Digital Content Producer
Jordilin Ruiz, Digital Content Producer
ROCKFORD, Ill (WREX) – The Jefferson and Wallace Scholarship Endowment has launched a new scholarship that honors the life and legacy of former Illinois State Representative Charles E. Jefferson.
The scholarship will help students pursuing degrees in political science, public administration, public policy, or law to ensure Representative Jefferson’s commitment to service continues through the next generation.
Representative Jefferson became the first Black state representative from Northern Illinois, representing the 67th District from 2001 to 2014.
Representative Jefferson’s legacy continued when Dr. Litesa Wallace succeeded him and made history as the first Black woman to represent the 67th District and the only woman to serve more than one term.
“Representative Jefferson believed in me when I was a young single mother just looking for a way to serve my community,” said Dr. Litesa Wallace. “He not only mentored me in government but also in life, and his wisdom extended to my son as well. His willingness to provide me with the opportunity to be his Chief of Staff helped support my family as I completed my doctoral studies. His legacy of service, integrity, and advocacy must continue. That’s why I am honored to work with his family to establish this scholarship, ensuring that students who share his passion for public service have the support they need to succeed”, said Dr. Litesa Wallace.
Representative Jefferson began his career as a Winnebago County Board member before being appointed to the Illinois House of Representatives where he then became an Assistant Majority Leader.
“Our father, brother, grandfather and uncle dedicated his life to making Rockford and Illinois a better place. He mentored so many people, always believing in the potential of young leaders. This scholarship will continue his work by providing opportunities for students who are committed to public service, just as he was. We are honored to see his legacy live on this way,” said the Jefferson family.
Digital Content Producer
Jordilin Ruiz, Digital Content Producer
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