GET TO KNOW BRENDA

From rural Indiana to Chicago to Kane County
– now on to the KC board

Brenda Engelhardt was born and raised in Lebanon, Indiana.

After graduating from DePauw University in 1986, Brenda moved to the Ravenswood neighborhood of Chicago where she began her career, first as a law librarian, then as a litigation paralegal.

Not only did Brenda learn how to thrive in a fast-paced environment, but she also became proficient in finding information quickly and ensuring its accuracy.

She learned how to stand toe-to-toe and talk truth to power when necessary – qualities she will use to represent you on the Kane County Board.

Born to teach

The qualities that made Brenda a great teacher will make her an excellent county board member:

• Brenda earned two Master’s degrees, one in teaching and one as a reading specialist
• She taught 6th grade in the Geneva school district, also sponsoring activities
  
• Brenda worked closely with families, helping both parents and kids overcome reading, learning and even emotional challenges. She understands the struggles families face as they’re raising kids, coping with financial and other stressors.
  
• Brenda was an active school leader within the Geneva Education Association. She continues her work in literacy as an officer for the Secondary Reading League.
  
  

​Brenda's years in education have strengthened her commitment to improving mental health services for youth. She has seen firsthand the steady rise in student anxiety, depression, and mental health issues. In addition, Brenda believes that awareness around mental health issues can reduce the stigma so that more people will find the help they need.  

Help elect a clear-eyed educator and creative problem solver to represent your interests.

Donate Today

Brenda believes in grit - the idea that you persevere, set high goals and see them through.  She has shown this in her ability to earn a 2nd Dan in Tae Kwon Do.   She also was active in the Girl's Gone Tri Triathlon group through which she trained and ran a half marathon and completed a Half Iron Man race in Racine Wisconsin.  She also supported the Wounded Warriors Project by donation and running in their sponsored events. 


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Today - Brenda and Tom are avid hikers and have hiked all the Forest Preserves in Kane County.  Brenda's goals include keeping Kane's public land, preserves and parks funded and protected for future generations.