Greenwood Takes Office; Looks Towards Better Future for Illinois

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – With plans of economic development, funding for schools and strengthening relationships between law enforcement and the community, state Rep. LaToya Greenwood took the oath of office, beginning her work as state representative on Wednesday.

“Throughout my life I have made it my personal mission to serve others, and I intend to carry out that same mission in the General Assembly,” said Greenwood. “I want people to know I am accessible when they need me, and I am accountable to their concerns.”

Greenwood is a longtime resident of the East St. Louis area and a devoted public servant to the local community. Greenwood has served as a councilwoman for the city of East St. Louis since 2011 and has worked as an administrator for the local school district. Prior to her work in the community, she attended Michigan State University where she pursued a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and later went on to receive her master’s degree in Public Administration and Policy. Greenwood’s passion and devotion inspired her to come back to East. St. Louis and make a difference in her community.

“Having the opportunity to serve as the voice in Springfield for members of the local community is truly humbling,” said Greenwood. “I understand there is much work to be done to move Illinois in the right direction, but I’m ready and willing to work towards resolving the budget crisis so we can create jobs, stimulate the local economy, and to protect our schools from harmful cuts.”

Greenwood is ready to see changes occur in her district, such as downtown revitalization and the return of local businesses to the area. She plans on creating a metro-east economic development board to allow members of the community and local leaders to discuss and proactively find ways to bring jobs to the area. Greenwood is looking to host job fairs and professional development workshops for residents who are seeking employment.

“There are many people out of work and struggling to provide for themselves and their families,” said Greenwood. “I believe when jobs are created people are put to work and many residents want the opportunity to work and create a better future for themselves and their family. I will work relentlessly to find job opportunities for local residents and help to stimulate the local economy.”

Through her work as an administrator for the local school district in East St. Louis, Greenwood is passionate about improving the quality of education that students receive in her area. She intends on voting to protect funding for local schools, and she supports a fair funding plan that does not neglect the needs of students’ downstate while other districts receive more state funding.

“Our children and the quality of their education should be a priority; our children are our future and we must invest in our schools to give students the opportunity to succeed,” said Greenwood. “I am looking forward to working with parents, teachers, and local school superintendents to find ways to better the quality of education our students receive.”

Greenwood is excited to meet with various members of the community as she walks door-to-door and continues to build partnerships with local organizations of the community. Greenwood plans to host satellite office hours in locations outside her main office to better serve all residents in her district, and she will be visiting local coffee shops to engage with residents in dialogue over a cup of coffee.

“I believe the greatest privilege of being an elected official is being able to engage with people, hear their concerns and find ways or resources to improve their quality of life,” said Greenwood. “Swearing in today is only the beginning of my journey to improve the quality of life for those I serve; I take on the challenge and I look forward to a better future for the state of Illinois.”

State Rep. Greenwood will represent the 114^th district which includes East St. Louis, Lebanon, Mascoutah, Millstadt, O’Fallon, Shiloh, Smithton, St. Clair, Stookey, Engelmann, Centreville, Canteen, Belleville, and Freeburg. Greenwood is encouraging members of the community to visit her constituent service office which is located at 4700 State Street in East. St. Louis and can be reached at (618) 875-9950 or staterepgreenwood@gmail.com.