Nora Leerhsen

Nora Leerhsen
President of the Chicago Transit Authority (acting)
Assumed office
February 1, 2025
Preceded byDorval Carter
Personal details
EducationGeorge Washington University (BA)
Chestnut Hill College (MEd)
University of Chicago (MA)
University of Wisconsin-Madison (JD)

Nora Leerhsen is an American lawyer and executive who has served as the Acting President of the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) since February 2025, replacing Dorval Carter.[1] Leerhsen is the first woman to lead the CTA since its establishment in 1947.

Education and career

Leerhsen has earned a B.A. from George Washington University, a M.A. in Social Science from the University of Chicago, a Masters of Education from Chestnut Hill College, and a J.D. from University of Wisconsin-Madison.[1]

Leerhsen joined the CTA in 2014 and served as a project coordinator, senior advisor to the chief of staff, chief operating officer, and deputy chief of staff before becoming chief of staff in 2018.[1][2]

On January 31, 2025, CTA President Dorval Carter resigned after nearly ten years in the office.[3] Leerhsen became acting CTA President the following day.

References

  1. ^ a b c "Longtime CTA chief of staff Nora Leerhsen to take over as acting president when Dorval Carter Jr. retires - CBS Chicago". www.cbsnews.com. January 16, 2025. Retrieved September 29, 2025.
  2. ^ "CTA chief of staff to become acting president after Dorval Carter's retirement". Chicago Tribune. January 15, 2025. Retrieved September 29, 2025.
  3. ^ "CTA President Dorval Carter Jr. retiring at end of January - CBS Chicago". www.cbsnews.com. January 13, 2025. Retrieved September 29, 2025.