Debra Earl

Debra G. Earl is a Chicago native, born and raised on the south side, where she claims to be the greatest place in the world. She is married to her husband Gregory Earl of 38 years, has a daughter who works as an elementary school teacher, two grandsons, and one granddaughter. 

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Debra attended Martin Luther King High School in Chicago, IL, received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Chicago State University, a Master of Public Administration and a Master of Arts in Political and Social Justice Studies from Governors State University.

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Debra is very passionate about public service and committed to civic engagement, especially on political issues involving social justice and equality. Her activism and civic engagement dates back to the days of Mayor Harold Washington where she canvassed for his campaign. She also canvassed in Indiana and Wisconsin for President Barack Obama’s 2008 and 2012 presidential campaigns, has attended political conventions and rallies, worked as an intern for former Illinois State Representative Kimberely Du Buclet, and for United States Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL).

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Before her career in public service, Debra worked in the private sector for over 25 years with legends such as the late Mr. John H. Johnson, of Johnson Publishing Company. After retiring from the private sector, Debra became active in public service as a coordinator, mentor, and advisor. 

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She currently serves as the Program Support Specialist for Ladies of Virtue, a non-profit organization in Chicago dedicated to empowering Black girls in some of Chicago’s most underserved communities.

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Debra is a member of Pi Alpha Alpha and other honor societies, received the 2019 Model Administrator/Alumnus Award from the American Society of Public Administration, has served on various boards at Governors State University, and acknowledged for her community service. 

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Debra currently serves as a Youth Counselor and a Minister in Training at the Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church, and Chairman of the newly established Governors State University MPA Program Advisory Board. Debra has served with Ladies of Virtue since 2021.