Toi Hutchinson facts for kids

Toi Hutchinson (born May 20, 1973) is an American politician. She served as a state senator for Illinois from 2009 to 2019. As a senator, she represented the 40th District. This district includes towns like Bradley, Bourbonnais, Kankakee, and Olympia Fields. Before becoming a senator, Hutchinson was the City Clerk for the Village of Olympia Fields, Illinois.

Early Life and School

Toi Hutchinson moved to Country Club Hills, Illinois, when she was nine years old. Her mother and grandparents raised her there. She went to Infant Jesus of Prague elementary school in Flossmoor. Later, she attended Rich Central High School in Olympia Fields.

Hutchinson then went to the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree, focusing on English and psychology. After college, she returned to her old high school to teach English. In 2014, she graduated from Northern Illinois University's College of Law.

Career in Politics

Toi Hutchinson worked for different groups before joining the state government. She helped the State Alliance of YMCAs. She also worked with the Chicago Southland Chamber of Commerce. In 2004, she joined a special program for women leaders.

After that, she worked for Debbie Halvorson, who was a politician. Hutchinson eventually became Halvorson's Chief of Staff. This means she was a top helper and manager for Halvorson.

In January 2009, Hutchinson was chosen to become a state senator. She took over the rest of Debbie Halvorson's term. Halvorson had been elected to the United States House of Representatives. As a senator, Hutchinson worked on several important committees. These included committees for Agriculture, Labor, and Transportation.

Hutchinson left the Illinois Senate in 2019. After she left, Patrick Joyce was chosen to take her place.

Running for Congress

In 2013, Hutchinson decided to run for a seat in the United States House of Representatives. This was for a special election in Illinois's 2nd congressional district. Many people supported her, including Toni Preckwinkle, a leader in Cook County. Mayors from Flossmoor and Kankakee, Illinois also supported her. In the election, she was one of 16 candidates. Robin Kelly was eventually elected to the position.

Personal Life

Toi Hutchinson is married to Paul Hutchinson. He works as a Senior Systems Engineer. They live in Olympia Fields with their three children.