Superintendent Greg Guarrine Makes a Difference

February 27, 2008 | Leave a Comment

Ask a busy man like Dr. Gregory Guarrine why he makes time to volunteer with Northwest Suburban United Way and he’ll tell you it’s all about the community connection.
“Being involved with United Way is a chance to give back,” said Dr. Guarrine, Superintendent of Prospect Heights School District 23. “Knowing the good things United Way does for so many people is extremely satisfying. It’s a way to stay connected to the community.”
Greg has called the Chicago area home his entire life. He was born at Oak Park Hospital and grew up in Melrose Park, attending Sacred Heart Catholic Elementary School and St. Joseph High School in Westchester. After two years at Triton Junior College in River Grove, he went on to Illinois State University in Normal to earn a Bachelor in Education.
“My mother prized education,” recalled Greg. “She was a stay-at-home mom and her formal education only went through high school, but she always wanted her children to go to college. And she was always interested in teaching and education.”
Inspired by this maternal fervor, Greg continued on to Northern Illinois University for a Masters in School Administration and Roosevelt University for a Doctorate in Education and Educational Administration.
In 1989, his career in Prospect Heights School District 23 began as Director of Student Services and Curriculum Planning which eventually evolved into the position of Assistant Superintendent. As the District’s Superintendent for the past five years, he has come full circle in his efforts to improve the quality of education in the community.
As a natural progression of his passion to help youth succeed, Greg got involved with United Way during his years at District 23. He recognized the opportunity to have a positive influence on the lives of others not just as a professional but also as a volunteer. He witnessed the impact United Way had on the community and the families and children he worked with every day.
“The connection United Way has to community organizations is unique. We know the resources are going to specific people with specific needs instead of a general donation or fund,” explained Greg. “I donate to United Way because the dollars go directly to folks for essentials that are important to daily survival.”
Over the years, Greg has stepped up his involvement with United Way. He joined the Golf Committee helping to plan the annual United Way Golf Classic in memory of George Gattas; he became the Campaign Leader at District 23 and coordinated the employee campaign; and, in 2006, he joined the Northwest Suburban United Way Board of Directors. This year, in addition to his position on the Executive Committee as First Vice-President, he also has come forward as the new Chairman of Special Events, overseeing both the Golf Classic and the Day at the Races.
“I started working with Greg over eight years ago,” says Marcia McMahon, Chief Professional Officer of Northwest Suburban United Way. “His willingness to get involved and make a real difference in the community is what makes him one of our most valuable volunteers.”

Posted by Penni Jess | Filed Under News, Volunteers