A native of Chicagoland, State Senator John J. Cullerton earned a Bachelor's degree in Political Science from Loyola University Chicago, as well as a Juris Doctorate from Loyola University's prestigious School of Law. While a student, he served as President of the Loyola University Chicago Student Bar Association.

Cullerton began his career in law by serving as a Chicago Assistant Public Defender for five years before he started with Chicago's law firm of Thompson Coburn Fagel Haber, where he continues working as a partner.

In 1976, Cullerton's service in public office began after being elected to the Illinois Delegation to the Democratic National Convention. In 1979, he was elected to the Illinois General Assembly and served as a member of the House of Representatives for 12 years. Throughout Cullerton's 6-term career in

the Illinois House, he served as the Speaker Pro Tempore and Democratic Floor Leader.

In 1992, Cullerton was elected to the Illinois Senate, representing the state's 6th Legislative District. Because of his vast knowledge of the law, Cullerton serves as the Democratic Co- Chairman on the Senate's Judiciary Civil Law Committee. He also serves as Vice-Chairman on the Insurance Committee, as well as a member of the Judiciary Criminal Law Committee and the Revenue Committee. Senator Cullerton served as the Senate Majority Caucus Whip from January 2007-January 2009. On January 14, 2009, Cullerton was inaugurated to his first two-year term as President of the Illinois Senate.

At the conclusion of both the 93rd and 94th General Assembly, Cullerton was recognized for sponsoring more bills then any other legislator as well as having the most bills signed by the Governor.

In addition, Cullerton accepted the "Highway Safety Hero" award from the Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety. In December 2000, Cullerton was honored with the "Distinguished Leadership Service Award" presented to him by Children's Memorial Hospital. The Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police also selected Cullerton as Public Official of the Year in 2001.


Cullerton's contribution to the Illinois State Senate has been dedicated to issues such as traffic safety, gun control, and the reform to the criminal justice system. He also serves as a member of the Board of Directors at the Center for Disability and Elder Law, an organization that provides legal services for persons over 60 or with disabilities.In addition Cullerton serves on the board of the Irish Repertory Theater.