Palatine businesswoman named Rotarian of the Year

Palatine businesswoman Melanie Santostefano, founder of Vicarious Productions, Inc., a communications firm that specializes in public relations, public information, and marketing communications, was honored with the 2017 Rotarian of the Year distinction from the Rotary Club of Buffalo Grove on June 30.

The Rotarian of the Year award is presented annually to one Rotarian who exemplifies "Service Above Self" and the core principles of the Rotary, which relate to truth, fairness and goodwill to all.

Santostefano was recognized with the accolade due to her promotional efforts relating to the Buffalo Grove Rotary Club through her actions and involvement as the publicity chairman.

Recipients of the award are accomplished in one major activity in club, in multiple activities, or serve on a variety of committees. They are also highly visible in club activities.

The daughter of immigrant parents, Santostefano was raised in Deerfield. Prior to her founding Palatine-based Vicarious Productions, Inc. in 2004, she spent the early part of her professional career working in radio as a news writer, reporter and broadcaster.

Santostefano also is a member of The Bridge Youth and Family Services board of directors, and serves as the publicity chairman.

Other accolades she has received include: 2016 Palatine Pride Award and the 2015 Business Leader of the Year Award, both from the Palatine Area Chamber of Commerce, the 2015 Influential Women in Business Award from the Daily Herald, and also from PACC in 2014, the Business of the Year award.

The Rotary Club of Buffalo Grove is a nonprofit volunteer organization dedicated to local and international service projects, which include literacy programs in local Buffalo Grove elementary schools, partnering with Engineers Without Borders to support international clean water initiatives, sponsorship of international exchange programs and annual support to the End Polio Now initiative.

Vicarious Productions, Inc., is a multifaceted communications firm that specializes in public relations, public information and marketing communications in a highly consultative manner.

Clients include nonprofits, businesses and local government organizations with offered services such as communications consulting, writing, graphic and website design, social media management, photography and videography.