Gov. Blagojevich names Bob Greenlee as state's new deputy governor; thanks Sheila Nix for her years of service

[June 10, 2008]  CHICAGO -- Gov. Rod R. Blagojevich named Bob Greenlee as deputy governor, effective June 9. Greenlee will replace current Deputy Governor Sheila Nix when she concludes her four-year tenure with the administration at the end of the week.

"Sheila Nix is one of the most dedicated and capable people I know. I want to thank her for all her hard work over the years and for helping steer important initiatives like expanding health care for Illinoisans and providing all seniors in Illinois with free public transportation. I look forward to working with Bob Greenlee. I know he has the expertise and commitment to the public to help us keep Illinois heading in the right direction," said Blagojevich.

Greenlee will be based in Chicago and will oversee the administration's policy and legislative affairs efforts. Greenlee previously worked as the deputy chief of staff for the state's infrastructure agencies and as the deputy director of the governor's Office of Management and Budget. Greenlee also worked as a lawyer in private practice in Chicago before joining the state. He earned his undergraduate degree from Yale University and received his law degree from the University of Chicago Law School.

"I am looking forward to the challenges ahead," said Greenlee. "Illinois, like states across the country, is experiencing an economic slowdown that impacts families and businesses statewide. Governor Blagojevich is keenly aware of the important role the state can play in helping families and stimulating the economy. I'm excited to have the opportunity to help him achieve his goals for the people of our state."

"I am very grateful to have worked with Governor Blagojevich all of these years. As I look back, it's rewarding to know that the time I spent helping develop and implement the governor's agenda will have a very direct, lasting and meaningful impact on people's lives. It's been a privilege to be a part of this administration," said Sheila Nix.

Before joining the administration, Nix served as chief of staff to Sen. Bill Nelson of Florida from 2000 to 2003. From 1992 to 1999, Nix served in Sen. Bob Kerrey's administration as chief of staff and legislative director. She also worked on Bob Kerrey's presidential campaign in 1991 and 1992. Nix earned a bachelor's degree from Creighton University and later her law degree from the University of Chicago Law School.

[Text from file received from the Illinois Office of Communication and Information]