Brett D. Kolditz | Washington, Illinois

Brett Kolditz defends the State of Illinois as an attorney with the Illinois Attorney General’s Office Workers’ Compensation Bureau. Their office also enforces insurance compliance, ensuring local businesses have the proper legal insurance to cover workplace injuries. Linda Lofgren describes Kolditz as “a very hard-working public servant who has spent his career working for the betterment of his hometown of Peoria and the State of Illinois. He cares so much for others and is totally committed to doing what it takes to help them.”

Kolditz remembers growing up wanting to be an FBI agent, inspired by television shows such as the X-Files and drawn by “the fancy flip badge and trench coat.” Becoming an attorney instead, Kolditz remembers the challenge he faced to keep faith in his abilities throughout college. He explains, “I often felt strong feelings of imposter syndrome, and at times it seemed easier to just settle rather than challenge myself. The bar exam was the culmination of that challenge…the fear that a single exam would determine my ability to work.”

Kolditz overcame those challenges and has made an impact at work and in the community. He volunteers with the Peoria Humane Society and serves as a musician for local churches and events. Kolditz is particularly passionate about his civic role involved with the CDBG Public Service Advisory Commission and is its longest serving member. Kolditz elaborates, “I have always kept an open mind and open ear to the various non-profits who have requested grant funding. It is interesting to hear how the various charities are working towards making Peoria a better community and it is rewarding to help facilitate those visions.”

Kolditz loves central Illinois for its diversity and size. He explains that he never feels “left out or forgotten in a sea of people” as one can experience in some big cities but loves that there are still ample opportunities for everyone regardless of beliefs or backgrounds.

Michelle Balzell, who nominated Kolditz, writes “Brett is an outstanding attorney, husband, father, and individual who has overcome great challenges that shaped him into the man he is today.”