The inspiration of george mitchell
It seemed only fitting that so much of the content of this website revolves around Northern Ireland, a place I first visited in 2023, but whose history, values, resilience, and creative energy have touched me deeply, informing both my professional and personal life. I had the privilege of participating in a Fulbright Senior Specialist fellowship at Queen’s University Belfast, arriving on campus just a few days after the unveiling of the pictured bust of the former Senator and peace mediator George Mitchell, immortalized in bronze during a three-day global conference the University hosted to mark the 25th anniversary of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement. Intended to act as an inspiration for students as they graduate and leave campus, there is so much we can all learn from Mitchell’s legacy. I can attest I have never been so moved by a statue.
As a lawyer, I share the Senator’s commitment to fairness, striving to do what is best for everyone, recognizing that all people have a right to opportunity, prosperity, and peace. These traits are hallmarks of how the Senator conducted himself during the difficult negotiations behind the historic Good Friday Agreement. Like Mitchell, courtesy, dignity, and respect for all inform the work that I do on behalf of institutions and individuals seeking to bring about positive change and overcome obstacles to innovation. I celebrate how far the people of Northern Ireland have come. I am in awe of the impact one committed person can have. And I will strive to help the people and places I am called to serve further their rights to opportunity, prosperity and peace.
Photo Credit: Janet Corcoran, Queen’s University Belfast, April 24, 2023