Dina Vardal

Dina Vardal has lived a life of dedication to service, shaped by her roots, career, and family. Raised in Joliet, Illinois, she grew up in a household influenced by her father’s Greek heritage and her mother’s Italian traditions. The values instilled by her immigrant parents guided her path into public service, where she worked tirelessly in law enforcement, served her country in the National Guard, and built a legacy of strength, compassion, and leadership.

Her childhood was rich with culture and community connection. From 1982 to 1989, her family owned Mykonos Gyros, a restaurant that became a hub where neighbors gathered for food and fellowship. Her father also co-founded Vardal Engineering in 1958, a company still family-owned today. Surrounded by hard work, she learned early the importance of perseverance and service, lessons that influenced her decision to pursue a life dedicated to protecting and guiding others.

At just 17, Dina joined the Army National Guard, beginning a lifelong commitment to service. She also pursued education, earning an associate degree in Law Enforcement in 1990 before graduating Magna Cum Laude from Western Illinois University in 1992. Years later, she furthered her education by completing a master’s degree in Organizational Development in 2007, balancing her studies with the demands of work and family. Her academic success reflected her focus and determination.

Her law enforcement career spanned over two decades, during which she became a certified SWAT officer, firearms instructor, and mentor to new officers. She worked with discipline and composure in high-pressure situations while sharing her knowledge with others. Parallel to this, she served in the National Guard for 22 years as a helicopter mechanic, crew chief, and fitness coordinator. Her tours in Panama and Germany broadened her worldview while reinforcing her dedication to teamwork and resilience.

After retiring, Dina Vardal turned her attention to education and volunteer service. She worked as a substitute teacher, bringing her calm and structured approach to the classroom, and contributed to her community through Meals on Wheels, food banks, and her church. Today, she finds joy in traveling to Greece, scuba diving, cooking traditional meals, and tending her garden. In 2022, she married Noe DeLeon Jr., and above all, she treasures her role as mother to her daughter, Danira, who remains her most significant source of joy and purpose.