Age: 35
Occupation: Civil engineer, Lake County Stormwater Management Commission
Residence: Fox River Grove
Hometown: Kalamazoo, Mich.
Family: Husband, Anthony Colletti; son Carl, 8 months
Education: Bachelor of science in civil engineering, environmental emphasis, Bradley University
Favorite McHenry County restaurant? Brunch Café in Fox River Grove
Favorite movie? "Pretty Woman"
One word that describes you? Determined
What is your job and what makes you so good at it?
I am a professional engineer. What makes me good at my job is the fact that I have an attention for detail. Being an engineer, I am constantly reviewing documents that have to meet certain specifications or requirements. Overlooking small aspects of a job or a document could be detrimental to the positive outcome of the project. I am also very organized and technical, which also make my job easier when it comes to multitasking.
What accomplishments and innovations are you most proud of this year?
I have numerous accomplishments in my life that I am proud of in 2012 from a personal, professional and extra-curricular standpoint. First of all, my husband and I welcomed our first child, Carl Vincent, in January after years of waiting and hoping for God to bless us with a family. He is the light of our lives, makes us smile on a daily basis, and helps us reflect on all the good things in our lives.
On a professional level, Lake County recently passed a new Watershed Development Ordinance. This process took numerous years and hundreds of hours of technical deliberations, research and oversight. I am pleased that the amendment process is finally complete.
On an extra-curricular level, I am thrilled that while I was state president of the Illinois Jaycees in 2011, through the hard work of our members and chapters, we were honored with the U.S. Jaycees’ James McKeithan Memorial Award, which is presented annually to the state organization conducting the best and most comprehensive activities in the area of international involvement. This was a truly humbling award that should be shared by all Illinois Jaycees through their dedication to making an impact in the lives of others throughout the state, the nation and internationally.
How do you give back to the community and what drives your service?
I have given back to the community in so many ways throughout the years. I’ve volunteered from grade school through college. I think those experiences have molded me into the person I am today. Years ago I joined the Cary-Grove Jaycees, initially wanting to meet new people in the community. Over the years this has been a huge outlet for me for community service and giving back. It gives me the motivation to continue when I see people who are so grateful for the wonderful activities and projects we run as Jaycees for and with the community. As a trustee for the village of Fox River Grove, my time and efforts are again focused on giving back to my community. I want to make sure our village is a better place through the decisions we make as a board.
What is something you have never done but want to do some day?
Travel to the Galapagos Islands.
What is the best career advice you have received?
“Just do the right thing.”
Nominator’s comment:
“Her passion for improving the world around her is evident through the time and effort she dedicates to her community,” said Anthony Colletti, her husband and a former Best Under 40 winner in 2009.
