IL SR1095

Mourns the passing of Wadell Brooks Sr., who died on July 4, 2022, and extends condolences to his family and loved ones.

Recognizes Brooks as the first Black student to graduate from East St. Louis Senior High School and a centennial graduate of Illinois State Normal University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Education.

Honors his 35 years of federal civil service including 11 years at the VA Medical Center and multiple positions at Great Lakes Naval Training Center, plus 2 years in the U.S. Army with 16 months service in Korea.

Acknowledges his community involvement as founder of NAACP Focus radio show, host of Community Forum television show, and past president of the North Chicago Rotary Club, NAACP Branch, and Chamber of Commerce.

Highlights his numerous awards including 1984 Lake County Urban League Business Person of the Year, 1996 Charles E. DeRivera Memorial Award, and 1998 Prince Hall Mason of the Year for the State of Illinois.