Wilkosz to Head Will County Historic Preservation Commission

Submitted by the Will County Executive’s Office:

An Illinois native with a strong background in architectural history has been named manager of Will County’s Historic Preservation Commission. Janine Wilkosz joined the Will County Land Use Department in August and will be responsible for promoting public awareness of and involvement in historic preservation.

“Will County has experienced remarkable growth over the past ten years and I am impressed with the dedication to historic preservation,” Wilkosz said. “I am excited to join such a progressive county.”

“I am looking forward to expanding and diversifying our Will County landmark portfolio,” she added. “We have some townships that do not have a Will County landmark yet; one of my first objectives is to change that. I am excited to engage with residents in Will County and educate them about the benefits preservation can bring to their communities.”

Wilkosz was raised in Chicago and Willow Springs. She earned her bachelor’s degree in art history from DePaul University in Chicago with an emphasis in architectural history and a master’s degree in Historic Preservation from Columbia University in New York with an emphasis in preservation planning. Most recently, Wilkosz worked for the University of Chicago as an assistant to the head of the Capital Project Delivery department which managed the university’s construction projects. Prior to that, she worked for the Hinsdale Historical Society’s Roger and Ruth Anderson Architecture Center coordinating public outreach programs.

Will County Land Use Department Director Curt Paddock said Wilkosz’ experience and education will help further the mission of the Historic Preservation Commission. Founded in 1992, the commission is dedicated to maintaining the county’s historic preservation ordinance.

“Will County has a long, rich history,” Paddock said. “We want to preserve our past while embracing our future growth. Janine is the perfect person to ensure our important historic landmarks are protected.”

The Will County Land Use Department operates under the office of the Will County Executive Larry Walsh.