Abstract:
In the hours and days following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks which destroyed New York's World Trade Center towers, New York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani distinguished himself, in the view of many, for his style of leadership. A combination of resolve, reassurance, courage, and compassion appeared to rally the city and the United States. Although not long before he had been under fire for aspects of his mayoralty, the post 9/11 Giuliani won national and international acclaim as a leader. This case recounts the details of Giuliani's response such that students of effective public leadership can analyze both Giuliani's decisions and style as examples. The case combines a written account of Giuliani's career, his often-controversial pre-9/11 tenure in office, and a detailed description of his, and New York City government's response to the terrorist blows. The written case is complemented by a video exhibit that combines real-time footage of Giuliani during the immediate aftermath of the Trade Center attacks, as well as reflections by key New Yorkers on his leadership approach and its qualities. The case provides fodder for discussion of those personal and institutional characteristics which came into play during an extreme crisis management situation. These include Giuliani's personal and political behavior, his heroes and role models, as well as New York City's emergency management system and how it was deployed.
Learning Objective:
This case recounts the details of Giuliani's response such that students of effective public leadership can analyze both Giuliani's decisions and style as examples. The case provides fodder for discussion of those personal and institutional characteristics which came into play during an extreme crisis management situation.
