Keynote Speaker in Chicago, IL
Former Mayor · First Liberian-American mayor in U.S. history
The Midwest's largest conference market — national municipal associations, public-policy programs, and civic institutions. Chicago's own debates on public safety and community policing make the Brooklyn Center case study directly relevant.
Short flight from MSP — day trips are workable.
Mike Elliott speaks on leading through crisis, community-centered public safety, environmental justice, pandemic leadership, and the refugee experience — told by the mayor who lived it, with the honest ledger intact.
Talks that fit Chicago
Reimagining Public Safety
Inside the Community Safety & Violence Prevention Act — what it took to pass landmark reform, what implementation actually looks like, and the honest lessons for cities trying to build safety beyond policing.
Leading Through Crisis
72 hours that tested a city: command decisions, community trust, and leading under national scrutiny after the killing of Daunte Wright.
Building Communities That Work for Everyone
Community-centered leadership — equity, belonging, and practical civic leadership in diverse, working-class cities.
Leading From Your Center
Value-based leadership — how to hold your principles steady when the pressure is highest.
Booking in Chicago — common questions
How far ahead should we book a keynote in Chicago?
Three to six months is typical for conference keynotes; municipal and community events can often be scheduled sooner. Commencement season (April–June) books earliest.
Does Mike Elliott charge travel fees?
Travel is billed at cost from Minneapolis–Saint Paul (MSP) — flights, hotel, and ground transport. Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro events carry no travel costs; mission-aligned community rates are available.
Can the talk be tailored to our city or organization?
Yes — every talk is tailored. Local references, your audience's specific questions, and format (keynote, panel, workshop, commencement) are worked out in a pre-event call.
Is a virtual or hybrid format available?
Yes — all talks can be delivered virtually to Chicago audiences or hybrid with an in-person room.
Book Mike for your Chicago event
Mention your Chicago event in the request — date, venue, audience size, and format all help him tailor the talk.