Archdiocese names director of violence prevention initiatives

On Feb. 1, the Archdiocese of Chicago announced the appointment of Philip Andrew as director of violence prevention initiatives, a new position for the archdiocese. 

Having served in several offices and capacities for the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Andrew will lead the strategic planning and directing of the archdiocese’s anti-violence initiatives through coalition-building efforts, increased charitable presence in distressed neighborhoods and development and revitalization of programs to help reduce the violence-causing cycle of despair, racism and poverty in Chicago.   

“I am delighted to welcome Philip, someone with years of experience working to address violence, to lead the archdiocese’s peace-building efforts,” said Cardinal Cupich. “He has known firsthand the impact of violence as a shooting victim and will help build bridges as we collaborate with people of good will to strengthen a culture of peace across the Chicago area.” 

Andrew’s career with the FBI spans 21 years. He most recently served in the bureau’s Chicago Division as a special agent with a focus on gun violence, counterterrorism, counterintelligence, crisis management, behavior analysis and covert operations. His responsibilities included managing high-risk hostage negotiations, directing the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force Investigations, training of special agents and serving as an adjunct instructor and presenter.  

Andrew also served in the FBI’s New York and Kansas City offices, where he focused on general criminal activities, gang violence, crimes against children, counterterrorism, national security, social media and crisis negotiation. In his time with the FBI, he also trained hundreds of law enforcement officers in de-escalation and crisis negotiation and was the recipient of numerous awards.  

Before joining the FBI, Andrew served as assistant general counsel of the Chicago Housing Authority, one the largest public housing entities in the country. Previously, Andrew was the executive director for the Illinois Council Against Handgun Violence, Inc.