#11 – Why people can count on strong women

Marianne Heiss invites Victoria Reggie Kennedy, who currently
serves as U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Austria, promoting
U.S. bilateral interests and priorities in Austria since January
12, 2022. Ambassador Kennedy works to advance and strengthen the
transatlantic relationship diplomatically, culturally and
commercially, while emphasizing the engagement of young people
and those from diverse backgrounds as well as the empowerment of
women and girls.





Ambassador Kennedy has deep private sector experience in both law
and business, as well as in the non-profit sector, in the areas
of civic education, the arts, health care and gun violence
prevention. Prior to her appointment as Ambassador, she was a
corporate attorney with an international law firm where she
advised clients and devised strategies to help them resolve
complex business problems and served on the Board of the Greater
Boston (Massachusetts) Chamber of Commerce. She also co-founded
and serves as President Emerita of the Board of Directors of the
Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate, a
non-profit organization in Boston, Massachusetts that educates
the public about the U.S. system of government and works to
inspire new generations of citizens and leaders. She served as an
advocate for expanded medical research and access to health care
for all Americans and actively promoted the passage of the
Affordable Care Act of 2010.





Prior to assuming her current post, Ambassador Kennedy served on
the Board of Trustees of the John F. Kennedy Center for the
Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., where she also chaired the
Education Committee. She was also a member of the Board of
Overseers and Education Committee of the Museum of Fine Arts in
Boston and was a member of the Board of Directors of the Greater
Boston Chamber of Commerce. She is also a past member of the
Board of the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence in
Washington, D.C. as well as the co-founder of a non-profit
organization, Common Sense About Kids and Guns.





Ambassador Kennedy grew up in Crowley, Louisiana and earned a
B.A. degree, magna cum laude, from Newcomb College and a J.D.
degree, summa cum laude, from Tulane Law School, both in New
Orleans, Louisiana. She has received numerous civic awards and
honors, including eight honorary degrees.





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Want to listen to something specific?


(0:00) – Introduction of Victoria Reggie Kennedy


(2:25) – Challenges and the Role of Women


(4:07) – U.S. and Global Elections


(7:23) – Constructive Dialogue in Times of Crisis


(9:49) – The Role of NATO and Diplomatic Relations


(12:24) – The Integrity of the U.S. Presidency


(15:00) – Reflecting on Life's Decisions and Holistic Approach


(17:06) – Challenges and Underestimation as a Woman in a
Male-Dominated Field


(19:24) – Overcoming Personal Crises


(21:06) – Gratitude, Life Values, and Giving Back


(23:13) – The Role and Strength of Women


(24:06) – Discovering Life's Purpose and Serving Others


(26:16) – Legacy of Service, Marriage to Ted Kennedy


(28:05) – Wish for More Civility in Public Discourse





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