Elected: April 6, 2021

Term: May 10, 2021 - May 12, 2025

Biography: 

Judith Higgins Gilbert moved to Rock Island when she served as City Clerk for three years (2016-2019) before retiring from her distinguished career in municipal government and economic and small business development. 

Alderwoman Gilbert was the City of Colona’s Economic Development Director and TIF Coordinator for six years, as well as a Bishop Hill Village Board trustee for four years. Her accomplishments include securing funding and administering a critical road development project, overseeing development of two residential subdivisions in TIF districts, securing the first agreement for antennas on a city water tower with a wireless provider, creating and promoting a “shop local” campaign, facilitating and implementing a strategic marketing plan for a rural tourist community, and creating the first business incubator on a community college campus in Illinois. 

Originally from Chicago, Ms. Gilbert also managed a Small Business Development Center and was the co-creator and teacher of a New Ventures Business Planning graduate and undergraduate course at Roosevelt University where she served as a Visiting Professor. Ms. Gilbert has a Master’s degree in Adult Education from Roosevelt University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Loyola University. 

Ms. Gilbert is a widow who delights in the time she spends with her three grandchildren and her extended family.