State representative Stephanie Kifowit (D-Oswego) has been selected as the 2022-2023 Outstanding House Legislator of the Year by the collective Posts of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of Illinois. The prestigious award was presented to Representative Kifowit, who is an honorably discharged United States Marine Corps Veteran, during the Joint Opening Session of The State of Illinois Veterans of Foreign Wars Conference held Friday, June 9 at the Wyndham Springfield City Center in Springfield.
During the joint opening session, representative Kifowit was honored with an engraved plaque, commemorating her outstanding achievements and contributions to the well-being of all veterans in the State. The event gathered distinguished guests, officials, and veterans from across the state, all united in their support and appreciation for the sacrifices made by the men and women who have served their country.
“I am humbled to receive this esteemed recognition from the VFW State Commander Bobby Edwards and State Adjutant-Quartermaster Joe Bartley, who do so much for our veterans,” said representative Kifowit. “Supporting my fellow veterans has been a top priority throughout my legislative career, and this award reinforces my commitment to continue advocating for their rights, State benefits, and overall well-being. I am grateful for the trust placed in me by the veterans living in Illinois and remain dedicated to serving them and their families with the utmost diligence and respect.”
The State of Illinois VFW Outstanding House Legislator of the Year award is presented each year to an Illinois State Legislator who has shown dedication to serving the Veteran community. During her time in the General Assembly, Representative Kifowit has introduced measures to address and find solutions to issues such as Veteran suicide and Post-Traumatic Stress Injuries, in addition to bills ensuring Veterans receive the state benefits they deserve, protect victims of military sexual assault, have access to Veterans Service Officers and streamlined many occupations for employment after service.
Representative Kifowit extends her heartfelt gratitude to the Veterans of Foreign Wars Posts of Illinois for this esteemed accolade and the opportunity to join The State of Illinois Veterans of Foreign Wars during their Joint Opening Session. She served her country in the United States Marine Corps stateside during Desert Storm stationed at Marine Corps Base, Camp Pendleton California and overseas stationed at Camp Foster, Okinawa Japan. She was honorably discharged with the meritorious rank of Corporal (E-4). Currently, her son Samuel is stationed on the USS Ralph Johnson in the United States Navy in Japan.
— State representative Stephanie Kifowit