Harris School of Public Policy Impact Report

Letter from the Dean

Dear Alumni & Friends,

This year has reaffirmed what makes Harris distinctive: our shared commitment to rigorous analysis and respectful dialogue—values sustained and strengthened by the dedication of our alumni community. In a year that tested higher education, these commitments—and our belief that engaging diverse perspectives deepens insight—have continued to guide and ground our work.  

Our students brought those values to life in powerful ways. In the Harris Policy Innovation Challenge, the winning team, mentored by Harris alumni, put forward a bold vision for the city of Chicago: revitalizing downtown through culture, connection, and creativity. Their proposal—to repurpose underused infrastructure and harness the city’s cultural assets—challenged conventional wisdom, sparked meaningful civic dialogue, and earned the team the $10,000 prize. In true Harris fashion, all teams demonstrated that rigor and creativity are not in tension—they are essential complements in designing policy solutions.  

In May, we were delighted to welcome alumni from around the world back to campus for Reunion Weekend. From recent graduates to members of the Class of 1983, it was a weekend filled with conversation, reflection, and renewed connection. We marked milestones, shared stories, and celebrated the values that continue to define Harris: a commitment to evidence, a culture of inquiry, and a deep sense of public purpose.  

Another defining moment this year came with global recognition for one of our own: University Professor James A. Robinson was awarded the 2024 Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences for his pioneering work on institutions and prosperity. His work has set the agenda for a generation of social scientists. This was a moment of real joy for the Harris School, and we are immensely proud to have Jim as a member of the Harris faculty.  

Over the past year, I’ve traveled to meet alumni across the country and around the world—listening, learning, and sharing some thoughts on the road ahead. Again and again, I’ve been reminded of the power of a Harris education to shape lives and careers. As we prepare to welcome an extraordinary class of students this fall, the partnership and engagement of our alumni community will be essential in defining Harris’s next era.  

Thank you for your continued dedication and philanthropic support of Harris, and for embodying our mission in your work. Together, we are building a future where rigorous, analysis- and evidence-informed policies confront the challenges of our world. I look forward to all we will accomplish in the year ahead, and to partnering with you every step of the way.

Warmly,

Ethan Bueno de Mesquita

Dean and Sydney Stein Professor Harris School of Public Policy

The University of Chicago

Stories of Impact

The power of philanthropy enables the Harris Community to create meaningful change across policy sectors around the world. Here is a collection of stories showcasing how your support has strengthened the Harris School as a training ground for serious-minded and passionate policy leaders. 

Policy For: Alumni Spotlights

Hear from Harris alumni turning their passions into policy that shapes communities and drives impact.

Harris Reunion Weekend 2025

Reunion Weekend at Harris, held May 1–4, 2025, brought together alumni from across generations to reconnect, reflect, and celebrate the enduring spirit of our community. From thought-provoking conversations led by Dean Ethan Bueno de Mesquita, Professor James A. Robinson, and Assistant Professor Erin Kelley, to the heartfelt recognition of alumni achievements at the awards dinner, the weekend was filled with moments of inspiration and connection. The festivities culminated with a joyful celebration at Aster Hall, where milestone reunion classes gathered in honor of their shared Harris experience. Continued alumni engagement helps make this tradition stronger every year—we’re grateful to our reunion volunteers, attendees, and donors!

[Alum]inaries 

Generations of Harris alumni have advanced research, teaching, and public impact—thanks to the philanthropic support of alumni and friends like you. 

lu·​mi·​nary: A person of prominence or brilliant achievement.

Harris [Alum]inaries: Harris Alumni from around the world who are making significant contributions to the world of public policy.

Prentice Butler, AB'02, CLA'17, AM'20

Hong Zhang Durandal, MPP'16

Alaina Harkness, AM'06

Samantha Kent, AM'20

Sarah Claudy Lemonick, MPP’19

Kaleb Nyquist, MPP’19, MDV’19

Adal Regis, AM'22

Acknowledgements

Alumni and friends who give annually to Harris provide pivotal resources to drive our mission. Philanthropy supports student life and financial aid, faculty research and retention, and the centers and institutes that contribute to Harris' global impact. In recognition of our most generous supporters, we have established the Harris Society. 

Members of the Harris Society are part of a community committed to Harris’ future as a preeminent training ground for policy leaders. By making an annual gift at the Harris Society level, you can provide Harris with the greatest flexibility in responding to the needs of our community.  

Harris by the Numbers

Passion alone doesn't create impactful policy; it requires data and measurable results. At the Harris School of Public Policy, we treat policy development as a science. Our faculty and students bring a rigorous, data-driven approach to global policy issues. Here is a snapshot of Harris at the start of the 2024-25 academic year.