Northwestern Hires Chicago Mob Linked Alexi Giannoulias As Visiting Professor Teaching Class in "Campaigning vs. Leading"

Northwestern might not hire too many evangelical Christians or registered members of the Republican party. But, now Crain's Chicago Business reports this :

Former State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias becomes Professor Giannoulias at Northwestern University this fall.

The banker-turned-politico will teach Campaigning vs. Leading, a course that asks, "Is our system of electing political leaders antithetical to good governing?"

"I've always wanted to teach, and I think it will offer students an interesting perspective," says Mr. Giannoulias, who as a visiting professor will primarily use the 2010 Illinois Senate race he lost to Mark Kirk as a case study. But expect mention of President Barack Obama's 2008 campaign, too.

Mr. Giannoulias also plans to bring in local and national lawmakers, pollsters and political consultants as guest speakers.

Generally, Northwestern wants Ph.D's teaching classes. But, the Ph.D-less Giannoulias is "acceptable" at Northwestern. Being a prominent banker for the Chicago Mob doesn't seem to bother Northwestern. No word yet on whether Michael "Jaws" Giorango will become a guest lecturer in class. Also , no word yet on whether Northwestern asked Giannoulias whether he or Obama bet with Giorango during the job interview for the Professor gig. Hat tip to The Chicago Daily Observer.