PoliSci Pathways: Rep. Robin Kelly's Journey from NIU to Congress

Join the NIU Department of Political Science as they host Rep. Robin Kelly who will reflect on her path from NIU to the halls of Congress and her career in public service. She will share practical advice for students interested in launching careers in politics, public policy and public service.

Kelly, who earned a Ph.D. in political science from Northern Illinois University, has dedicated her career to public service as an advocate for Illinois families. Since being elected to serve the 2nd Congressional District in 2013, she has worked to expand economic opportunity, community wellness, and public safety across the state, championing numerous initiatives to generate job growth, reduce health disparities, and end gun violence.

Prior to her election to Congress, Kelly was a member of the Illinois House of Representatives, served as Chief Administrative Officer of Cook County (the second largest county in the United States) and was Chief of Staff to Illinois State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias - becoming the first African American woman to serve as Chief of Staff to an elected constitutional statewide officeholder.