SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel, a passionate advocate for quality education and former educator, has been appointed to serve as chair of the Senate Education Committee for the 104^th General Assembly.

“I understand firsthand the challenges both teachers and students face in schools and how essential it is to invest in our education system,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “I am committed to ensuring our policies reflect the needs of both students and educators to build a brighter future for all communities.”

Loughran Cappel entered the professional world as a special education teacher. In 2015, Loughran Cappel became a union representative for her school’s teacher’s union — AFT-IFT Local 604 — to support other educators and help them have meaningful careers. In 2017, she served on the Joliet High School Board where she worked to improve school safety and technical problems within the district.

Loughran Cappel served as chair of the Senate Appropriations-Education Committee during the 103^rd General Assembly.

“Since joining the Senate, I have been a passionate advocate for educators and children, and I’m looking forward to continuing my work in my new position as chair of the Education Committee,” said Loughran Cappel.

Loughran Cappel will serve in this position throughout the 104^th General Assembly.