Politics & Government

Election 2013: Kathleen Wilson

Kathleen Wilson is one of five candidates running unopposed for five open seats on the Hinsdale Library Board of Trustees.

Name: Kathleen Wilson

Position sought: Hinsdale Library Board of Trustees

Years in Hinsdale: 11+

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Family (name, relationship and age): Husband Steve; sons Connor, 14, and Gavin, 12.

Education (degree and school): Bachelor's degree from Saint Mary’s College, Notre Dame, summa cum laude; MBA from Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University.

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Occupation: Business owner, Clearpoint Exhibit Intelligence. [Solutions provider and marketing consulting practice focused on strategy and analytics for healthcare convention exhibitors.]

Previous elected offices: None

Applicable experience qualifying you for the position: I have been a marketing executive at major corporations including senior vice president of marketing for First USA/Bank One (now Chase) Card Services. I’ve been active in the community through many volunteer positions at St. Isaac Jogues School, including serving as president of its school board.  I have also served as a charity fundraiser and scout leader.

What is the primary reason you are running for this office?

I see the library as a central element to a strong community.  I have a life-long love of learning and strongly support the library’s role in fostering the enjoyment of reading, intellectual and cultural curiosity and exploration, academic support, and community service.  I also recognize the importance of the library in serving the total community and keeping current with their needs and with technological advancements.

What will be your single most important priority if you get elected?

If elected, my first priority will be to absorb as much I can in terms of the needs and challenges we are facing.  I will work cooperatively to address these issues as well as identify new opportunities for improvement.  I am eager to help foster communication between the library and our community and to be an ambassador for the library’s services and resources.

What sets you apart from the other candidates?

I am hopeful that my business experience, both corporate and entrepreneurial, will complement my passion for the library’s continued and always-improving service to the Hinsdale community.  I believe that solving problems and addressing needs both start with strong listening skills.

What do you believe is the Hinsdale library’s biggest strength?

The Hinsdale library benefits from a supportive community, a well-maintained facility, a talented executive director and staff, and the dedication of the HPL Foundation and Friends of the Hinsdale Library.  The library’s strength is also its commitment to providing the services and resources that Hinsdale needs.

What do you believe is the Hinsdale library’s biggest weakness?

I can’t speak directly to any weaknesses, but I do see a continued challenge for the library in serving the community with changing technology while remaining fiscally responsible.  Utilizing the library space in the best way possible to serve evolving needs and wants will also continue to require attention.

Related pages:

  • Election 2013: Hinsdale Library Board of Trustees
  • Naveed Bandukwala
  • Callie Revord
  • John Maguire


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