Henry M. Paulson Jr. appointed senior fellow at the University of Chicago

Henry M. Paulson Jr., former United States Treasury Secretary and chief executive of Goldman Sachs, has been appointed as a distinguished senior fellow at the University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy Studies.

The five-year appointment will take effect July 1.

At Chicago Harris, Paulson will add an important voice to the University’s ongoing conversations about public policy and global markets, especially the potential for strengthening cooperation between the United States and China to address global issues.

Paulson brings four decades of experience in public policy and economic issues, culminating in his tenure as U.S. Treasury Secretary from 2006-09. Paulson also has extensive experience in policy and business issues concerning China, a country he has visited more than 70 times in his roles as a business leader, conservationist and public official.

His work at Chicago Harris will include research collaborations, speaker series, conferences, workshops, and other events and programs.

“Henry Paulson’s leadership experience in the public and private sectors will give Chicago Harris students and faculty invaluable insights into the creation and implementation of policy at the highest levels,” said Chicago Harris Dean Colm O’Muircheartaigh. “Through invited guest lectures and other events, Paulson will help the University of Chicago take a leading role in issues of international policy and economic development.”

Paulson said he was drawn to Chicago Harris for its interdisciplinary approach to a wide array of public policy issues. He singled out Chicago Harris’ leadership in and commitment to exploring sustainable and clean energy initiatives.

“The students and faculty here are focused on making a difference,” Paulson said. “I’m looking forward to spending time at the University of Chicago, a place imbued with the tradition of rigorous, analytical research.”

Paulson’s new role reflects Chicago Harris’ commitment to linking theory and policy implementation. It also illustrates the University’s continuing tradition of open debate among diverse viewpoints.

His appointment follows the news of former Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley’s appointment to Chicago Harris, adding to the growing roster of voices bringing public and private sector experience to the school.

In addition to his appointment at Chicago Harris, Paulson announced Monday that he is creating the Paulson Institute, an independent entity located at the University of Chicago in Hyde Park.

The newly formed Paulson Institute will focus on the growing relationship between the United States and China, and will seek ways to foster cooperation between the two nations at all levels. The Institute will examine critical issues affecting the two countries, including the development of clean energy technology, environmental protection, and cross-investment between the United States and China.

Paulson served under President George W. Bush as the 74th Secretary of the Treasury, and was a leading policy advisor on a broad range of domestic and international economic issues.

Before going to the Treasury Department, Paulson had a 32-year career at Goldman Sachs, serving as chairman and chief executive officer since the firm’s initial public offering in 1999. He is also involved in a range of conservation and environmental initiatives, having served as chairman of The Peregrine Fund, Inc.; chairman of the board of directors for The Nature Conservancy; and as co-chairman of its Asia/Pacific Council.