Catholic Law's Law and Public Policy (LPP) Program recently hosted an engaging discussion titled Staffer: Life On, Off, and After Capitol Hill. The event featured LPP Director Brian Svoboda in conversation with Jim Papa, a partner at the Global Strategy Group in Washington, D.C. With a wealth of experience in both public service and the private sector, Papa shared insights from his career, which included serving as a special assistant in the Obama White House and as a senior advisor to House Democratic Caucus Chair Rahm Emanuel.

During the discussion, Svoboda and Papa delved into the complexities of navigating a career on Capitol Hill and beyond. Papa reflected on his transition from public service to the private sector, offering a behind-the-scenes look at managing high-stakes, multifaceted challenges in both arenas. The conversation provided attendees with a unique perspective on the skills and adaptability required to thrive in roles that shape public policy and strategy at the highest levels.

Papa is also the host of “Staffer” (https://www.staffershow.com/), a podcast that features interviews with those sharing their stories of working on Capitol Hill.

The LPP program hosts periodic conversations with attorneys and professionals in the public policy field. Earlier this semester, LPP hosted Sean Cooksey, counsel to Vice President J.D. Vance and former chair of the Federal Election Commission.