Dina Vardal

Dina Vardal is a retired law enforcement officer, proud military veteran, and dedicated mother whose life reflects service, discipline, and resilience. Raised in Joliet, Illinois, she grew up in a household shaped by Greek and Italian traditions that influenced her values and outlook. Over more than twenty years, she served her community and country as a SWAT officer, firearms instructor, and helicopter mechanic with the Army National Guard before transitioning into teaching and volunteering. Her roots run deep in her hometown, where her immigrant parents built a life defined by hard work and culture. Her father, from Mykonos, and her mother, from Ferrara, Italy, settled in Joliet and raised Dina with strong family ties. Together, they ran Mykonos Gyros in the 1980s, a gathering place where neighbors shared meals and friendship. The family also sustained Vardal Engineering, a business started in 1958 that remains a symbol of their commitment to community. Dina’s path toward public service began early when she enlisted in the Army National Guard at just 17. Alongside her training, she pursued education at Joliet Junior College, earning an associate degree in Law Enforcement in 1990. She continued her studies at Western Illinois University, graduating Magna Cum Laude in 1992 with a major in Law Enforcement Administration. Years later, she achieved a master’s degree in Organizational Development, proving her dedication to lifelong learning. Her law enforcement career was distinguished and demanding, with roles that required both strength and mentorship. As a certified SWAT officer and firearms instructor, she trained recruits and taught concealed carry courses. In parallel, she devoted 22 years to the National Guard, where she served as a helicopter mechanic and later as a crew chief, ensuring mission readiness and leading others. Her service took her to Panama and Germany, expanding her skills and cultural awareness.