WASHINGTON — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) took to the House Floor to recognize the late Dr. William Patterson, a remarkable community leader, lifelong Champaign-Urbana resident and dedicated associate professor at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) School of Music. 

During his career at UIUC, Dr. Patterson worked closely with the Moyer Boys and Girls Club, and created new initiatives for Black middle school, high school and college students, like the Hip Hop Xpress Urban STEM Lab. Dr. Patterson earned his Ph.D. in Education Policy Studies from the University of Illinois.

WATCH: Budzinski Honors Late UIUC Professor Dr. William Patterson on House Floor

WATCH: Budzinski Honors Late UIUC Professor Dr. William Patterson on House Floor

Budzinski’s remarks can be found below: 

I would like to recognize and celebrate the life of someone who served as a pillar of his community and beacon of light to the students at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign— Dr. William Patterson.

Dr. Patterson was a professor and community mentor who was dedicated to bettering the lives of the young people around him. 

During his time as an associate professor at the University of Illinois School of Music, Dr. Patterson worked with the Moyer Boys and Girls Club, and created new initiatives for Black middle school, high school and college students, like the Hip Hop Xpress Urban STEM Lab. His impact on our community cannot be overstated.

He was known for always being fully present until the work was done.

As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate Dr. Patterson and his work— work that we must honor by continuing to follow his example of leadership and excellence. 

May his legacy live on to empower and inspire young people to blossom into bright, civic-minded leaders for generations to come.

Thank you.

WATCH: Budzinski Honors Late UIUC Professor Dr. William Patterson on House Floor

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