by Bridgette Gilliland, MSFS’16
On November 19, 2014 MSFS students, faculty, and staff welcomed distinguished speaker Ambassador Richard Armitage to the Walsh School of Foreign Service. The event, presented by The Georgetown Asia-Pacific Forum, drew participants from several different disciplines and provided great insight on a myriad of issues. The conversation was moderated by Professor Victor Cha, Director of the Asia Studies Program.
Ambassador Armitage shared highlights from his expansive service in Washington and overseas. Key points included an in-depth perspective on American interest in Asia and the volatile relationship between North Korea and other regional powers. Students were encouraged to facilitate dialogue and directed many interesting questions to Ambassador Armitage. When asked about his perspective on the struggle for diplomacy in Asia Ambassador Armitage replied, “difficult issues can be resolved if there is good will on all sides.” This kind of candid, fluid remark was common throughout the afternoon. Ambassador Armitage was also marked by his ability to share his humor and wit on a wide range of serious topics.
The reaction to the speaker was tremendous. Jenna Gibson, a second year MSFS student remarked: “It was fantastic. It’s not often that you get the opportunity to listen to someone so respected in the field and have the ability to ask him questions.” Another student, MSFS first year Sebastian Sarmiento-Saher, commented: “I enjoyed this talk immensely! It’s refreshing to gain insight from top practitioners and policy makers-and meeting Ambassador Armitage is no exception.”