(From January 2009) My family and I have been members of Transfiguration for about a year and a half. We moved to Oak Lawn after living in Galena and Bolingbrook. My wife Juel and I were married in 1990 and we have two children, Eddie (11) and Leah (9). Juel and I are both natives of Oak Lawn, we both attended Oak Lawn High School and Illinois State University. I was a member of St. Raphael the Archangel in Oak Lawn where my father was the rector from 1963 to 1988. I have been an educator since 1990, with teaching experience at both the high and middle school levels. For the past six years, I have been a school administrator and for the last four years, Principal of a middle school in LaGrange. Juel and I were attracted to Transfiguration for several reasons. First, we wanted to find a church home that openly celebrated its children and provided multiple opportunities for their spiritual and personal growth. Secondly, we wanted a church that reflected an emphasis on building positive relationships within its own congregation and the community around it. Third, we wanted to be part of an inclusive and compassionate congregation. We found all three and more at Transfiguration. As a member of the vestry, I will be dedicated to maintaining and building on the wonderful traditions and ministries that Transfiguration offers, as well as working with all stakeholders to provide guidance and leadership to meet the challenges of the future, ensuring that Transfiguration remains a growing and vibrant Episcopal church.