Bobbie L. Steele facts for kids

Bobbie L. Steele was born on October 18, 1937. She was an important leader in Cook County, Illinois. She served as a commissioner for 20 years. In 2006, she became the president of the Cook County Board of Commissioners for a short time.

Early Life and Education

Bobbie L. Steele grew up in Cleveland, Mississippi. She finished high school there in 1954. After high school, she studied for two years at Alabama A&M University.

In 1956, Steele moved to Chicago to continue her education. She earned a degree in Elementary Education in 1966. Later, she received her master's degree from Roosevelt University. For 20 years, she worked as a teacher in the Chicago Public Schools.

A Career in Public Service

Bobbie L. Steele was very active in public service. She led the National Association of Black County Officials. She also chaired a committee for the National Association of County Officials.

Steele was a member of several important groups. These included the National Council of Negro Women and the League of Women Voters. She was also part of Lake Shore Links, Incorporated.

Serving as Cook County Commissioner

In 1986, Bobbie L. Steele decided to try something new. She ran for a seat on the Cook County Board of Commissioners. She won the election and began her long career there.

As a commissioner, Steele achieved many important things. She helped create a rule for county purchases. This rule aimed for 25% of purchases to go to minority-owned businesses. It also aimed for 10% to go to women-owned businesses. She also helped create rules about human rights and ethics for the county.

Steele also introduced the idea to rename Cook County Hospital. It was renamed after John H. Stroger Jr., who was the board president. Early in her career, she also helped create a daycare center for county employees. This center is now open and helps many families.

More recently, Steele introduced a project to help people find jobs. This project helps adults who have been in jail for the first time for non-violent crimes. It aims to show that these individuals can succeed if they have a job.

Bobbie L. Steele is the longest-serving African American woman in Cook County's history. She was the first woman to lead the Finance Committee for the Forest Preserve District of Chicago. She also chaired committees for the Department of Corrections, Education, and other areas. In 1993, she was honored by being inducted into the Chicago Women's Hall of Fame.

Becoming Cook County President

In 2006, Bobbie L. Steele became the interim president of the Cook County Board. This happened after the previous president, John Stroger, had a health issue. Her term as president began on August 1, 2006. It ended on December 4, 2006.

Steele's time as president was short, but it was historic. She was the first woman to serve as Cook County Board President. She decided to retire after her term as interim president. She said it was "time for me to move on." John Stroger's son, Todd Stroger, later won the election and became the next president.

Personal Life

Bobbie L. Steele and her husband, Robert, have a large family. They have seven children and thirteen grandchildren.