Dls Policy Solutions

DLS Policy Solutions is a women owned, certified Disadvantaged Small Business, with a specialization in impact consulting, relating to crisis management, government,community relations and corporate relations as well as strategic giving. Susan Leonis’ early dedication to service led her to major appointments in Illinois Governors' offices. She gained knowledge and contacts across all industries that today she uses to provide her clients with effective business problem solutions. Susan's 40 year career began in Illinois State Government Governor’s legislative office where she pushed forward the State's agenda at the national and municipal levels. She was elevated to Secretary of Transportation, the State's largest agency with a $4.9 billion annual budget for the construction and maintenance of Illinois’ roads and waterways, as well as air and rail transportation systems. Governor Jim Edgar tapped Leonis’ skills to build coalitions between Illinois’ diverse urban, suburban and rural municipalities and state government. During her 3-year tenure as Edgar’s liaison, Leonis led efforts to streamline state government regulations to assist local governments rebound from the 1991 recession. A native of Chicago politics, Leonis led bipartisan efforts as the Governor’s lead negotiator with the City of Chicago on issues of mutual importance to the state and Federal government with an emphasis on transportation and economic development. Her efforts were critical in securing state funds. It was the foundation of coalition building in government and the private sector that eventually led Leonis in 1995 to be the only woman in the history of the State of Illinois to be appointed by four Illinois Governors to serve on the board of directors of the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA). By utilizing our tailored approach, clients can expect access to our extensive network and resources, as we partner to form effective, customized solutions to meet client needs.