Cardiss Collins

Congresswoman Cardiss Collins was the representative of Illinois’ 7th Congressional District from 1973 to 1997 (93rd-104th Congresses) after winning a special election to succeed her late husband, George W. Collins, in the U.S. House of Representatives. Collins served on the Government Operations, Government Reform and Oversight, Public Works, International Relations, Foreign Affairs, District of Columbia, Energy and Commerce, Commerce, Select Population, and Select Narcotics Abuse and Control committees. She was chair of the Congressional Black Caucus during the 96th Congress. Collins fought for diversity and gender equity in the communications and media industries. Her other legislative interests included health care, gender equity in college athletics, and reforming childcare. She attended Northwestern University.