BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – Illinois Wesleyan University senior Scott Black was recently appointed to the McLean County Board, placing him in the rare position of being a college student and an elected official.
“I’ve always been passionate for serving the community and working with local issues,” said the political science major and history minor from Mt. Prospect, Ill. “After being approached by several community leaders asking me to consider running, I came to the conclusion that the County Board would be a perfect way for me to incorporate my passions.”
Black takes over the last year of the term held by Illinois Wesleyan Professor of Political Science Tari Renner, who resigned his seat after he moved from the county’s District 8. Black decided to apply for the open position that covers about 15,000 people on the northwest side of Bloomington. Unopposed for the seat, he was appointed in March.
With his appointment, Black will serve on the county Property Committee and Transportation Committee. He said he looks at the chance to serve as an incredible opportunity. “By working together, we can raise the standard of living for all the people in the community,” he said. “Government has the ability to bring people together and solve the problems that folks face on a daily basis.”