Guy "Lefty" Vena

Guy Donald “Lefty” Vena is a 1952 graduate of Hinsdale Central, where he had a distinguished career as an athlete, lettering in four sports in 1949 - 52. Lefty was named All-State in football and All Conference in baseball (twice).  Lefty was a founder of the forerunner to the Hinsdale Youth Center. 

  He continued his stellar career at Bemidji State University where he was a speech-and- drama major, named All-American in football in the school’s division, and named to the All-Conference Baseball Team (twice). Guy was the sports editor of the college newspaper, and was elected vice-president of the student body.  Today Bemidji State annually presents “The Guy Vena Award” to the most inspirational athlete of the year.

Guy spent 2 years in the United States Army and obtained his Masters Degree in Education Administration.

Post College Lefty spent 38 years in all facets of high school education in Arlington Heights including teaching (English), coaching (4 different sports) and administration.  Guy held the positions of Assistant Principal, School Treasurer and Dean of Students.

Among Lefty’s honors are President of the Dean’s Association of Illinois, the Bemidji State Outstanding Alumnus award, induction into the Athletic Hall of Fame of that college, and recent election to the Bemidji State Alumni Board.

Lefty, who is now retired, and his wife Marcia and have six children.

Copyright © 2000-2021 HCHS Foundation.  All rights reserved.