Majority Caucus Whip State Sen. Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) was recently inducted as a member of the Jackson State University National Alumni Hall of Fame.

A 1982 graduate with a Master’s Degree in Sociology, Hunter expressed her sincere gratitude for the recognition by her alma mater.

“I am truly appreciative that Jackson State has chosen to induct me into their National Alumni Hall of Fame this year,” Hunter said. “I am proud to carry on and form part of the rich legacy of academic and career excellence of this exceptional Historically Black College and University.”  

The fourth largest state-supported higher education institution and the largest HBCU in Mississippi, Jackson State University was founded in 1877 by the American Baptist Home Mission Society. Jackson State ranks number one nationwide in respect to federally funded research among HBCUs.

Majority Caucus Whip State Sen. Mattie Hunter released the following statement in respect to the recent passage of legislation establishing regulations regarding hydraulic fracturing or “fracking”:

“I stand in complete opposition to this measure and the advancement of policy to regulate fracking in Illinois. I early on this session presented legislation establishing a moratorium to keep anyone from realizing high-volume hydraulic fracturing in our state and putting a task force in place to make sure we take enough time to consider this critical issue thoroughly. My colleague, Sen. Don Harmon (D-Oak Park), made a valiant attempt to institute such a moratorium with Senate Bill 630 but fell short. I commend my fellow senator on his efforts and stand with him in continuing my resolve that we should halt fracking practices and allow for a task force to complete concrete, comprehensive evaluation of this highly controversial industry moving further.”

House Bill 1715, the effort regulating the practice of high-volume hydraulic fracturing in Illinois, is approved by the General Assembly and advances to the governor.

Majority Caucus Whip State Sen. Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) explains her no vote on Senate Bill 1:

“I am proud of my fellow General Assembly members in making the tough but right decision to reject SB 1. We must and can fix our pension issues, but not in a way that breeches the constitution, harms our dedicated state workers.”

SB 1 failed with a vote of 16 to 42.

As an Alpha Kappa Alpha sister, State Sen. Mattie Hunter expressed her enthusiasm and support for Alpha Kappa Alpha Day in Illinois.

"Alpha Kappa Alpha is a true cornerstone of our African-American community," said Hunter. "AKA plays an important role in developing black female leaders and serving our communities. This sisterhood is a foundational part of our heritage as black women."

Hunter is co-sponsoring a resolution designating May 15, 2013 as Alpha Kappa Alpha Day in Illinois in recognition of the organization's diligent work and service to the community.