Former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot will be teaching a course at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, tentatively titled “Health Policy and Leadership,” just weeks after leaving office.
The school recently announced her appointment as the Richard L. and Ronay A. Menschel Senior Leadership Fellow, a role she will assume at the end of August.
The Menschel program, designed for individuals who have recently held high-level positions in government, nonprofit organizations, journalism, or multilateral institutions, provides an exceptional opportunity for mentorship and teaching to students aspiring to similar roles. During her time on campus, Lightfoot will hold regular office hours to engage with students, faculty, and staff.
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health’s dean of faculty, Michelle A. Williams, praised Lightfoot’s leadership during her tenure as mayor, highlighting her advocacy for health, equity, and dignity for all residents of Chicago. Williams noted Lightfoot’s declaration of structural racism as a public health crisis and her innovative initiatives to expand mental health services in libraries and shelters. Additionally, Lightfoot successfully guided the city through the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Expressing her enthusiasm, Lightfoot took to Twitter to share her excitement about returning to teaching. She stated her eagerness to share her experiences and insights from governing during one of the most challenging periods in American history with the Harvard community.
“I’ve always loved teaching, and the opportunity to get back to it is something I am excited about. Looking forward to sharing the experiences and perceptions I learned governing through one of the most challenging times in American history with the @HarvardChanSPH community!” Lightfoot said.
The Menschel fellowship has previously attracted notable figures such as former New York Mayor Bill de Blasio and former Boston Mayor Kim Janey. Lightfoot’s appointment is a testament to her leadership and the significant impact she has made in public health and governance.
Harvard highlighted Lightfoot’s impressive track record in leading a comprehensive, citywide response to the COVID-19 pandemic, collaborating with various sectors, including government, businesses, and community organizations, to protect public health and mitigate the economic consequences of the crisis.
While Lightfoot’s appointment brings recognition and excitement, it is worth noting that her policies as mayor did attract criticism. Some questioned her decision to get a haircut during the peak of pandemic lockdowns after advising residents to stay home. Additionally, she faced backlash for placing police officers who refused to receive a COVID-19 vaccine on unpaid leave.
