Christopher Doherty served as the mayor of Scranton, Pennsylvania, from 2002 to 2014, winning three consecutive terms. During his tenure, he was recognized for his leadership in local government, including being elected president of the Pennsylvania League of Cities and Municipalities in 2006. Doherty's efforts in urban development and environmental conservation earned him several accolades, including the Distinguished Community Service Award and recognition from the United States Conference of Mayors.
Beyond his role as mayor, Doherty has been an active participant in national urban policy discussions. He has served as a speaker and panelist for the Brookings Institution's American Assembly and Metropolitan Policy Program, as well as the Comparative Urban Studies Project at the Woodrow Wilson International Center. Doherty also contributed his expertise as a member of the steering committee for the Mayor's Innovation Project, a network dedicated to promoting efficient government practices among America's mayors.