Ann Spillane has forged a career as a dedicated public servant who makes a positive difference in the world on a daily basis. Ann began her legal career at the U.S. Department of Justice, and subsequently served as a Clerk for the U.S. District Court for the Central District of Illinois and the 10th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals. After a successful stint in private practice, Ann joined the Environmental Law and Policy Center, where she represented individuals and community organizations, worked with local governments, and addressed the Illinois General Assembly on transportation and land use issues.

Upon Attorney General Lisa Madigan’s inauguration in 2003, Ann became the first female Chief of Staff in the history of the Illinois Attorney General’s office. As General Madigan’s Chief of Staff, Ann helps keep the Attorney General’s Office operating as an efficient, public-oriented agency for the people of Illinois by overseeing a 670-person staff, 25,000 pending cases, 22,000 consumer complaints, and a busy legislative agenda. In addition to her demanding position, Ann has long given her time and leadership support to many pro bono and community service initiatives. She serves on Chicago Volunteer Legal Services’ Board of Directors, where she previously was Board President and Chair of CVLS’ Jane Addams Hull House Legal Clinic. Ann also has served on several other high profile board and committees and has worked with the Equal Justice Illinois Campaign in the successful effort to promote increased state funding for legal aid.

In her letter of support for Ann’s nomination, General Madigan highlighted the contrast between Ann’s central role in all areas of public concern with her studious avoidance of the spotlight. “Time and time again Ann has personally led our efforts on behalf of uninsured hospital patients, victims of fraud, besieged utility customers, crime victims and others in the community who so badly need help.” Today Chicago’s legal community proudly shines some light on Ann’s outstanding work.