On Thursday, January 12, 2023, the Civic Leadership Academy (CLA) inducted its new class of Fellows, including Lakisha McFadden (left), CEO of Conlon Public Strategies client Centers for New Horizons. The 30 Fellows are now linked with the University of Chicago’s Center for Effective Government at the Harris School of Public Policy.

The Welcome Ceremony, which Conlon Public Strategies Senior Advisor Joanne Howard attended, was held at the Chicago Cultural Center. Speakers included Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, Mayor Lori Lightfoot, Harris School of Public Policy Dean Dr. Katherine Baicker. Jermaine Harris, CLA’19, Lieutenant of Police, Chicago Police Department, gave the keynote address and encouraged the Fellows to maintain contact.
Congratulations to Lakisha and the entire new cohort!