About Your Candidate

Why Christina Valdez?

Why Christina Valdez is the Best Candidate for Winnebago County Board District 16

Christina is part of the framework of Winnebago County. Through her volunteer stewardship, she has solidified that her community is her home, and she is determined to take care of her home. Christina’s professional endeavors ensure that she brings a diverse background seen through an investigator’s eye, with a mind focused on best practices in public-sector finance, and a civil servant’s heart. Public Safety, Mental Health, Public Infrastructure, and fiscal oversight are at the core of Christina’s platform. A vote for Christina is a vote for Winnebago County.

Christina would like to be your choice for the seat for the 16th District of Winnebago County Board. Through her passion, drive, and integrity, Christina will help not only uplift the 16th District, but the County as a whole. Her ability to see situations as multi faceted, and important on both sides of the aisle gives her the unique perspective to listen, learn, and act in the best interest of her constituents.

In The Beginning…

Christina was born in Chicago, Illinois, to Rudy and Julia Valdez in 1983. Her family relocated to Rockford a few years thereafter, and Christina was raised here with her two younger sisters, Laura and Catherine. The girls attended St. Bridget and Boylan High School, respectively, where Christina graduated in 2001.

Volunteer History

Christina has been a firm believer in giving back to her community. Her drive for volunteerism is echoed by her family, who are all active members of boards and volunteer initiatives that are dear to all of their hearts. Christina’s volunteer history includes:

  • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Northern Illinois- Current President

  • Rock & Roll Institute- Current President

  • Crusader Community Health Foundation Board- Current Board Member

  • Coalition of Latino Leaders- Current Member

  • Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce- Past Board Member

  • Rockford Public School District Education Committee- Past Member

  • And many more!

Work History

Christina’s background in finance extends back to her first job in banking in 2004. She was a financial crimes investigator for multiple local banks and moved to a career with the City of Rockford overseeing their Capital Improvement Program (CIP). This multi-million dollar budget creation and oversight was funded by tax dollars and government grants, which solidified Christina’s passion for local government work. After several years, Christina moved to CFO of a local construction company before ultimately becoming the Operations Officer for the Rockford Area Arts Council.

The Fam

Christina and her spouse Joel Zirkle have been married since 2022, and proudly parent Maddie (15), Jack (14), and Max (7). Maddie and Jack attend Rockford Public Schools, and Max attends a local private school. The children enjoy their many pets, including dogs, cats, chinchillas, and guinea pigs!