Kendra Olvany has a Bachelor's degree from Williams College in Massachusetts. She taught English in Japan and worked in international banking before earning her MBA from the Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University. She then worked for United Airlines and Rand McNally, where she helped research, develop and launch a large-print road atlas.

Since retiring to raise her family, Kendra has volunteered at her children's schools and in her community, including serving as a room parent and head of the newcomer and hospitality committees. One of her favorite roles has been running the book fairs at the elementary and middle schools for over a decade.  Kendra also organized the "Gift of Giving" program, which provides gifts to hundreds of needy children during the holidays.  She also serves on the board of the Volunteer Center of New Trier Township overseeing junior high school students and their service projects.

Kendra loves to travel.  She lived in Japan on separate occasions and traveled extensively throughout Asia.  She is also avid reader, which enables her to enjoy armchair travels as well.

Her interest in elderly stems in large part from her experience caring for her mother, who struggled with multiple sclerosis for over forty years.  She has also helped many relatives with their moves into retirement communities and understands the need for organization, compassion, patience and a good sense of humor.

Kendra grew up in Glencoe and has lived in Wilmette with her husband, John, since 1989.  They have two sons who are away at college and two younger daughters who, thankfully, still live at home.