Elaine Vorberg: Leading with Heart and Clarity

Elaine Vorberg has been part of PDA since 2020, but her connection to board governance runs much deeper. A practicing attorney and head of a practice group, she has spent years advising boards and helping them operate more effectively. Today, she brings that same perspective to her role as National Board Secretary. Elaine also serves as PDA's Legal Counsel.

Her journey with PDA began—like it does for many members—through a virtual event. “I was exploring board service more seriously and came across PDA through word of mouth or LinkedIn,” she recalls. “Once I got involved, it was really the people that kept me engaged.”

Elaine’s volunteer service started with a short-term legal advisory role and evolved into an appointed leadership position as PDA’s board grew beyond its Chicago roots. “It’s been rewarding to work alongside high-level contributors who care deeply about PDA’s mission and momentum,” she says.

She believes board governance can—and should—serve as a stabilizing force in a rapidly evolving business landscape. From AI acceleration to generational shifts in leadership, Elaine sees an opportunity for board members to stay grounded while helping companies adapt with integrity and vision. “Good governance isn’t about resisting change,” she says. “It’s about making thoughtful, strategic decisions when everything around you is moving fast.”

Volunteering, for Elaine, is much more than a means to an end, it’s an impactful way to build connection and community. “Rolling up my sleeves and working alongside others is how I get to know people. It’s not just about networking—it’s about showing up for what needs showing up for.”

As a leader, she’s guided by core values like freedom, integrity, and joy—but also by a simple mantra: “Take the work seriously, but don’t take yourself seriously.”

When she’s not serving on the PDA board or advising clients, Elaine enjoys knitting, attending live music events, and traveling with her husband and son. “I’ve been working on the same pair of leg warmers for years,” she laughs. “It’s my perfectly imperfect project.”

Asked what advice she’d give to members looking to get more involved, she’s quick to respond: “Don’t just look for what’s in it for you. Show up, contribute, and trust that something meaningful will come from it.”

“It’s not just the seat, it’s the service.”