Susan Crane
Historic Properties & Special Events Manager
Susan brings a long history of planning and organizing a variety of events to Cheney Mansion. No matter the occasion, Susan’s attention to details is unparalleled and provides peace of mind to each client so they can enjoy their event, the house and be hosts to their guests. Prior to each event, Susan and her team work closely with caterers, musicians, photographers, florists and entertainers creating the best possible environment to fit your expectations.
Noelle Combs
Historic Properties & Special Events Coordinator
Noelle is a classically trained musician who has enjoyed a career as a music educator, conductor, and event producer in educational, community, and church environments. She has assembled and led large choral and orchestral ensembles in massive concerts and outreach events, including the production of nationally-televised broadcasts. With the ultimate goal of creating a seamless and special experience, Noelle has worked alongside numerous families to plan weddings, memorials, and celebrations of all sizes and scopes. She is excited to offer her experience and expertise to all who bring their events to Cheney Mansion!
Santa Chiapetta
Event Supervisor
Santa’s calm and personable demeanor brings ease and organization to planning your event. Santa has been with Cheney Mansion since 2016 and has supervised events since 2017. With a deep understanding of Cheney Mansion and history of working with catering partners and other vendors, Santa will ensure your event flows easily. She has a passion for making your event at our historic home one that you will cherish.
Hilda Ettedgui
Event Supervisor
A professional architect for over 30 years with experience in art education programming and implementation at elementary and middle schools, Hilda comes to Oak Park to be near family. As luck would have it, she was able to join the team at Cheney Mansion and share her experience in event coordinating, program development, project management, and love of architecture. As every member of this team, Hilda works in collaboration with our partners to make sure each event runs smoothly and successfully.
Essence Harris
Event Supervisor
Essence recognizes that every special event at Cheney Mansion is unique and treats it as such. Her number one goal is to leave each guest happy and to maintain the integrity of our historic mansion. Essence has a passion for special events, with a history of working events with guest counts ranging from intimate get-togethers to major gatherings. She holds her Bachelor’s of Arts from Coastal Carolina University.
Andrew Hilliker
Event Supervisor
Andrew Hilliker is a versatile hospitality professional with over 17 years of experience in hotel management, food and beverage, sales, and hospitality leadership. He has a passion for hospitality and commitment to excellence, and strives to foster a culture of trust, creativity, and leadership. Throughout his career, Andrew has help leadership roles at esteemed hostels, including Marriott International’s Westin Chicago River North and Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park. His expertise includes improving operational efficiency and boosting guest satisfaction. Andrew holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music Performance with a minor in Hospitality Leadership from North Central College.
Sophia Mendoza
Event Supervisor
Sophia is a member of the Special Events and Historical Properties team at Cheney Mansion and assists with private events. She has been with Cheney Mansion since 2023, and since then has had many opportunities to make events spectacular! Coming from an extensive background in customer service and education, she understands the need for attention to detail and communication. With her calm disposition, she aids in maintaining a relaxing environment in which guests can focus on their special day. Sophia looks forward to being a part of your event!