From the Dennis Cook for Lt. Gov. campaign…
Illinois Lieutenant Governor Candidate Dennis Cook
2010 Republican Party Election
Endorsements of Cook County and Palos GOP Chairman Lee Roupas, and Cook County Commissioner and Orland Township Chairman Liz Gorman. Dennis was born in Cicero, Illinois and grew up in Orland Park. Dennis graduated from Sandburg High School and then went on to The Ohio State University where he graduated with a degree in political science.
Dennis currently serves as the President of the Consolidated District 230 Board of Education, which is the 7th largest high school district in Illinois. As President of the District 230 Board, he oversees a budget of over $140 million and more than 1,000 employees. During his time in office, Dennis has been instrumental in leading the Board from a $3 million deficit to a $4 million surplus in less than 3 years, while improving the quality of education.
Dennis has a long history of involvement in the Republican Party both as a volunteer and as a paid staffer. Dennis was campaign manager for Karen McConnaughay for Kane County Board Chairman (2003-2004); campaign manager for Richard Irvin for Mayor (2005); field coordinator for Joe Birkett for Governor (2005-2006) and campaign manager for Senate Minority Leader Christine Radognos bid for State Treasurer (2006).
Dennis has been heavily involved in organizing young Republicans in Illinois. He is currently the State Chairman for the Federation of Illinois Young Republicans. Dennis also served as the Midwest Regional Director for the National Federation of Young Republicans before recently being elected as the groups National Auditor.
Dennis is married. He and his wife, Amy, have a daughter, Maggie. Amy was recently appointed Deputy General Counsel for the National Federation of Young Republicans. The Cooks are members of St. Michaels Catholic Church in Orland Park.