Cyril Nichols is a Democrat who served as the Illinois State Representative for the 32nd District from April 2021 until his retirement in 2025. Born and raised in Chicago, he attended Wells High School, Colby College in Kansas, and Columbia University. He was appointed to the seat on April 8, 2021, following the resignation of former Representative Andre Thapedi. Nichols dropped out of the 2024 Democratic primary, paving the way for his successor. He currently serves as associate athletics director for City Colleges of Chicago. Notable achievements include sponsoring a law providing free state ID cards to formerly incarcerated individuals to aid re-entry into society.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Wells High School ; Colby College ; Columbia University.
• Political Experience: Illinois House of Representatives, 32nd District ; served on various House committees as of 2022; honored by the Illinois General Assembly in a January 2025 tribute resolution for legislative achievements.