[FiftyBelow]

4x4, I don't remember where I read this... I think it was the Herald? But Calgary supposedly has the most educated population in Canada (highest proportion of University educated citizens). Understandable considering the white collar industries and head offices that are predominant in the city. Take away the educated base and I'm sure the city is nowhere near where it currently is in terms of economic strength.

Back on the topic of mayor, I agree that political candidates cannot be judged solely by their academic background. There are a lot of factors to take into account. In assessing the "top 3" candidates, however, it is clear that Nenshi's educational background would - in my opinion - place him in a higher qualification than the other two. Just looking at his comprehensive policy proposals alone indicate that his education has clearly instilled the knowledge and type of thinking that is necessary for the job. Its not surprising considering the guy has a Harvard Masters in Public Policy.

But in addition to his academic background the guy has strong practical experience that is advantageous for Calgary's situation:
-He's worked years for a consulting firm that has "advised large telecommunications, banking, retail, and oil and gas companies in corporate strategy."
-He's had his own business that focussed on providing advice for various public, private and non profit companies in growth.
-formulated policy for the Alberta govt.
-He's written a book about how to manage cities titled Building Up: Making Canada’s Cities Engines of Growth and Magnets of Development .
-He was chairman of the EPCOR Centre for Performing Arts.
-Served on the leadership group that authored an assessment of Calgary's future.

Both his educational and practical experience all seem to indicate that he is very prepared for the job aside from his lack of political experience. He is not just some career academic that many people have tried to paint him as.