On Aug. 29, Deb Finnegan was officially recognized for her retirement at the Lemont High School football game. This pivotal point in Finnnegan’s career allowed for our new Activities and Athletics administrator, Autum Setta to fully embark in her new role.
With Finnegan retiring from her position as the administrative assistant for the Department of Activities and Athletics, vice principal Matthew Doherty reflects on the transition taking place in the administration office this year. Doherty considers Finnegan’s impact beyond the classroom, having both worked alongside her as a staff member and as a student himself.
“When someone is part of a community for a really long time, it becomes pretty bittersweet when they leave because you get to know them. They become a friend,” Doherty said.
Coming up on his 20th year at LHS, Doherty reflects on this administrative shift as intimidating but necessary, also highlighting the exciting potential of Setta and what is in store for LHS.
“[Setta] just so positive,” Doherty said. “When stuff just works [at LHS,] it’s because of what she’s doing and I think that’s what she’s going to excel at.”
From vendors at sporting events to seating and ticket sales, Setta is stepping into a hands-on role with extensive experience and qualifications.
“She doesn’t just understand what needs to happen in an office managerial setting, but the context and the ramifications of the decisions that are made in this space,” Doherty said.
Doherty notes that Setta’s background uniquely prepared her for the job.
Before coming to LHS, she worked for years as an athletic trainer and later in Loyola University’s orthopedic department.
“[Setta is] super qualified because she essentially did this kind of work for the department at the hospital,” Doherty said. “She’s also super positive, kind and patient, which makes her a great fit for this community.”
Doherty also noted Setta’s ability to connect with students through extracurricular activities.
“That connection is really meaningful because it’s so hands-on,” Doherty said.
So far, Setta has been enjoying her time at LHS and looks forward to uplifting the atmosphere in the more office setting she works in.
“Everyone’s been so great. It’s been so nice. People are just great. I mean, Mr. Somerville and Mr. Dyer are amazing to work with. So it just kind of has that fun feel,” Setta said.
Setta also has past experience in other jobs related to the athletic department.
“I worked at Lincoln West High School [and I] kind of stayed in the Lincolnway area for about like six years, I’d say. Then after that, I took a new job at Loyola, so I worked in the orthopic department there, as an athletic trainer,” Setta said.
With all of the pressure on her shoulders, Setta is prepared to give it her all in her new position.
“I just want to work hard, [and] do a good job for everyone in the school because you forget [that] this job affects everyone too,” Setta said.
