Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi Discusses Personal Journey Into Public Service at Southern Illinois University’s Simmons Law School Lesar Lecture Series

CARBONDALE, IL – Tonight, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) participated in the Hiram H. Lesar Distinguished Lecture Series at the Simmons Law School on the campus of Southern Illinois University. During his remarks, Congressman Krishnamoorthi discussed his personal story from his upbringing in Peoria to his public service in the Illinois state government and representing the 8th Congressional District in the United States Congress.

“I firmly believe there is no greater calling than public service, and it was an honor to discuss my background and how it has shaped my approach to policy-making at Southern Illinois University Simmons School of Law during the Hiram H. Lesar Distinguished Lecture Series,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. “Advocating for the rights of others—whether in the courtroom or the halls of power—is one of the most meaningful ways to ensure future generations have even greater opportunities to thrive than we did. Meeting so many talented and dedicated students was inspiring, and I am confident the future of our state and its legal system are in talented, dedicated hands.”

The Hiram H. Lesar Distinguished Lecture Series, established in 1992, has featured leaders and professionals dedicated to fighting for civil rights and individual liberties. Lesar, who served as dean of the law school from 1972 to 1980, continued to serve as a professor within the law school until his death in 1997. Lesar also served as the president of the university in an interim and acting capacity in 1974 and again from 1980 to 1982. Congressman Krishnamoorthi’s speech was the 27th lecture in the series.