Failed Chicago Mayor Gets Harvard Gig
One-term Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, who failed to secure re-election recently, is now set to become a faculty member at the prestigious Harvard University in fall 2023. This surprising move raises eyebrows and questions about the kinds of leaders America’s elite institutions are willing to embrace.
Despite losing her bid for a second term as mayor of Chicago, making her the city’s first one-term mayor in 40 years, Harvard’s prestigious institution has welcomed Lightfoot with open arms. She’s set to join the Harvard Chan School of Public Health’s Division of Policy Translation and Leadership Development department, focusing on “Health Policy and Leadership.”
Lightfoot will participate in the Senior Leadership Fellows Program, mentoring future leaders and collaborating with her distinguished academic colleagues. This isn’t unfamiliar territory for her as she previously taught courses on trial advocacy at the University of Chicago and Northwestern.
Dean Michelle Williams praised Lightfoot for her “strong leadership in advocating for health, equity, and dignity for every resident of Chicago.” Additionally, Williams applauded her efforts related to the declaration of structural racism as a public health crisis and implementing mental health services to libraries and shelters.
However, it’s worth noting that Harvard’s praises for Lightfoot were heavy on rhetoric but light on significant policy achievements.
As part of the Senior Leadership Fellows Program, Lightfoot will join the ranks of former New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio and other political figures. This move by Harvard continues to showcase its affinity for embracing controversial and failed leaders.
Harvard’s Misguided Embrace
By accepting failed politicians into their prestigious institutions, elite universities like Harvard only serve to endorse political failures and poor policies. This raises concerns for the future leaders who will be mentored and influenced by such individuals.
