Biography
Representative Kenneth “Ken” Dunkin
5th District
Representative Ken Dunkin, Chicago native, is a product of the Chicago Public School System. Currently, Dunkin holds a Bachelor’s of Arts degree from Morehouse College and a Master’s of Arts Degree from the University of Chicago.
Preceding his service within the state legislature, Dunkin held a variety of public service positions. He was a consultant for the Chicago Department of Health and Aging, a community liaison for Secretary of State Jesse White, and the Director of the Robert Taylor Boys and Girls Club. Dunkin’s Washington credits include working with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Senator Paul Simon.
As a state representative, Dunkin’s priorities are affordable health care, domestic violence reduction, state-wide economic growth, identity theft protection, and education. His committee involvement includes Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, Tourism, Appropriations-Public Safety, Financial Institutions, Insurance, Mass Transit, Gaming, and Telecommunications. In 2004 Dunkin was one of five American Council of Young Political Leaders delegates to South Africa.
In addition to his service as a legislator, the Representative remains active in the Chicago community. His memberships and affiliations include the Chicago Urban League -Metro Board, Grand Boulevard Federation, Near North Health Services Corporation, the Cabrini Green Legal Aid Advisory Board, Attorney Registration Disciplinary Commission, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., and the Lawson YMCA. As a board member of the Chicago International Film Festival, he sponsored a bill, which encourages film industry growth in Illinois by extending tax credits.
Dunkin has enjoyed his time as a public servant. He and his wife Yolanda are especially proud of their son and two daughters. His eldest daughter often comes to Springfield to watch her dad work.
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