BURBANK, IL [DOM Communications] – Several months ago, the Diocese of the Midwest began a search for a part time bookkeeper. At the conclusion of this process, Mrs. Angie Kladis was hired. The Office of Communications presents this brief introduction to the new bookkeeper of the diocese.
Angie, you started working a few months ago for the diocese as the new bookkeeper – would you share a little bit about your background?
I was born in Greece and moved to Chicago as an infant with my family. We lived on the South side of Chicago, Gage Park, until I was eleven and then my family moved to Palos Hills. At the age of 16, an amazing man by the name of Jim Roupas hired me at his accounting firm, in Palos Hills, for my first “real job.” And that’s where my love for numbers began. Not only did I get a wonderful hands on education in accounting and bookkeeping, but he taught me how to deal with clients, and skills that aren’t learned in school. I will forever be grateful for Jim as a mentor and friend. After graduating from Stagg High School, I attended DePaul University, where I earned a double major in Marketing and Business Administration. Then I continued to earn my MBA from DePaul. I have worked in marketing, auditing and consulting, but life keeps bringing me back to accounting and bookkeeping in some capacity for close to 40 years (even though I’m really only 25 years old). As a side note, I worked for Jim Roupas for about eight years, and now, 30 years later, I’m back there! Unfortunately, we lost Jim a year ago, but his son and nephew have successfully taken over and grown the company. When hired, I was told that “it would be nice to end where I started.” And that’s my plan.
When you heard about the availability of the position, what made you want to help the Church in this way?
I’ve always been involved with the Church and felt it would be a great opportunity to give back since I have received so much from the Church. I grew up and am a member of Sts. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church in Palos Hills, not far from St. Luke Church. However, I have been attending St. Luke for the past several months and enjoy the service, Fr. Paul and the parishioners who have been very welcoming.
Since joining the diocesan staff, what has been some of the more interesting parts of your job, or is there something that has been surprising to you?
The most interesting aspect has been to see how many people are involved and care for the well-being of the Diocese.
What are some other interests or hobbies that you are involved in outside of your profession?
I love to cook and bake! Also, I have three sons, ages 21, 23 and 25. The oldest lives at home and works in his field, the two youngest live at home when not living away at school. Keeping up with them keeps me busy. Between the boys and my husband, I can never have enough food in the house when everyone is home!
