The Illinois Municipal League (IML) made history on Saturday, September 20, 2025, when Matteson Mayor Sheila Chalmers-Currin was installed as the organization’s first elected African American female president in its 112-year history. The passing of the gavel ceremony took place at the Hyatt Regency Chicago on East Wacker Drive, where mayors and municipal leaders from across Illinois gathered to witness the milestone.
Chalmers-Currin, who had served as a vice president on the IML Board of Directors since 2021, was unanimously elected by the membership to a one-year term. She became only the sixth woman ever to hold the presidency of the statewide association, which advocates for municipalities on key legislative and policy issues affecting Illinois towns, villages, and cities.
In her remarks, Chalmers-Currin reflected on the importance of the occasion, calling it both historic and deeply personal. She said she had long understood what it meant to lead with heart and responsibility, beginning with her role as the first-born in her family, where she was expected to set an example for her siblings. Those early experiences, she explained, laid the groundwork for the many “firsts” that followed in her public career—from becoming the first woman appointed to Matteson’s Fire and Police Commission to her election as the village’s first female mayor in 2017. In each of those moments, she reminded the audience, she had seen how breaking barriers was not only about personal achievement but also about opening doors for others.
The event at the Hyatt Regency drew municipal officials from across the state, creating a celebratory atmosphere as colleagues applauded her trailblazing role. Though there was no formal swearing-in ceremony, the passing of the gavel served as a symbolic gesture of trust and unity within the organization.
Support from state and county leaders underscored the significance of the election. Illinois State Representative Debbie Meyers-Martin described the moment as “an exceptional and profound accomplishment” that represented a victory for all women in public service. Rich Township Supervisor Calvin Jordan, who also serves as president of the Township Officials of Cook County, noted Chalmers-Currin’s “grace” and “flawless” governance in Matteson, saying the village’s growth and stability reflected her commitment to excellence. Cook County Commissioner Dr. Kisha McCaskill added that Chalmers-Currin had long served as a mentor and source of guidance for fellow African American women in politics, saying her record of accomplishments had become a benchmark for other leaders across the county.
Her family was also present for the occasion. Relatives joined her on stage, including her mother, who was described by attendees as “a sharp dresser” who set the standard for the mayor’s style and determination. The family moment drew attention from photographers and attendees alike, highlighting how Chalmers-Currin’s personal and professional lives have been intertwined in her journey of leadership.
Colleagues from across Illinois pointed out that her leadership extended beyond Matteson’s village boundaries. Over the past several years, Chalmers-Currin had become known as a voice for municipalities seeking greater resources and stronger advocacy in Springfield. By stepping into the role of IML president, she was positioned to expand that influence at a critical time for cities and villages grappling with financial challenges, infrastructure needs, and calls for innovation in local governance.
Her record in Matteson provided a model of what she hopes to achieve at the statewide level. The south suburban community has been recognized for its sought-after housing stock, diverse and growing business sector, and fiscally sound budget. Supporters credit Chalmers-Currin’s vision and careful planning for guiding the village through periods of transition while maintaining stability and growth. In her new role, she expressed confidence that she could bring the same vigor to the IML, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to delivering much-needed support to municipalities across Illinois.
For many in attendance, the moment was larger than one person or one village. It was about representation, progress, and possibility in municipal government. As one supporter noted, her election sent a message to young women and African Americans across the state that leadership at the highest levels of local government was not only possible but achievable.
With the passing of the gavel, Sheila Chalmers-Currin did more than assume a new title. She made history, carrying forward a legacy of barrier-breaking leadership and setting the stage for a new era at the Illinois Municipal League.
