Cheryle Robinson Jackson

Who is Cheryle Robinson Jackson?

Cheryle Robinson Jackson was appointed on October 2006 to be the first female president and CEO in the 90-year history of the Chicago Urban League.

Prior to her appointment, Jackson served in the administration of Illinois Gov. Rod R. Blagojevich, most recently as deputy chief of staff of communications and before that as communications director and chief press secretary, making her both the first woman and African American to hold the position in the state’s history.

After serving in Gov. Blagojevich's administration for 2½ years, Jackson resigned from her post as result of her disapproval of the governor's leadership. Before joining Gov. Blagojevich’s administration, Jackson spent three years in senior-level government affairs positions with Amtrak as vice president for communications and government affairs. She was responsible for Amtrak’s state and local government affairs and served as spokesperson in 41 states, often during times of crises, including the 9/11 terrorist attacks.