Institute of Politics

McCarthy began a career in law enforcement in 1981 with the NYPD, and later rose from his position as Sergeant to become the Deputy Commissioner of Operations in 2000. In 2011, McCarthy was chosen as Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department by Mayor Rahm Emanuel. As Superintendent, McCarthy has implemented crime-fighting and prevention strategies that were effective in reducing crime in other cities, including New York and Newark. As a result of his initiatives, 2013 yielded the fewest murders in Chicago since 1965. Join McCarthy in a conversation about his career in public service, the inner-workings of the Chicago Police Department, and his goals for the city of Chicago.

This event is open to UChicago students only.

This event is part of the "Chicago Style" series, in which the Institute of Politics invites a prominent elected official, policymaker, political operative, journalist, lobbyist or organizer to our historic home on South Woodlawn for an informal conversation about their life in politics and the issues of importance to them today. The format is simple: Our invited speaker begins the conversation with 10 to 15 minutes of remarks—and then opens the floor to questions. The goal is to give students a rare, inside glimpse into the political process and the lives of people in public service. The conversations are always off the record, and they're always accompanied by a delicious meal from a Chicago restaurant.