John F Kirby Takes the Helm as Director of UChicagos Institute of Politics
John F. Kirby has been named the new director of the University of Chicago’s Institute of Politics (IOP), with his appointment effective from November 15, 2023. Kirby, a retired rear admiral in the U.S. Navy, brings extensive experience from nearly three decades of military service and government roles spanning the administrations of six U.S. presidents from both major parties.
Kirby’s Background and Experience
Prior to this role, Kirby served as the White House National Security Communications Advisor, where he dealt with foreign and defense policy issues from 2022 to 2025. Before that, he was the chief spokesman for the Secretary of Defense and led public affairs for the U.S. State Department.
In a joint message to the UChicago community, President Paul Alivisatos and Provost Katherine Baicker commended Kirby’s deep experience and understanding of the importance of active civic engagement. They noted, “John’s leadership across multiple parts of government, his expertise in policy, diplomacy, and civic engagement… make him exceptionally qualified to carry forward the Institute of Politics’ mission.”
Mission of the Institute of Politics
- Founded in 2013 as a non-partisan center.
- Encourages civic engagement and civil discourse.
- Provides UChicago students opportunities to explore public service.
Kirby has previously interacted with UChicago students during their internships at the IOP in Washington, D.C. He expressed a commitment to nurturing student interests in public service. “As a military officer and government official, I saw firsthand the impact the IOP’s programs can have,” Kirby stated. He emphasized the critical nature of civic engagement at this time.
Successor and Future Goals
Kirby succeeds Heidi Heitkamp, the former U.S. senator from North Dakota, who directed the IOP from 2023 to 2025. Kirby acknowledged Heitkamp’s contributions, remarking, “She took the IOP to a whole new level, and I will work hard to live up to her standards.”
Educational Qualifications
Kirby holds a bachelor’s degree in history from the University of South Florida, a master’s degree in international relations from Troy University, and a master’s degree in national security studies from the U.S. Naval War College. He has also worked as a military and diplomatic analyst for CNN and served as a lecturer at Georgetown University.
David Axelrod, the founding director of the IOP and chair of its board of advisors, expressed excitement about Kirby’s appointment, stating, “He’s a thoughtful, proven leader whose lifelong devotion to service and commitment to constructive dialogue align with our values.”
