A Visionary Leader for Cook County

Commissioner Bill Lowry is a distinguished public servant, accomplished attorney, and unwavering advocate for equity and justice. Serving as the Cook County Commissioner for the 3rd District, his career has been marked by transformative achievements in public policy, law, and community advocacy. Commissioner Lowry is a leader dedicated to driving meaningful change and delivering impactful results.

Public Service Leadership

As the Cook County Commissioner for the 3rd District, Commissioner Lowry has championed initiatives that address critical issues affecting residents in a region marked by both prosperity and disparity. As Chair of the Health and Hospitals Committee, his leadership has been pivotal in ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare. Key initiatives include:

• Cook County Birthday Resolution: Offering free mammograms and prostate cancer screenings during residents’ birthday months to promote life-saving preventive care. cookcountyhealth.org
• Annual Men’s Health Fair: Raising awareness about prostate cancer and other health issues while providing education, screenings, and resources for better health outcomes.
• Justice Reform Efforts: Advocating for programs that reduce juvenile and adult jail populations, promote reintegration, and lower recidivism.
• Expanding Healthcare Access: Enhancing mental health and dental services for underserved communities.
• Economic and Community Development: Driving initiatives that foster sustainable development, economic equity, and multicultural collaboration across the district.

Commissioner Lowry’s dedication to public health, safety, and economic opportunity exemplifies his commitment to improving the quality of life for all Cook County residents.

A Distinguished Legal Career

In addition to his public service, Commissioner Lowry has built a distinguished career as President and Co-Managing Shareholder of Nyhan, Bambrick, Kinzie & Lowry, P.C., a leading law firm in Chicago. His expertise in employer liability and workers’ compensation law has earned him:

• Professional Recognition: Numerous awards and accolades for his legal achievements.
• Thought Leadership: Publications in esteemed legal journals advancing his field of practice.
• Diversity Advocacy: Founding the Norman Amaker Scholarship at Loyola University Chicago School of Law to support students of color pursuing legal careers.

His commitment to justice and equity is reflected in both his legal work and public service.

Community Advocacy

Commissioner Lowry’s deep commitment to community engagement is exemplified by his role as the Founder and CEO of The It’s Time Organization (TITO). Inspired by the tragic loss of 15-year-old Hadiya Pendleton to gun violence, TITO works to reduce youth violence through:

• Job creation and workforce development programs.
• Summer employment opportunities for young people.
• Mentorship initiatives targeting youth in Chicago’s 3rd, 4th, and 5th Wards.

Through TITO, Commissioner Lowry empowers young people and addresses the root causes of violence with hope and opportunity.

Boards and Leadership Roles

Commissioner Lowry serves on numerous boards reflecting his dedication to education, equity, and economic growth, including:

• Chicago Children’s Museum
• Loyola University Chicago School of Law
• Lake Forest College Board of Trustees
• Bright Star Community Outreach

As Vice Chair of the Illinois Capital Development Board, he made history as the first African American in the role, championing access to capital for minority- and women-owned businesses.

Commitment to Equity and Economic Development

Commissioner Lowry has spearheaded initiatives that address systemic inequities, such as the Cook County Cannabis Development Grant Program, which allocated $3.6 million to support social equity cannabis businesses. By prioritizing communities disproportionately impacted by the War on Drugs, this program fosters economic opportunity and addresses historic injustices.

Personal Life and Faith

A lifelong South Sider, Commissioner Lowry resides in North Kenwood with his wife of 33 years, Dr. Cheryl D. Watson-Lowry, and their three accomplished children. As a prostate cancer survivor, he is a passionate advocate for early detection and health equity, exemplified by his annual Men’s Health Fair.

Legacy of Leadership

Commissioner Bill Lowry’s career is a testament to his dedication to uplifting communities, addressing disparities, and improving the lives of Cook County residents. Through his vision, integrity, and tireless advocacy, he continues to lead the 3rd District toward a healthier, more equitable future.