Meet a New Candidate
Christine Benson (D-Ottawa) has announced her intent to run for state senator in the 38th District and will be a candidate in the Democratic primary Tuesday, March 20. Benson wants to continue to serve as a leader for the constituents of this region after she retires as superintendent at Streator Elementary Schools at the close of this school year. “Throughout my career, I have embraced the responsibility that comes with serving the needs of others.”
Benson’s career has spanned 35 years in education, seventeen years as a teacher and the last eighteen years as an administrator. She has lived in the Illinois Valley for 26 years, the last 10 on the north side of Ottawa. “When we first moved to the area, we heard how this was a wonderful place to raise a family. We found that to be very true, and I want to return the favor by representing and working in the best interest of the Illinois 38th District. I will work with constituents to make our community the best place to live and work.” While working to improve the financial situation of the state is a priority, ethics and education are Benson’s focus. “I will bring my strong background in education policy coupled with a common sense approach. Ultimately, good education policy creates a healthy climate for attracting business and entrepreneurs to our region, and to create a better life.”
Benson has served as a leader in numerous organizations, including the Illinois Music Educator Association and the Illinois Education Association. She continues leadership positions in the Illinois Association of School Administrators, the American Association of School Administrators and the Illinois Association of School Business Officials.
Benson served on the board of directors for the Mendota Community Hospital and the Ottawa YMCA, and participated in the Ottawa Friendship House Capital Campaign. She is currently a member of the Streator Rotary Club, the board of directors of the V.O.I.C.E. Organization that advocates for education and serves on the board of directors for the Mendota Education Foundation.
Benson has worked through professional organizations and met with federal and state legislators to advocate for educational and economic issues.
“I look forward to using my experience to serve the people of the 38th District.”
Benson and her husband Rex, of 36 years, have two children, Stephanie who lives Ottawa, and Nick who resides in Chicago. She received her Bachelors, Masters, and Certificate of Advanced Study from Illinois State University and obtained her doctorate degree from Northern Illinois University.