The Fels Institute of Government is honored to announce Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker, a distinguished alumna of the Fels Master of Public Administration program, as the keynote speaker for our Class of 2024 graduation ceremony. The event will take place on Sunday, May 19, at the National Constitution Center.
Mayor Parker exemplifies a lifelong commitment to public service and education—from her early days as a high school English teacher, to her election to the State House of Representatives where she became chair of the Philadelphia Delegation, to serving as Majority Chair for Philadelphia’s City Council, she has been a model for aspiring leaders. Most notably, Mayor Parker made history when she was elected Philadelphia’s 100th mayor and the first woman mayor of the city.
A devoted advocate for all Philadelphians, Mayor Parker has championed meaningful legislative and policy changes surrounding funding the public school system, economic opportunity, infrastructure, and public safety. Her goal as mayor is to “make Philadelphia the safest, cleanest, and greenest big city in the nation with economic opportunity for all.” Her perseverance, commitment to effective leadership, and drive to empower others demonstrate key qualities that are necessary for Fels graduates as they take their next steps as impactful public leaders.
We look forward to welcoming Mayor Parker back to the Fels community and celebrating our Class of 2024 graduates!
