Endorsement Of Laura Saret: Letter

Written by and submitted on behalf of John D'Anca.

My name is John D’Anca, and I am writing this letter to endorse Laura Saret, who is running for the City Council seat vacated by Paul Frank.

My wife, Carolina and I, are long time residents of Highland Park, however, I have known Laura for more than 30 years, first as a colleague at Oakton Community College, where I teach psychology, and then as a neighbor in Highland Park.

Laura taught business, management, computer technologies, and student success at Oakton. She chaired the computer technologies department, co-chaired the strategic planning committee, created the Teaching and Learning Center for Faculty Development, to name a few of her accomplishments. Laura often came to me for advice regarding students. However, most of my interactions with Laura occurred as a result of her role as Faculty Senate and Faculty Association (IEA/NEA) President.

One of my earliest memories of her phenomenal leadership skills was a conversation I had with Laura regarding an issue that arose during negotiations. Laura listened carefully and brought my concern back to the contract negotiating team who disagreed with my request. Laura then convinced me to get involved in faculty governance and selected me for the next negotiation team.

Laura believes strongly in interest-based problem solving and leads by example. She understands that issues are multi-dimensional and that there are many options to satisfy the interests of those involved. She encouraged diversity of opinion and consensus building among her constituents. No problem was too small for Laura to respond to, and she was very creative in coming up with solutions that met the interests of both the faculty member and the College. Laura treated all faculty with respect, and as a result, the faculty were very loyal to her. During her 15 year-tenure as faculty President, 100% of the 150 faculty joined the union because of her caring and leadership.

Most importantly, Laura is a woman who listens to people and can be their “voice” to others. She was the “voice” of her students and her colleagues at Oakton for more than 30 years. She has been greatly missed since her retirement.

You can learn more about Laura by visiting her website. You will see, as I already know, why she is the best candidate for Highland Park City Council, and you would be lucky to have her represent your voice on the Council.