About

Richard C. Irvin is the 59th Mayor of Aurora, Illinois. On April 4, 2017, he achieved a significant milestone by securing victory in an election that etched his name in history as the first African American leader of Illinois' second-largest city.

His groundbreaking accomplishment continued into his second term as he was reelected on April 6, 2021. He garnered 56% of the vote in a competitive three-way race. This resounding mandate underscores the unmistakable message that Aurora is experiencing unprecedented progress under Mayor Irvin's visionary leadership.

Mayor Irvin's journey is rooted in humble beginnings. Raised by a single mother in Aurora's public housing, he rose above challenges. He graduated from East Aurora High School and later joined the United States Army, where he valiantly served in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. His near-death experience on the frontlines of the Middle East ignited a deep commitment to serve his community upon returning home.

A trailblazer within his family, Mayor Irvin achieved academic success, earning a Bachelor of Arts from Robert Morris University and a Juris Doctorate from Northern Illinois University School of Law. He leveraged his legal expertise as an assistant state's attorney for the Cook County State's Attorney's Office and a Kane County State's Attorney's Office prosecutor. Additionally, he founded the transformative Weed and Seed Program in Aurora and established his private law practice in the heart of downtown Aurora.

Mayor Irvin's dedication to education extended to his role as an educator. He taught at his alma maters and served as an adjunct professor at Robert Morris College and Northern University. He also made a positive impact as a substitute teacher with East Aurora School District 131.

In 2007, Irvin made history again by becoming the first African-American male elected to the Aurora City Council as an alderman-at-large. Serving for three consecutive terms, he amassed a decade of impactful service, relinquishing his final two years to assume the role of mayor in 2017.

During his initial mayoral term, Aurora experienced unparalleled advancement in areas ranging from public safety, technology, and education to community engagement, small business growth, and economic development. The revival of long-vacant landmarks such as the Terminal, Hobbs, and Keystone buildings in downtown Aurora and the transformation of the former Copley Hospital on the city's east side is a testament to his leadership.

Mayor Irvin's accomplishments have earned him numerous accolades. The United States Conference of Mayors designated him the National Small Business Advocate of the Year. He was also honored with induction into the Northern Illinois Law School and Robert Morris University Alumni Halls of Fame. Aurora University honored him with an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters, recognizing his outstanding contributions. Additional distinctions include the Outstanding Service Award from the Illinois Black Chamber of Commerce, the Award of Recognition from the Philhellenes Society, the National Thurgood Legacy Award of Recognition from the US Minority Contractors Association, and his appointment as Chief Commissioner of the State of Illinois' Commission on the Social Status of Black Males.

Mayor Richard C. Irvin exemplifies tireless dedication to public service, leading with fervor, perseverance, and personal accountability.