The state treasurer is responsible for investing state funds. That's it. But with Robin Kelly in the post, we fully expect the office's reach to extend well beyond its strict constitutional definition.

As a Southland resident, community development director in Matteson, two-term state representative and chief of staff to current Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias, Kelly has shown an unusual commitment to the Southland through leadership, legislation and new programs.

She views the treasurer's office as an opportunity to extend small-business loans, spur economic development, be a resource for entrepreneurship and secure strong returns on investments for taxpayers.

Kelly has impressed us for a long time. She works hard and stays above the political fray that so often blurs the mission of elected officials. She checks her ego at the door.

In Matteson, she worked for 13 years as community development director, promoting and unifying her community. In the statehouse, she worked on legislation to rein in the predatory loan industry, reduce home foreclosures and bring worthwhile state grants to her district for infrastructure and transportation projects.

In the treasurer's office, Kelly has continued her no-nonsense approach to public service. She has banned contributions to her campaign from banks and contrac-tors who do business with the treasurer's office - a first.

Kelly is endorsed in the Feb. 2 Democratic primary election over opponents Mark Doyle and Justin Oberman. The winner will face Dan Rutherford, a Republican state representative from Pontiac, on Nov. 2.