Chamber Volunteer of the Year: Diane Pagoulatos

Guests arriving at major Chamber events can look forward to a warm welcome from ambassador and volunteer Diane Pagoulatos. At registration tables for the Auction & Taste, Golf Outing, State of the Village and more, Diane is a familiar face ready to provide a name tag, a program and a smile. Her spirit of hospitality and willingness to help is the basis for her selection as 2025 Volunteer of the Year.

Diane’s career journey developed her skills in communication, empathy, and advocacy on behalf of others. A junior high foreign language teacher for 30+ years, she worked with students from a range of cultural and socio-economic backgrounds. During summers, she also served as a translator for various airlines, helping to welcome Chicago visitors from around the world. After retiring from her teaching career, she became active in her local homeowners’ association, rising to leadership positions in both her own association board and national advocacy groups ACTHA and CAI. 

As an officer with ACTHA, Diane joined the Northbrook Chamber because she saw the value in connecting the organization with the north shore community. She later joined the firm of Dickler Kahn Slowikowski & Zavell as a marketing rep, with the goal of expanding the firm’s marketing and community outreach. Again, NCCI membership was an important tool for boosting the firm’s profile.

“Northbrook had the most robust chamber involving businesses both small and large from a variety of industries. That was where we wanted to be,” she notes. “We were accepted with open arms even though we were based outside Northbrook.”

Joining the Chamber’s Ambassador program in 2022, Diane enjoys the many opportunities for connecting with new and prospective members at after hours, ribbon cuttings and other events. She always makes herself available to serve at the registration tables for major events, making an extra effort to greet members by name and make sure newcomers feel comfortable. 

“It’s so much fun to welcome people to our events,” says Diane. “I know for new people, it makes a big difference to have someone remember their name and make a personal connection.”

Diane’s dedication and spirit help make the Chamber a warm and welcoming place. She demonstrates that at any stage of your career, you can contribute and participate in meaningful ways.