The Closing Keynote Address is the capstone event of new student orientation experience for the Harris School.

The address brings conversations on timely policy issues and challenges through a dynamic lecture exclusively for the Harris community. The address challenges students to contemplate their role in complex global and social issues and craft a vision for the future of policy leadership and social change.

Hear more about Harris’ commitment to providing students with the resources and experience to drive effective social change and policy leadership, and examine personal and professional examples of commitment to rigor, fearlessness, and impact.

Previous Speakers

  • Trina Reynolds-Tyler, MPP '20 | Data Director at the Invisible Institute and Pulitzer Prize winning journalist | 2024

  • Xavier Ramey | Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Justice Informed | 2023

  • Brea Baker | A skilled communications strategist, influencer engagement professional, and activist/organizer | 2022

  • Jamira Burley | Head of Youth Engagement and Skills for the Global Business Coalition for Education | 2020

  • Samuel Sinyangwe | An activist and data scientist focused on ending racism and police violence in America | 2019

  • Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi  | 8th District of Illinois | 2018

  • Valerie Jarrett | Former Senior Advisor to U.S. President Barack Obama | 2017

  • David Axelrod | Harris Distinguished Senior Fellow, Director of the University of Chicago Institute of Politics & Former Senior Strategist to U.S. President Barack Obama | 2016