A Rockford native, Matthew J. Simpson graduated Cum Laude from Southern Illinois University-Carbondale in 2010 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Economics and Finance. In 2013, he earned a Master of Public Administration with a concentration in Leadership and Public Management from Northern Illinois University. Simpson is a development professional, with 10 years of experience working in economic development and community development. He spent two years as the Business Development Specialist at the Rockford Area Economic Development Council, later worked as Community Development Manager for the Rockford Housing Authority, and Neighborhood Impact Manager with United Way of Rock River Valley, advancing the organization’s “Strong Neighborhoods” efforts. Most recently, Simpson was Economic and Diversity Procurment Coordinator for the City of Rockford, IL. Simpson has received a number of awards for his efforts as a leader and activist in the community, including the Rockford Chamber of Commerce’s “20 People You Should Know” award (2014), Rockford Register Star's "10 People to Watch," (2015) and Soul News Networks “25 Black Leaders to Watch” (2015). He was also a finalist for Crusader Community Health "Spirit of Caring" award (2016). Additional awards include the Soar Radio "Civic Leader" award (2018) and Rockford Register Star "Next Up Future Leader" award (2019). Today, he works as African American Business Development Manager, advancing efforts to ensure the state of IL is a place where all businesses can thrive.