Michael Nutter

Michael Nutter graduated from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania in 1979. After serving as the 52nd Ward Democratic Leader until 1990, he was elected to the Philadelphia City Council, serving 14 years from January 7, 1992, to July 7, 2006. During his tenure, Nutter championed legislative efforts like mandating college student registration and introducing legislation in September 2004 to establish an independent Ethics Board. He also sponsored ‘The Clean Indoor Air Worker Protection Law,’ expanding non-smoking areas, and initiated a local bidder preference program for Philadelphia businesses on city contracts exceeding $25,000.

He chaired the Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority Board from February 2003 until April 2007. Nutter’s commitment to urban advancement culminated in his election as the 98th Mayor of Philadelphia, a role he held from January 7, 2008, to January 4, 2016. As Mayor, he launched comprehensive initiatives across public safety, sustainability, and education. In 2010, he introduced the ‘PhillyRising Collaborative’ to address crime and disorder, while also initiating the Mayor’s Office of Reintegration Services for Ex-offenders (RISE).

His efforts to reduce youth violence led to the creation of Cities United in 2011. Environmentally, Mayor Nutter unveiled ‘Greenworks’ in 2009, a plan targeting a greener Philadelphia by 2015. In 2012, he signed a bill mandating energy and water usage benchmarking for large commercial buildings. He established the Mayor’s Office of Education in 2008 and the Philadelphia Education Supplies Fund in 2013.

Currently, Michael Nutter serves as the distinguished David N. Dinkins Professor of Professional Practice in Urban and Public Affairs at Columbia University, sharing his extensive knowledge in urban development and governance. His career highlights a dedication to fostering sustainable and equitable communities, establishing him as a sought-after voice on urban policy, municipal innovation, and leadership.