Kane County Health Department Executive Director Barbara Jeffers recently received a letter from a teacher commending a KCHD staffer for a recent presentation. The letter, in part, reads as follows:

“I am writing to commend an employee of the Kane County Health Department, Ben Sylejmani, for generously volunteering his time for a recent community service activity at Technology Center of DuPage (the technical/vocational high school for DuPage County),” wrote Debbora M. Sharifi, an instructor with the Medical & Healthcare Careers Program.

According to Sharifi, Sylejmani volunteered, on his day off, to speak to several classes in the morning and afternoon.

More impressive than his donation of his time, however, was Sylejmani’s presentation to the students, she said.

“It was relevant, engaging and highly motivating,” she said. “Ben spoke about the importance of safety and sanitation, and made direct connections between what students are learning in their health science classes and the ‘real world.’ ”

Sylejmani spoke passionately and enthusiastically about his career in public/environmental health, and about the need for a strong work ethic in order for students to achieve success in college and careers, she noted.

“I received many positive comments from my students following Ben’s presentation. He was an effective role model for these students who are intending to pursue careers in healthcare. I thought you might appreciate knowing what a valuable, dedicated employee you have in Ben Sylejmani,” she said.

SOURCE: Kane County Health Department