Jim Kearns Jr. | President
Term: 2025–2031
jkearns@nbpd4fun.org
Jim Kearns Jr. is proud to serve as President of the Board of Commissioners and is passionate about helping make North Berwyn a place where families, neighbors, and residents of all ages can connect, grow, and thrive.
As a lifelong Berwyn resident, Jim brings a deep appreciation for the community and a strong commitment to serving the people who make it special.
Jim has served on the Board of Commissioners since December 2011 and has held the position of Board President since August 2020.
He was re-elected in 2013, 2019, and 2025.
Jim lives in Berwyn with his wife, Paula, and their three children, Benny, Bella, and Billy.
He attended Custer (now Prairie Oak School), Lincoln Middle School, and Morton West High School.
Since 2005, he has worked as an elementary school teacher with Berwyn North School District 98, contributing to the education and development of local students.   
During baseball season, Jim also serves as an usher at historic Wrigley Field, a role he has held since 1998.
Through his work in education and service on the Park District Board, Jim remains dedicated to supporting programs and opportunities that bring people together, strengthen community connections, and enrich the quality of life in North Berwyn.

John Kearns, Vice President
Term 2019-2027
johnkearns@nbpd4fun.org
As a lifelong Berwyn resident, John Kearns is proud to be part of a community built on connection, shared experiences, and neighborhood pride.
As Vice President of the Board of Commissioners, he values the opportunity to work alongside fellow commissioners, staff, and residents to help make North Berwyn a wonderful place to live, grow, and enjoy all that the community has to offer.
John was appointed to the Board of Commissioners in December 2019.
He lives in Berwyn with his daughter, Lizzy, and has deep roots in the community.   
John attended Custer (now Prairie Oak School), Lincoln Middle School, and Morton West High School.
Since 2008, John has worked as a security guard.
Outside of work, he enjoys riding his motorcycle with fellow members of his motorcycle club.
He also values giving back to the community and has participated in several volunteer and fundraising efforts supporting Ride Janie Ride, the Wounded Warrior Project, and Toys for Tots.
John looks forward to continuing to work with his fellow commissioners, staff, and community partners to support the North Berwyn Park District’s growth and provide opportunities that bring people together and help residents feel connected and proud of their community.

Veronica Cortes, Treasurer
Term 2025-2027
vcortes@nbpd4fun.org‍

Veronica Cortes is proud to serve as Treasurer of the Board of Commissioners and is passionate about giving back to the community she calls home.
As a longtime North Berwyn resident, Veronica understands the importance of creating welcoming spaces, meaningful experiences, and recreational opportunities that bring neighbors and families together.
Veronica joined the Board to help advance the Park District’s mission of enriching the lives of North Berwyn residents through quality parks, programs, and community activities.
Her years of community service, civic engagement, and leadership reflect her dedication to making a positive difference.
Veronica believes that strong communities are built through collaboration, inclusion, and a genuine commitment to serving others.
She looks forward to working alongside fellow commissioners, staff, and residents to support initiatives that strengthen community connections and enhance the quality of life for everyone.  

Angel Avalos Jr., Secretary
Term 2023-2029
aavalos@nbpd4fun.org
Angel Avalos, Jr. is proud to serve the North Berwyn community and is excited to help support the parks, programs, and activities that bring families and neighbors together.
Having experienced firsthand the value of community recreation with his own family, Angel understands how important it is to create welcoming spaces and opportunities for residents of all ages to connect and thrive.
Born in Chicago, Illinois, Angel grew up in the Pilsen neighborhood.
After graduating from Archbishop Quigley Preparatory Seminary High School, he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Illinois Chicago.
He later continued his education at Loyola University, where he received a Paralegal Certificate.
Angel has worked as a paralegal since 2012 and currently works at a Chicago law firm, focusing on complex transactions, mergers and acquisitions, and investment services.
Angel moved to Berwyn in 2010 with his wife, and together they have built a family and a life in the community.
Over the years, they have enjoyed Berwyn’s beautiful parks, classes at Pyrce Park, and local parades.
Angel has also shared his love of baseball by coaching several teams in Berwyn and currently coaches with the Pilsen Baseball Athletic League.
As a Commissioner, Angel looks forward to working alongside fellow board members, staff, and residents to strengthen community connections and support programs and recreational opportunities that make North Berwyn a great place for families to live, play, and grow.

Nestor Zavala, Commissioner
Term 2025-2031
nzavala@nbpd4fun.org
Nestor Zavala is proud to serve as a Commissioner and is passionate about helping create a community where everyone feels welcome, supported, and connected.
With more than a decade of experience in community program management and direct service, Nestor brings a strong commitment to public service, inclusion, and improving the quality of life for North Berwyn residents.
A U.S. Marine Corps veteran and first-generation Mexican American, Nestor has dedicated his career to supporting individuals and families from diverse backgrounds, including veterans, older adults, families, and individuals experiencing housing insecurity.
He holds a Master of Social Work from Dominican University and a bachelor’s degree in Communication from Elmhurst University.
Today, he works as a clinical therapist, using a trauma-informed, person-centered approach to help individuals navigate challenges and improve their well-being.   
Fluent in English and Spanish, Nestor is committed to ensuring that North Berwyn’s parks and recreational spaces are clean, safe, accessible, and welcoming to residents of all ages and abilities.
Throughout his career, Nestor has led and collaborated on numerous community initiatives, including Lots of Compassion, Healing the Soul & Green Space, The Veteran Art Initiative, Operation ChiTown Salute, and Operation Enduring Service. These projects reflect his dedication to mental wellness, creative expression, environmental equity, and supporting those who have served our country.
With a deep-rooted passion for community engagement and local leadership, Nestor looks forward to working alongside fellow commissioners, staff, and residents to expand opportunities, strengthen community connections, and help make North Berwyn Park District a place where everyone can thrive.

Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Requests:
All FOIA requests should be directed to
Nestor Zavala via email: nzavala@nbpd4fun.org

JOSEPH C. VALLEZ — Executive Director 
jvallez@nbpd4fun.org
Joseph C. Vallez has worked in Parks and Recreation for approximately twenty nine years, he began his career with the Chicago Park District as a Program Coordinator, and later advanced to the position of Superintendent of Recreation.
Joseph held the position of Director for the Chicago Ridge Park District before returning to the Chicago Park District as a Park Supervisor for the Emiliano Zapata Aquatic and Cultural Center. Joseph was promoted and served for six years as an Area Manager for the Chicago Park District where he managed 12 parks and 5 swimming facilities before accepting the position as Executive Director of the North Berwyn Park District, a position he has held since October, 2000.
Joseph has been recognized for his community service, he has received numerous recognition awards including; American G.I. Community Service Award, the Latin American Police Association Community Service Award, the Berwyn Development Corporation President’s Award, the Chicago Park District Rising Star Award, Berwyn Hispanic Organization “Man of the Year” Award.
Joseph has served on community based Board of Director’s; Mujeras Latinas En Accion, the Berwyn Development Corporation, Chairman of the Berwyn Latino Business Committee, Teatro Luna Theatre, Southwest Suburban Special Recreation Association, West Suburban Special Recreation Association, American G. I. Forum Youth Committee, Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission.