1. Why did you decide to run for trustee?
Running for trustee felt like a natural next step for me. Over the years, I’ve been deeply involved in various organizations throughout Crete, forming strong connections with businesses, village employees, local taxing bodies, and even officials in surrounding towns and at the state level. In 2023, I began working at the Crete Park District, where one of my responsibilities is
collaborating with local legislators. I discovered I truly enjoy working on community initiatives at this level. Combining my experience, relationships, and passion for serving our community, running for trustee feels like the right way to continue making a meaningful impact.
2. Have you held public office before?
I have not previously held public office, but I do have board experience. My involvement with various organizations has given me firsthand experience in leadership, decision-making, and working collaboratively to serve the community.
3. What is your background (length of time lived in Crete, education, career)?
My husband and I purchased our first home in Crete in 2007. While I grew up in Steger, Crete always felt like home. My grandparents lived here, I attended preschool at Crete United Methodist Church, and I participated in many Park District programs and events throughout my childhood.
I have a background in Special Education, earning a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education and special education from Illinois State University in 2005 and a master’s degree in educational leadership from St. Xavier University in 2009. I spent 15 years in education, starting as a K-3 Special Education teacher in Steger before transitioning to higher education, where I taught in the Undergraduate Dual-Certification Program at Trinity Christian College, focusing on special education law and the IEP process, while also supervising student teachers.
In 2019, I opened Yarn Hollow Crete, a small brick-and-mortar yarn shop in downtown Crete. While I ultimately found being a sole business owner wasn’t my passion, the experience taught me invaluable lessons about business and community engagement. In 2023, I joined the Crete Park District, where I’ve truly enjoyed contributing to our community in new ways.
4. What community involvement, organization, affiliations, or club memberships do you have?
I have been actively involved in various organizations and initiatives throughout Crete. In the past, I served on the board of the Crete Creative Art Gallery, where I helped manage the school portion. I also played a key role in restarting the 201-U Education Foundation, assisted with Juneteenth at the U, and participated in the 201-U Strategic Plan Committee.
Since 2019, I have served on the board of the Crete Area Chamber of Commerce, including as vice president from 2021 to 2024. I am also the Vice President of Crete Country Christmas, where one of my main roles is to oversee marketing for the event. Additionally, in 2020, I started the Crete Santa Sleigh Parade to bring Santa to neighborhoods and support the Crete Food Pantry during COVID. Additionally, I serve on the Village of Crete’s Memorial Day Parade Committee. Beyond these roles, I contribute to the “Crete Connections” publication by creating content for both the Chamber of Commerce and Crete Country Christmas pages, helping to keep the community informed and engaged.
5. What characteristics, qualifications, or experience do you feel you possess to be a trustee?
I am a hard worker and a strong listener. I believe in thoughtful decision-making and open communication, and I am not afraid to admit when I don’t have an immediate answer — but I will always do the work to find it.
Through my involvement in the community, I have built strong relationships with local business owners, village employees, and community organizations. I understand the challenges of running a business in Crete and the importance of fostering a strong local economy. My experience working with local legislators through the Crete Park District has given me valuable insight into policy-making and local governance.
I have served in leadership roles in multiple organizations, including the Crete Area Chamber of Commerce and Crete Country Christmas, where I have overseen large-scale events, managed marketing efforts, and collaborated with key stakeholders. I also have experience with fundraising, budgeting, and strategic planning, which are essential skills for serving as a trustee.
Most importantly, I am deeply invested in Crete’s future. I am committed to working collaboratively with residents, businesses, and local leaders to ensure our village continues to grow and thrive.
6. What do you think the village needs right now, and what would be the first thing you would do if you’re elected?
I believe I bring a different perspective to the board, having
served with so many different organizations. My experience in marketing, supporting small businesses, and raising a family in Crete gives me a well-rounded understanding of our community’s needs. I hope this perspective will be advantageous to the board as we work together to strengthen and grow Crete.
The first thing I will do if elected is learn. I want to listen — to my fellow trustees, to the employees, and to the residents, who are the backbone of Crete. By gaining knowledge and understanding the challenges and opportunities we face, I can be an effective and successful trustee, making informed decisions that benefit the entire community.
7. What are some long-term goals you would like to see the village complete?
I know the village has worked hard to kickstart the revitalization of the downtown area, and I truly appreciate the effort that has gone into this important initiative. I understand this is a work in progress, and I am eager to contribute to its success. As a former business owner, I recognize how critical location is for both small and large businesses alike. A thriving downtown not only strengthens our local economy but also enhances the sense of community. I look forward to supporting these efforts in any way I can to help ensure long-term success.
8. What do you feel the village needs to improve and why?
Effective marketing. I had the opportunity to collaborate with the Chamber and our taxing bodies on a village-initiated effort to promote our community. From this initiative, our community newsletter, “Crete Connections,” was created, providing a valuable tool to share important information and showcase all Crete has to offer. I know the village is continuing its efforts to market this amazing community, and I am dedicated to ensuring people outside of Crete recognize just how special this town truly is.
Effective marketing will not only attract new residents and businesses but also strengthen community pride and engagement. By highlighting Crete’s assets, events, and opportunities, we can build a stronger local economy and create a more connected, vibrant community.
9. What are important issues you’d like to address and how will you address them?
I would like to continue building upon the collaboration between the village, state and local legislators, and surrounding communities to secure funding opportunities, grants, and policy support that benefit Crete. Through my involvement in the community and my work at the Crete Park District, I have built strong relationships with legislators and continue to foster these connections. I plan to use these relationships and skills to advocate for infrastructure improvements, economic development initiatives, and community programs that align with Crete’s long-term goals.