The Honorable Lori Lightfoot was the 56th mayor of Chicago, the second woman, first African-American female and first openly gay person to ever serve in that role. In conversation with Ford School Dean Celeste Watkins-Hayes, she will reflect on her background and preparation for public service, the challenges she faced as mayor, and lessons about leading in crises. A proud U-M alum, she moved to Chicago in 1986 and held a number of prominent roles, including as Assistant US Attorney, President of the Chicago Police Board and Chair of the Police Accountability Task Force. During her term, she confronted multiple challenges, including the COVID 19 pandemic, public safety, the post George Floyd murder uprisings, the fight over good governance and anti-corruption efforts, expanding access to health care and mental health, and eliminating food deserts.