Jim Wolinski has been elected president of the Kiwanis Club of Evanston succeeding Dr. Stamata Blanas.
Wolinski, the retired director of Evanston Community Development Department, is an Evanston native. He graduated from Evanston Township High School and holds masters’ degrees from Northwestern University and the University of Illinois in public administration with a concentration in urban planning, city management, and communications.
Wolinski praised Blanas for her innovative approach and partnership with other groups which enabled the club to take on several service projects including the
painting of the City Hall Council Chambers, the cleanup and painting of Shore School’s Church Street facility and projects with Family Focus. She is also credited with beginning the “Faces of Evanston” photography contest, now in its sixth year.
Wolinski said he hopes to focus his presidency on retaining and recruiting new Kiwanis members, as well as increased fund raising. “I’m an Evanston guy who wants to continue the great work Kiwanis does with Evanston High School, Shore School, and those in the community that need our help,” he added.