundation expands, so does our ability to serve more teachers and students. This year, we’re hosting more events and deepening our understanding of fundraising—learning how to confidently ask for support in a way that aligns with our values. Growing our donor base means expanding our impact, and that’s an exciting place to be as we continue building something rooted in care, education, and empowerment.

Humility and humanity are at the core of how I move through both my work and my personal life. I believe it’s important to remember that everyone is navigating their own experiences, just as deeply and personally as you are. Treating people with the same respect and kindness you hope to receive—the simple “golden rule” we learn early on—goes a long way, and I truly believe that energy finds its way back to you.

I was raised by my dad to have confidence in myself while staying grounded in who I am. That balance has shaped how I show up: trusting my instincts, standing by my values, and listening to that inner voice when something feels right—or when it doesn’t. I see that as your gut speaking, and it’s worth paying attention to.

I also believe we’re never meant to have all the answers. We aren’t born knowing the world, and there’s strength in being a learner—asking questions, staying curious, and allowing yourself to grow. Confidence doesn’t mean knowing everything; it means being secure enough to keep learning while staying true to who you are.