Michael Best Strategies is pleased to announce that Aaron Harris has been promoted to Partner. Harris joined the group in January of 2021, and he also maintains a role as Senior Counsel at the law firm of Michael Best & Friedrich LLP.
“Aaron’s deep knowledge of GR issues coupled with his understanding of how to appropriately navigate matters related to the law truly sets him apart from others,” said Rob Marchant, President of Michael Best Strategies. “His exceptional dedication to helping his clients’ solve business issues makes him very deserving of this milestone in his career, and we are lucky to have him on our team.”
Harris serves as a trusted advisor in both regulatory and legislative matters, leveraging his background and connections in Illinois state government to help clients further their business objectives. Prior to joining Michael Best, Harris served as Legislative Director and First Assistant Deputy Chief of Staff for Legislative Affairs in the Office of Illinois Governor JB Pritzker.
Outside of maintaining his vigorous practice, Harris dedicates much of his time serving in board roles including as a Board Member for The Civic Foundation, the Center for Conflict Resolution and The Gordon Foundation for Kids, a nonprofit organization that supports children and families, especially those involved in the child welfare system, or at risk of becoming involved, with professional and personal development initiatives. He is also a member of the University of Illinois College of Law Alumni Board.
Harris was honored by Crain’s Chicago Business in the 2021 Notable Black Leaders & Executives list. Additionally, he was named a 2021 Fellow with the IMPACT Leadership Development Fellowship at Chicago Urban League, a rigorous program that provides advancement opportunities for Black professionals while building a more diverse channel of leaders throughout Chicago.
Harris also co-founded Michael Best Strategies’ Public Policy Internship in partnership with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to create a program that offers an educational and supportive experience for students to gain exposure to public policy and government affairs.
Harris earned his J.D. from the University of Illinois and his B.A., magna cum laude, from Morehouse College.