(Chicago, IL) – December 2, 2010. Lt. Governor-elect Sheila Simon has selected top aides to staff her office once she officially assumes the post in January.
Simon has tapped Deirdre “D.K.” Hirner to serve as her chief of staff. Most recently a candidate for Congress in Illinois’ 18th district, Hirner has served as the deputy chief of staff for former Missouri Governor Bob Holden and policy director for former Governor Mel Carnahan, also of Missouri.
Hirner, a lawyer, also served as the executive director of the Illinois Environmental Regulatory Group in Springfield just prior to her congressional bid.
“I am pleased to have D.K as a member of my team,” said Simon. “We will be ready to hit the ground running the morning following the inaugural activities.”
Also joining Simon’s staff is Chad Hoosier who will help manage Simon’s transition to the Office of Lt. Governor, which is currently empty. Hoosier served as Simon’s political director during the general election campaign. Previously, he worked for the primary re-election campaign of State Rep. Eddie Lee Jackson (D-East St. Louis).
Hoosier and Hirner will be working with the Lt. Governor-elect to identify the remaining staff hires during the coming weeks.
“I am so pleased to have D.K. and Chad join me. I know they share my commitment to the people of Illinois and to building a brighter future for all Illinoisans,” said the Lt. Governor-elect.
The inauguration is on January 10 between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the Prairie Convention Center in Springfield. Simon will join Governor Pat Quinn for a public reception at the Executive Mansion Open House between 2:30p.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Gov. Pat Quinn
Lt. Governor Sheila Simon Taps
Posted by Ed Reynolds | March 30, 2011, 2:48 PMI ran into a friend of mine today – His name is Chuck Giger (husband of DK) When he told me you appointed her to serve as her chief of staff, I told him that was awesome and that she would do a great job.
Great pick!