Learning about Bloomington Ward 9 Candidates: Thomas Crumpler

NORMAL, Ill. – A recently retired Illinois State University professor is now running for Bloomington Ward 9.  

At ISU, Thomas Crumpler prepared students to be elementary teachers with a focus on reading and literacy. He also directed an endowed literacy center for eight years at ISU. 

Crumpler retired as a professor in December of 2020 after working in the College of Education for 22 years. He explains why he chose to run for Ward 9.  

“The current Alderwoman who represents my Ward, Kim Bray asked me if I would be interested in running for Alderman. She had decided not to run and I thought it would be a great opportunity for me to serve Bloomington.”. 

Since then he is actively calling voters or meeting people in the community to encourage them to vote.  

Some of the issues Crumpler is focusing on include core services, the economic impact of the pandemic and Downtown Bloomington.  

“We’ve all seen an economic downturn under this pandemic. One of my priorities is working with small businesses in our community to make sure they are able to stay open,” said Crumpler. “To get the resources they need in order to continue to prosper and thrive as we move out of pandemic to come this  summer and fall.” 

He also says he wants to see Downtown Bloomington become more vibrant. He describes wanting more green space, walkability, and additional lighting.  

Crumpler says his ability to communicate and listen to voters makes him stand out as a candidate for Ward 9.  

“I’ve made over a thousand phone calls to people in my Ward listening to their concerns and asking for votes. I had a virtual town Hall in February that I had 40 people attend and I was able to answer their questions,” said Crumpler. “I’m on social media. I have a website. And of course, a Facebook page. And I really think I’m reaching out to voters to listen to what their concerns are in a way that my opponent just simply is not.” 

During this election season, Crumpler emphasizes the importance of being civil and treating others with respect.  

“I think as all of our elected city leaders should model that kind of behavior. That’s what our City deserves. And so, I plan to. I’m a very collaborative person and I’m committed to really treating people the way I think I would want to be treated,” said Crumpler.