Student Strives for Voice in Local Politics

Senior Lucas Hawley ’16 of Tinley Park, Illinois is among 19 people interested in filling the position of trustee on the Tinley Park Village Board. Hawley is currently a member of the village’s sister city commission.

Hawley has enjoyed politics since an early age, an interest that led him to study political science and communication arts.

“Leadership means willing to put your neck on the line in the face of critics, and sacrificing your own personal and family time for the betterment of the community, while getting little compensation other than that of the public good,” said Hawley.

“My former professor Darren Zancan showed me throughout his classes and through his life experiences that you should take a chance at every opportunity that comes before you,” said Hawley. “Whether you succeed or not, you grow because of it.”

Hawley has worked for several campaigns, from school board to county board, from state representative to U.S. representative. He has also served two times as an election equipment supervisor. 

Hawley is a commuter student and has built quality friendships with other commuters. “These people are truly some of my closest and best friends,” he said.

He hopes to intern in Springfield and or for political organizations after graduation in May 2016.