Posted on September 14, 2020 at 9:08 AM by Denise Cartina
"Diane is well known in Naperville as the “Mayor” for her ability to get groups of small people together and interact. She has been a member volunteer of the Naperville Running Company for years and served as an assistant coach, providing motivation and running side by side with those who were new, recovering from injury or needed extra support. One of Diane’s passions is cooking which was developed from her deep, Italian family roots. In the Naperville community, Diane took it upon herself to cook healthy and delicious, home-cooked meals and provide them to those who were sick, ill and isolated. I was the recipient many times of her kindness and credit it with my recovery from illness as were many in the Naperville community. There is nothing that Diane cannot make or create. She is well known for her Lemon Chicken, pasta and various pastries and bread. This is no small feat as Diane is a busy mother and works full time in the technology field, a busy and stressful job. In addition to the NRC, Diane also belongs to the Amici Society, a local Italian Club in Naperville. At one of Amici's events, the home made “gravy” sauce contest, Diane came in First Place.
Perhaps most impressive is Diane’s commitment to her family. In addition to her husband and children, Diane is blessed to have her parents with her who are in their 80’s. I have never met anyone more committed to their parents and in laws. Diane plans parties with them. Her 80 plus year old mother loves to cook too and her father also in his 80’s still makes his own wine! Diane embodies the art of inclusion. Even though her Thanksgivings and Easter celebrations include all of her family, some 30 plus members, Diane also includes those she has met in the community who might not have a party or celebration to attend around the holidays.
There is no one I know in the Naperville area who embodies kindness and service like Diane. She is an unsung hero who gifts the community with her infectious smile and delicious food. Thank you for considering her for this important accolade through the Naperville Naper Settlement."
Nominated by Christy N. Carter