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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