HUMANE SOCIETY HAS NEW LEADER
Jodie Arquilla joined the Hinsdale Humane Society as president last week.
Arquilla brings 15 years of experience in hands-on operations, corporate management and leadership. Her core knowledge of fostering a supportive and collaborative culture aligns perfectly with the humane society board’s vision for a high standard of excellence and accountability across every department.
“Arquilla’s compassion for animals and longstanding ties to the local community will ensure a smooth transition,” the board stated in a press release. “We are confident that her strategic leadership will drive improvement, maintain strong financial health and foster a volunteer-and customer-centric environment.”
Jacki Rossi moved into the new position of senior director of community development. Rossi has been a valuable contributor to HHS for seven years, seeing the organization through the transition to a new facility and the COVID pandemic. Her dedication and passion for the organization, particularly its role in supporting our staff, animals, community and programs, have been instrumental in the agency’s continued success.
“Ms. Rossi’s demonstrated expertise in building relationships with donors will allow her to continue making a significant impact by focusing her efforts on fundraising and expanding our reach into surrounding communities,” the release stated. “This new position will allow Ms. Rossi to focus entirely on community development efforts, leveraging her strengths.”
CENTRAL THEATER STUDENTS CITED
Hinsdale Central’s Caroline Walsh and Arjun Shah were nominated by Broadway in Chicago for the Illinois High School Musical Theatre Awards for their roles in “Into the Woods.”
They were chosen from the top 12 actors and actresses from more than 300 applications from 80 different Illinois schools. They were recognized and had the chance to perform May 13 at the Broadway Playhouse in Chicago.
HC FUNDRAISER HONORS TEACHERS
The Hinsdale Central Foundation raised more than $1,300 in its Teacher Appreciation Week fundraiser.
Individuals made donations in honor of teachers and staff members.
The following individuals were recognized.
Teachers Marvin Brieg, Jennifer Cummings, Matt Doll, Justin Esau, Jason Hayes, Hiu Kao, Lisa Korbitz, Christian Korfist, Rick Lapinski, Alisha McCloud and Sanskruti Patel.
Counselors Robert Aurich and Renee Curran.
Student Council sponsors Kristen Bronke and Sally Phillip.
COLLEGE STUDENTS EARN DEGREES
These Hinsdale students earned bachelor’s degrees at commencement ceremonies following the 2024 spring semester at their respective colleges and universities.
• Olivia Fallon, finance, University of Georgia
• Erin Golon, University of the Cumberlands
• Katherine Hughes, journalism, summa cum laude, University of Georgia
LEMONADE STAND RAISES FUNDS
Claire Sizer, a preschooler at St. Isaac Jogues School, raised more than $1,100 at a lemonade stand May 19. She has donated the funds to the Love Like Sean Foundation.
TEENS COMPLETE YC2 PROGRAM
Several Hinsdale students graduated May 8 from the 2024 Young Community Changemakers leadership development program sponsored by Community Memorial Foundation.
They are Hinsdale Central students Abdullah Ahmed, Rami Azim, Aidan Babaran, Harun Bilici, Allison Garchar, David Leung, Sabil Musabji, Ayla Mushtaq, Ella Parker-Briones, Isaac Schloegel, Udayvir Sharma and Bodie Teuscher; and Nazareth Academy students Margaret Anos and Molly McGarry.
The students, selected from a pool of applicants who completed written essays on the topics of service and leadership, met from January through April to explore the social challenges in the community, learn about philanthropy, review grant applications, conduct site visits and ultimately award grants to local nonprofit organizations.
