Dear Mr. Christen,

I am writing to express my strong interest in the Full-Time Professional Support Staff vacancy with the Northern Region of the Illinois Federation of Teachers, initially assigned to the Crest Hill Office. As a dedicated educator within the Chicago Public Schools and a professional with a comprehensive background in financial management, organizational administration, and team leadership, I offer a unique combination of labor-adjacent operational experience and a deep commitment to the mission of the IFT.

My career spans over a decade of managing complex operational, regulatory, and administrative workflows. During my tenure as the Financial Reporting Manager for the National Restaurant Association, I successfully managed multi-entity reporting (including 501(c)3 and 501(c)6 structures), coordinated with executive boards, and acted as a key liaison across disparate departments like Legal, Advocacy, and Foundations. This high-level administrative oversight—combined with my foundational years leading assurance teams in public accounting—has equipped me with an exceptional eye for detail, strong organizational systems, and the ability to manage complex contracts and bargaining unit parameters.

Furthermore, my active work as a substitute teacher and graduate studies in Early Childhood Education ground my administrative skills in a first-hand understanding of the daily realities and challenges faced by Illinois educators. I understand the vital role that robust professional support plays in ensuring our classrooms, educators, and support systems thrive. Whether driving administrative efficiency behind the scenes, managing essential organizational data, or collaborating directly with labor stakeholders and executive committees, I bring a collaborative, problem-solving mindset to the Crest Hill team.

I am eager to bring my diverse skill set in administration, foundational management, and hands-on education to the Illinois Federation of Teachers. Thank you for your time, consideration, and the opportunity to interview for this position at the Crest Hill Office.