We’re thrilled to introduce Maya Schaeffer, one of the newest members elected to the Drupal Association Board, with her term beginning 1 November 2025.
Maya is the lead organizer of EvolveDigital & EvolveDrupal, where she has been instrumental in rebuilding the in-person side of the community post-pandemic, connecting over 1,000 attendees (40% from outside the traditional Drupal space) across summits in Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, Atlanta, NYC, and Boston (upcoming June 2025). These events highlight the demand for cross-functional community spaces that showcase Drupal’s relevance across industries.
Beyond events, Maya is passionate about contributing to Promote Drupal and helping shape an Association that champions clear storytelling, accessible entry points, and a strong pipeline for the next generation of users and contributors.
We’re excited to have Maya on the Board. Here are her thoughts as she begins this new chapter:
What are you most excited about when it comes to joining the Drupal Association Board?
I'm excited to bring a fresh perspective that bridges the gap between technical and non-technical communities. I want to help Drupal grow by expanding its reach, telling a more inclusive story, and making it easier for new voices to get involved, especially beyond code.
What do you hope to accomplish during your time on the board?
I want to help Drupal reach new audiences, support more inclusive contribution pathways, and strengthen community engagement beyond the developer space. That includes amplifying Promote Drupal, making it easier for newcomers to get involved, and championing voices from underrepresented regions and roles. I also hope to bring a marketing and events lens to our strategy, helping the project tell a clearer, more compelling story to the world.
What specific skill or perspective do you contribute to the board?
I bring a marketing and community-building lens, shaped by leading EvolveDrupal (and EvolveDigital) and engaging non-technical audiences. My background in event management and my administrative experience as an executive assistant in Germany give me the tools to align stakeholders and turn ideas into action, something I’m especially excited to bring to the Board’s work. I thrive at making vision tangible and creating inclusive spaces where more people can see themselves in Drupal.
How has Drupal impacted your life or career?
When I started at Evolving Web, I didn’t even know what Drupal was. But from my very first event, the community welcomed me in. That sense of openness gave me room to grow, build confidence, and discover a whole new path in tech. I’ve found a place where I can connect with people, contribute in meaningful ways, and keep learning every step of the way.
Tell us something that the Drupal community might not know about you.
I started playing ball hockey after moving to Canada, and just 3.5 years later, I made it onto the United Nations team for the 2024 Ball Hockey World Championship in Switzerland. It was an unforgettable experience and a reminder that it’s never too late to try something new and go all in.
Share a favorite quote or piece of advice that has inspired you.
"You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take." — Wayne Gretzky
This quote has guided so many of my big life decisions. I moved to a new country, stepped into a completely new industry, and said yes to opportunities I didn’t feel fully “ready” for, from organizing summits to playing in a world championship. None of it would’ve happened if I hadn’t taken the shot.
We look forward to the contributions Maya will make during her time on the Drupal Association Board. Thank you, Maya, for sharing your time and expertise with the Drupal community. You can connect with Maya on LinkedIn.
About the Drupal Association Board of Directors
The Drupal Association Board of Directors comprises 13 members with nine nominated for staggered three-year terms, two elected by Drupal Association members, and one seat is reserved for the Drupal Project Founder, Dries Buytaert, while another is reserved for the immediate past chair (non-voting). Terms start on 1 November of each year.
The Board meets twice in person for weekend retreat and about 5 times virtually each year. The Board provides strategic guidance to the Drupal Association and oversight of the Association’s management, policy development, management, budget, and fundraising efforts.