The following is the response to a Northern Star questionnaire sent to local candidates for the 2021 consolidated election. Answers have been lightly edited for clarity and consistency.

Name: Mary Hess

Education: B.S. Recreation & Park Administration, Illinois State University
M.S. Health, Physical Education & Recreation, Illinois State University

Related Experience:

I have over 20 years of experience working in various roles that have allowed me to strengthen my leadership, management, communication and interpersonal skills. I have worked as a therapist, case manager, youth advocate and program director. Each of these positions required me to carry out multiple responsibilities, including, but not limited to, assessment, program development and delivery, evaluation, budgeting, grant writing, resource and referral, supervising employees and working in a collaborative manner. In addition to my employment history, I also have experience serving on a board. I am currently a trustee on the township board. I also served as a member of the D428 Board of Education from 2013 to 2017.

Why are you running for the position:

As the newest member of the DeKalb Township Board of Trustees, I have developed a more in-depth understanding of township government and the valuable role it plays in helping our neighbors. The majority of my professional life has been dedicated to working to improve the lives of others. My personal life has mirrored that objective by volunteering thousands of hours to local community organizations. I am interested in becoming the next DeKalb Township supervisor because it strongly aligns with my skills, experiences and passion for the community in which I live. I want to play a more significant role in delivering quality of life services to the residents of DeKalb Township.

Goals you want to accomplish if elected:

●  Increase awareness and utilization of the various types of aid and services available through the township.

●  Structure township programs and services to match the current needs of township residents.

●  Work collaboratively with service providers to enhance the delivery of services to township residents.

●  Seek out additional revenue for services and programs through grant writing.

●  Utilize multiple methods of communication to share information with the public about township operations.

●  Increase the use of the township building by local community groups and for the purpose of serving community needs.

Why students/residents should vote for you:

My success as a collaborative and solutions-oriented professional with a “yes, and” attitude has been a cornerstone of my career. I have a record of achieving desirable outcomes and doing more with less. I am committed to improving the quality of life in this community and that will be my number one priority as township supervisor. Please visit my Facebook page, MARY HESS for DeKalb Township Supervisor to learn more about me or to reach out to me for additional information.

The Northern Star is publishing the candidates’ responses to our questions as they are given to us. The Northern Star is not endorsing local candidates. To have your profile published email [email protected].