Dina Vardal

Dina Vardal is a retired law enforcement officer, military veteran, and proud mother. She grew up in a home influenced by Greek and Italian traditions in Joliet, Illinois. Her career in public service spanned more than twenty years, during which she served as a SWAT officer, firearms instructor, and helicopter mechanic with the National Guard. After retiring from the police department and military service, she continued to give back to her community by working as a substitute teacher and volunteering regularly. She enjoys traveling, especially to Greece, cooking traditional meals, and caring for her garden. She was born and raised in Joliet by immigrant parents from different parts of Europe. Her father was from a Greek island, and her mother was from Italy. They settled in Joliet, where her family operated a restaurant for several years. Her mother managed the restaurant, which became a local gathering place. Her father later founded an engineering business with his brother, which remains family-owned and operated today. Dina joined the Army National Guard at seventeen and soon began her college education. She earned an associate degree focused on law enforcement from Joliet Junior College. She then transferred to Western Illinois University, graduating with a major in Law Enforcement Administration and a minor in Accounting. While in college, she held leadership roles and graduated with honors. Later, balancing work and family life, she earned a master’s degree in Organizational Development. Dina Vardal's law enforcement career took her through multiple roles across several cities. She became a certified SWAT officer and was a firearms instructor, teaching standard and concealed carry courses. She also trained new officers to prepare them for the challenges of the job. She also served 22 years as a helicopter mechanic in the Army National Guard.