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Politics & Government

In Their Own Words: Meet Park Board Candidate Susan Vander Veen

Here's a brief autobiography of Susan Vander Veen, a candidate for the Geneva Park Board running against Sherry O'Berry.

I have a bachelor of landscape architecture degree from Michigan State University and have worked in the green industry as a Registered Landscape Architect for more than 30 years. As an RLA with experience in creating recreational master plans and neighborhood parks, I am uniquely qualified to continue as a park commissioner. My expertise complements the district’s professionally diverse board.

My husband, Jim, and I moved with our children from Michigan to Geneva in 1995. We love living in Geneva. Since then, I have been actively involved with our community, as a Beautification Committee member, St. Peter Barn Sale / Harvest Moon Auction volunteer, Geneva Cultural Arts volunteer, Geneva Garden Club member and past president.

During my tenure as Geneva Park District commissioner, I’ve been treasurer, vice president and currently president. We passed the Open Space Referendum of 2000, developed Sandholm Park, built the Stephen D. Persinger Recreation Center at Peck Farm and the Moore Park Sprayground.

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Some of the awards GPD received during my term include: Illinois Association of Park Districts Distinguished Accreditation, 1999, 2005, 2011; National Recreation and Park Association recognition for Best Aquatic Facility, Sunset Pool / Moore Park Sprayground, 2008; and two awards from U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Chicago Wilderness Conservation: Leadership in Conservation Award and the Conservationand Native Landscape Award for Mill Creek Community Park, 2010.

I love this community. It is a privilege to work with the GPD staff and board. I look forward, with enthusiasm, to continue serving Geneva residents for a third term.

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Editor's note: Geneva Patch invited candidates in local contested races—for Park Board, School Board and City Council seats—to tell us a little bit about themselves in 300 words or less. Candidates also are invited to submit a final essay prior to the election.

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