Governor Pat Quinn announced Alderman Billy Ocasio would join his administration as a senior advisor. In his position Ocasio will work closely with Governor Quinn on an array of important social justice issues that impact communities throughout the state.

“I look forward to working with Billy Ocasio,” said Governor Quinn. “All of Illinois will be well-served by his valuable experience in public policy and deep dedication to helping working families.”

Alderman Ocasio has served Chicago’s 26th Ward for over 16 years. In January 1993, Alderman Ocasio was appointed by Mayor Richard M. Daley to complete the unexpired term of Luis V. Gutierrez, who was elected to Congress that previous fall. Prior to that appointment, Alderman Ocasio worked at various non-profit, community-based agencies including ASPIRA and LUCHA, organizations with long established roots in the community. Here he developed his skills and education in the fields of affordable housing, youth programs, and economic development.  Alderman Ocasio also serves as the chairman of the Chicago City Council Committee on Human Relations.
“I welcome the opportunity to join Governor Quinn’s Administration,” said Alderman Ocasio. “He is dedicated to opening up Illinois government to all the people and I am happy to join him in that reform effort.”

From the moment he was first appointed, Alderman Ocasio’s priority has been the well-being of his community. He has fought for and secured new schools and educational facilities for our community; He created and implemented a 26th Ward housing development strategy that established a solid base of quality, mixed-income housing that encourages diversity and benefits all segments of our community. He was instrumental in the development of the Elston/Logan/Western commercial district that has brought much-needed jobs and services to our residents. And it has been his unwavering dedication to his people that helped establish a “pedacito de patria” here in Humboldt Park.

While Alderman Ocasio will join the Governor’s staff in early June, and will be conducting much of his business in Springfield, he and his family will continue to call Humboldt Park their home.[/lang_en]