Draft:Andre W. Allen

Andre is a proud native of Peoria, Illinois, and an alumnus of Peoria Public Schools. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies and Master of Science in Sports Administration from Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, Illinois. Currently, Andre is a doctoral candidate at Illinois State University, pursuing a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration. With over ten years of progressive experience in higher education, Andre has served in various roles at Eastern Illinois University, Illinois State University, and Methodist College.

In October 2022, Andre assumed the role of the inaugural Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer within Peoria County Government. Tasked with spearheading diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives across the county and community, Andre leverages essential DEI perspectives to drive progress. He led the development and publication of the organization's diversity, equity, and inclusion plan, emphasizing key pillars like talent attraction and retention, professional training and development, procurement from minority and women-owned businesses, and external stakeholder engagement for Peoria County.

Andre was elected to the Peoria City Council on April 6, 2021, and took office on May 4, 2021, representing District 4. His priorities include initiatives related to neighborhoods and infrastructure, business development, public safety, and enhancing quality of life.

In his spare time, Andre engages in various civic and volunteer activities, serving on multiple boards and committees, including the Police & Community Relations Advisory Committee, Peoria Public Schools Foundation, Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce, and Peoria Promise Foundation. He is also a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.



Andre's leadership and dedication have been recognized on numerous occasions. He was selected as one of 13 Elected City and Council Official Delegates to participate in "Local Government 2030: Action for the Future," a National Convening of Practitioners and Elected Officials. Additionally, he graduated from the Class of 2022 Community Leadership School, sponsored by the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce. In 2018, Andre was honored as one of Greater Peoria's distinguished leaders, being named a member of the "40 Leaders Under Forty" class by Peoria Magazine.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Andre finds joy in his family life. He is married to his college sweetheart, Jaleesha Allen, and they have three children: two daughters, Barbie Marie and Dream, and one son, Dreyton.