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.
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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 Fagel and
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 has served as the Senate
Majority Caucus Whip for the past two legislative sessions.
| 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. |  |
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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. |