Oswego Public Works Director Honored With National Award

OSWEGO, IL — Oswego's public works director was honored with a national award for her work ethic and dedication to service in the community.

Jennifer Hughes won the Top Ten Public Works Leader award from the American Public Works Association, which recognizes career service to the public works profession.

She was recognized and commended for her service at the May 16 Village Board meeting.

"I couldn't have received this award without having an incredible team surrounding me at every step," Hughes said in a statement. "We've accomplished so much together to make Oswego and our world healthier, safer, and prosperous, and hopefully happier."

During her nearly 10 years with the Village of Oswego, Hughes has planned and managed infrastructure projects, overseen the village's wells and water mains and provided essential services, including waste collection and road maintenance.

Hughes' notable career highlights in Oswego include leading the creation of the master plan for widening Wolf's Crossing Road, managing a multi-year plan to bring Lake Michigan water to Oswego and overseeing downtown improvements. She also leads a team of 27 that's dedicated to plowing roads during winter snowstorms, removing downed tree branches after severe weather and filling potholes in the summer.

"Jennifer is truly deserving of this award," Village President Ryan Kauffman said in a statement. "As a growing community, Oswego must balance maintenance of its current infrastructure, ongoing growth and keeping an eye to the future. Jennifer has done that through her entire time with the Village, ensuring we can meet the needs of future generations of Oswegoans."

Hughes graduated from the University of Notre Dame. Her background includes working for the Indiana Department of Transportation and the Village of Lincolnshire.