D36 Alum, Northfield Village President Fred Gougler, Honored as "Man of the Year" by Winnetka-Northfield Chamber of Commerce
D36 alum Fred Gougler, President of the Village of Northfield, was honored as “Man of the Year” by the Winnetka-Northfield Chamber of Commerce at its 41st Annual Recognition Luncheon on April 12. As Village President, Fred is responsible to work with trustees and Village staff to oversee finances, ensure public safety, encourage economic development, and improve infrastructure in Northfield. He attended Crow Island School and graduated from The Skokie School in 1967. He graduated from New Trier High School, studied at University of Rochester, and went on to earn his M.B.A from University of Illinois.
Fred fondly remembers growing up in Winnetka during the Baby Boom era of the 1950s and 60s, when children rode riding bikes all around town and doors were kept unlocked. His early years in Winnetka helped hone his leadership skills. “I believe that people can make a difference in this world. That is the most wonderful thing I learned growing up in Winnetka,” he says.
For those who who may want to follow in his footsteps as a civic leader, Fred shares valuable insight. “My advice to students of any age is not to wait to grow up to make a difference but start now. You will remember most fondly that which you have given, not that which has been given to you. But give freely and generously from your heart because you truly care about others. Everyone has something special to offer – including you.”