“With the earthquake in Haiti, the embassy there was one of the few buildings that was basically untouched. We had a structurally sound building and that was a big success. That was a prime example of why the U.S. embassy is there, to help the host country rebuild, and they’re still serving that function.”
“There is no such thing as a slow day and the work itself is fascinating. There is no component of international relations that doesn’t depend on the State Department. So there’s a weighty responsibility there. You are, for all intents and purposes, America, to them.”
“I certainly do my best to represent the United States overseas, to empower people so that they themselves begin to demand more from their political leadership. What you are able to draw from this experience is so rewarding, it really does enrich you as a person.”