Nikki Labaschin worked with the Civic Consulting Alliance team this summer as a Fellow from
Crowe LLP.
What project work were you involved in during your time at the Civic Consulting Alliance?
Nikki Labaschin:
I worked with the Mayor’s office to create recommendations for the Chicago Police Department’s (CPD) newly formed Audit Department and Risk Manager role. My team and I conducted interviews across sectors, departments, and academic institutions to provide best practice research and recommendations to assist risk management functions across the city.
What will you take away from your time at Civic Consulting Alliance?
NL:
Working here reminded me how vital it is to work with a diverse group of professionals. The different types of experience on Civic Consulting Alliance’s team, from both the private and public sector, enabled us to tackle large problems across the city in a more effective and efficient way.
What was your most memorable experience during your time at Civic Consulting Alliance?
NL:
In working with the City and the Chicago Police Department, I was really impressed by the willingness of public safety organizations from across the country to share their experiences and insights candidly with us. For example, an expert from Seattle shared with us what type of dashboard technologies are being utilized by the city's police department to better inform the public.
How has your time at Civic Consulting Alliance helped you develop professionally?
NL:
My time here was one of the most stimulating experiences of my professional career. Civic Consulting Alliance provides its fellows and employees with a tremendous amount of developmental opportunities. From networking to speakers to feedback, I was constantly learning. I walked away with more confidence in my ability to jump into a difficult project. I was also reminded of my unique strengths and how they translate well into complex questions and issues.
Civic Consulting Fellowships are full-time positions that last between three months and a year. In every case, Fellows are integrated into project teams for a unique professional development opportunity. Please visit the
Fellowships
page on our website to learn more.