Before founding C&G Consulting, Cecelia Hylak-Reinholtz worked for Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan for nearly a decade. Since February 2003, Hylak-Reinholtz commanded a positive role in the legislative process and consulted directly with members of the Appropriations—Human Services Committee. As lead Human Services Analyst, Cecelia ultimately gained responsibility over all Illinois human service programs requiring oversight of nearly 50 percent of the state’s budget. Cecelia frequently participated in the budget-making process and earned the respect of every caucus’ budget negotiation team — Democrat and Republican alike.
In addition, Hylak-Reinholtz analyzed substantive legislation and, during her tenure, developed legislative measures and policy positions for Speaker Madigan and other caucus members. Cecelia actively engaged in negotiations and passage of numerous pieces of legislation — interacting successfully with many Illinois organizations and agencies as well as legislative and executive branch personnel.
Cecelia is especially proud of the significant bond she has created with members of the legislature and staff at state agencies who champion human services causes. By forging these lasting bonds, Cecelia Hylak-Reinholtz can easily cut through the red tape that many groups face when working with the Departments of Human Services, Healthcare & Family Services, and Aging.
Prior to her employment on Speaker Michael Madigan’s staff, Hylak-Reinholtz spearheaded office operations for the Democratic Party of Illinois. In coordinating the 2008 Democratic State Convention, Hylak-Reinholtz met directly with staff from the Democratic Constitutional Offices to formulate speaking arrangements; schedule volunteers; and communicate directly with vendors.
In addition, Cecelia helped organize the Friends and Family Program for Attorney General Lisa Madigan’s campaign in 2002. She also managed and directed various State Representative campaigns, including Representative Mike Boland’s successful race in 2006. From these opportunities, Hylak-Reinholtz has mastered the important political side of policy.
With a Master’s degree in public policy and ten years experience in both the executive and legislative branches of Illinois state government, Greg Cox understands of the legislative process. Greg’s expertise with health and human services issues dates back to the beginning of his professional career. Greg’s resume includes:
- Governor Edgar’s Office: Policy analyst for health and human services concerns;
- Senate President James “Pate” Philip’s Office: Legislative budget analyst; and
- Senate Minority Leader Frank Watson’s Office: Budget analyst responsible for over 50 percent of the state budget, monitoring all major healthcare legislation, and participating in budget discussions between legislative budget negotiators and the Governor’s Office.
Greg’s diverse background in Illinois state government provides him a unique perspective on moving ideas through the legislature. In the Governor’s Office and the Senate Majority Office, Greg learned the benefits of advancing ideas from a position of power. However, in order to successfully promote legislation through the Senate Minority Office, Greg had to build skills in developing concrete arguments and building bipartisan support for those arguments
Born and raised on a farm in Indiana, Greg is no stranger to hard work. Much like his days in the farm fields, Greg does not stop until the task is complete. Greg’s same work ethic and his valuable expertise in Illinois state government will assist you in accomplishing your goals.
The bottom line is clear. Cecelia Hylak-Reinholtz and Greg Cox know how budget negotiations operate and can quickly determine the best way to advocate for a budget item. Their proficiency in substantive legislation will provide clients with the precision necessary to successfully navigate the legislative process. Furthermore, their active participation in the elective process can help any client develop or enhance a political strategy.