Nora Leerhsen

Nora Leerhsen is an American lawyer and executive who has served as the Acting President of the Chicago Transit Authority since February 2025, replacing Dorval Carter. 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.
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.
On January 31, 2025, CTA President Dorval Carter resigned after nearly ten years in the office. Leerhsen became acting CTA President the following day.