2023 Woman of Distinction – René Bue

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René Bue: Hedberg Public Library

René Bue is the mother of two and has four grandchildren whom she adores.  Family is very important to her including her ancestors who were strong women and great role models.  They taught her the importance of being involved in the community where one lives and of being a voice for the voiceless.

Ms. Bue started her community service at a young age when she hosted two Jerry Lewis MDA Backyard Carnivals.  This was just the beginning of what would be a lifetime of giving back to her community and working to make a difference in the lives of her neighbors.

In 2005 Ms. Bue was thinking about moving out of Janesville because she felt that she no longer belonged here.  However, she quickly realized she wasn’t going anywhere when her daughter told her that she was pregnant with her first grandchild.  Instead, René told herself that if she was going to stay in Janesville, she was going to be part of creating the changes for her hometown to be a more welcoming community for everyone.

This led to her being involved with several organizations including the American Business Women’s Association, the Diversity Action Team of Rock County, the JPD Latino and African American Liaison Advisory Committees, the Latino Service Providers Coalition, the Immigrant Support Network, the Allies of Native Nations, Nutrition & Health Associates, the City of Janesville’s Emergency Management Team, and the Rock County Anti Human Trafficking Task Force, to name a few.

Ms. Bue also carries out her community service through her jobs as the Community Engagement Manager at Hedberg Public Library, Inclusive Services Consultant for Prairie Lakes Library System, and adjunct instructor for Blackhawk Technical College.  She feels honored to be able to serve the community where she has spent most of her life.