Scholarship honors northern Illinois’ first Black state Rep. Chuck Jefferson

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — A new scholarship, available to students in northern Illinois, will honor the legacy of the region’s first black state representative, Chuck Jefferson.

The Jefferson and Wallace Scholarship Endowment will provide financial support to students pursuing degrees in political science, public administration, public policy, or law.

Jefferson served the state’s 67th District for 14 years. Prior, he served as campaign manager for Charles Box, Rockford’s first black mayor, in the 1980s.

Prior to that, he served in the U.S. Army and on the Winnebago County Board.

Jefferson is remembered for his work to secure resources for key programs in Rockford, including the African-American Resource Center at Booker Washington Community Center, 1005 S. Court Street.

He died in January at the age of 79.

“Rep. Jefferson believed in me when I was a young single mother just looking for a way to serve my community,” former Rep. Litesa Wallace, said.

Wallace succeeded Jefferson as representative of the 67th District.

“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,” she said.

To support the scholarship, organizers will be launching a fundraising campaign throughout March to coincide with Jefferson’s birthday, on March 31st.