Bobbie L. Steele facts for kids

Bobbie L. Steele was an important leader in Cook County, Illinois. She was born on October 18, 1937. She made history as the first woman to become the president of the Cook County Board of Commissioners. This happened on August 1, 2006. Before this, she served as a commissioner for the 2nd district of Cook County for 20 years. Her time as president ended on December 4, 2006.

Who is Bobbie L. Steele?

Bobbie L. Steele dedicated many years to public service. She worked hard to improve life for people in Cook County. Her career shows how one person can make a big difference.

Early Life and Education

Bobbie L. Steele was born in Cleveland, Mississippi. She lived there until she finished high school in 1954. After high school, she attended Alabama A&M University in Huntsville, Alabama for two years.

In 1956, Steele moved to Chicago. She wanted to continue her education there. She graduated from Chicago's Teacher's College in 1966. She earned a degree in Elementary Education. Later, she went to Roosevelt University. There, she earned her master's degree. This degree was in Supervision and Administration of Education. For 20 years, Bobbie L. Steele worked for the Chicago Public Schools. She helped many students learn and grow.

A Career in Public Service

Bobbie L. Steele was a leader in many groups. She was the president of the National Association of Black County Officials. She also chaired a committee for the National Association of County Officials. This committee focused on retirement savings plans.

She was also a member of several important organizations. These included the National Council of Negro Women and the League of Women Voters. She was also part of Lake Shore Links, Incorporated. She was a member of the United Missionary Baptist Church too.

Making a Difference as Commissioner

In 1986, Bobbie L. Steele decided to try something new. The late Mayor Harold Washington encouraged her to run for office. She successfully ran for the Cook County Board of Commissioners.

She achieved many important things as a commissioner. She helped create a rule for county purchases. This rule set a goal for businesses owned by minorities and women to get county contracts. It aimed for 25% participation for minority-owned businesses. It also aimed for 10% for women-owned businesses. She also helped create rules about human rights and ethics for Cook County.

Steele also introduced the idea to rename Cook County Hospital. It was renamed after former board president John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital. Early in her career, she had a vision for a daycare center. This center would be for county employees' children. Today, this daycare center is open and helps many families.

More recently, Steele started the Cook County Re-Entry Employment Project. This project helps people who have been in jail find jobs. It shows that people can succeed if they have a chance to work. This program helps adults who are first-time, non-violent offenders. It gives them jobs through the Cook County government.

Bobbie L. Steele is the longest-serving African American woman in Cook County's history. She was also the only woman to lead the Finance Committee. This committee is part of the Forest Preserve District of Chicago. She also led committees for the Department of Corrections, Education, and other important areas.

In 1993, Steele was honored for her achievements. She was inducted into the Chicago Women's Hall of Fame.

Becoming Cook County President

Bobbie L. Steele became the interim Cook County Board President in 2006. This happened after the former president, John Stroger, became ill. Her term as president started on August 1, 2006. It ended on December 4, 2006.

This made her the first female Cook County Board President. After her term, she decided to retire. John Stroger's son, Todd Stroger, took over as president after winning the election.

Her Personal Life

Commissioner Steele is married to Robert. They have seven children and thirteen grandchildren.