Our Mission
We believe that when we invest in educators, we invest in the future.
We recognize a great public education can always strive to be even better. Our mission is to advance excellence across every District 34 school by providing supplemental funding for innovative, high-impact initiatives that enrich learning, empower educators, and create opportunities that wouldn't otherwise be possible.
Innovation
Funding bold ideas that transform learning.
Opportunity
Expanding possibilities for every student.
Community
Bringing our community together to invest in education.
Excellence
Supporting high-impact programs that inspire success.
About GEF
Investing in What's Next
The Glenview Education Foundation (GEF) is a volunteer-led nonprofit powered by District 34 parents, caregivers, and community members who believe every student deserves access to exceptional learning opportunities.
We help turn bold ideas into reality by funding innovative, high-impact programs that inspire curiosity, creativity, and deeper learning across District 34. Since our founding in 2001, GEF has invested more than $3 million in grants that empower educators to think beyond the traditional classroom and give students experiences that leave a lasting impact.
Our Board
Our board is made up of dedicated parents, community leaders, educators, and professionals who share a passion for public education. Together, they contribute their time, talents, expertise, and resources to help GEF create extraordinary learning opportunities for every District 34 student.
2026-2027 Executive Committee
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Mary Ko, Chair
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Lauren Klemanski, Vice Chair
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Lauren Paynter, Secretary
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Michelle Bolano, Chair, Events
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Lauren Buccola, Treasurer
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Christina Leong, Grants Chair
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Jina Mackin, Communications Chair
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Jenny Galinski, Fundraising Co-Chair - Business Sponsors
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Melissa Jordan, Fundraising Co-Chair - Business Sponsors
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Beth Reese- Operations Chair
Board Members
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Nicole Rubin
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Joanna Soupos
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Anya Randall
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Lisa Pavic
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Allie Dawson
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Laurie Orenstein
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Tina Parekh
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Lauren Feldman
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Jesica Gebauer
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Jen Patel
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Kaitlin Fiore
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Tracy Carruthers
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Katie Chasen
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Alissa Salmon
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Anu Sarangan
Our volunteer board members serve on one of GEF's executive committees, contributing their unique skills and expertise to advance our mission and support the Foundation's work throughout the year.
Advisory Board
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Catherine Gray
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Betsy Nelson
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Rob Nanney
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Jim Garcia
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Cynthia Garcia
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Laurie Moll
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Ellie Peterka
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Lori Poticha
Our Advisory Board is made up of former GEF leaders who continue to share their experience, institutional knowledge, and guidance, helping preserve our legacy while supporting future leadership.
District Representatives
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Dane Delli, D34
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Brian Engle, D34
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Rebecca Latham, D34
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Vasilios Soupos, BOE
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Claire Bansberg, GEA
District 34 administration, the Board of Education, and the Glenview Education Association each have a seat at the table, ensuring strong collaboration and alignment between GEF and the schools we proudly support.
Join the GEF Board
Help shape the future of learning in District 34.
GEF is powered by passionate parent and community volunteers who believe every student deserves access to innovative learning opportunities. As a board member, you'll help bring bold ideas to life, support our schools, and make a lasting impact on thousands of students.
Each spring, we welcome new board members for the upcoming school year. Whether you have experience in fundraising, communications, events, finance, or simply a desire to give back, we'd love to connect.