Oakton board confers Wadhwa trustee emeritus recognition

In recognition of his 30 years of service and distinguished leadership as an Oakton Community Collegetrustee, outgoing trustee Jody Wadhwa, of Northbrook, was given the distinction of trustee emeritus by his board colleagues. Emeritus status is an honor conferred by the college to show respect for a distinguished career.

The board unanimously approved a resolution granting emeritus status, recognizing Wadhwa’s service with distinction by giving unselfishly of his time, effort and wisdom.

The resolution reads: “The members of the Board of Trustees of Oakton Community College, and through them, the people of Illinois Community College District 535, and all of the staff, faculty, and administrators of the College, express their deep appreciation to Jody Wadhwa for the dedicated manner in which he has served as a member, and as an officer of the board, and for all of his contributions to the cause of higher education in the community and state.”

Elected to the Oakton board in 1987, Wadhwa was elected by his peers as chairman of the board five times—1992-93, 1995-96, 2005-06, 2006-07 and 2012-13. He also served eight terms as vice chair and three terms as secretary.

“I want to thank Jody for his many years of service and contributions to the college,” said Board Chairman William Stafford. “He was a tremendous mentor to me when I came to the board in 2008 and remains a great friend.”

“Jody had a hand in hiring two presidents and has helped the institution, as well as his colleagues, through the years because of his life experiences and his different approach to issues,” said Trustee Ann Tennes, outgoing board chair.

“Jody has fiercely held values that truly guide his life. He believes in the value of education, the value of peaceful resolutions to conflict and the value of actively contributing to one's community,” said Oakton President Joianne Smith. “He lives these values and has helped the college community live those values.”